Kenya’s energy demand is rising steadily, reflecting stronger economic activity across households, businesses, and industries, according to the latest Biannual Energy and Petroleum Statistics Report for July to December 2025. The growth in electricity, liquefied petroleum gas, and petroleum products points to increased consumption, while ongoing regulatory reforms continue to shape a more efficient and sustainable energy sector.
Electricity demand grew by 8.25 percent during the period, reaching new highs as the country recorded a peak demand of 2,439.06 megawatts on 3 December 2025. At the same time, the sector expanded in capacity and access, with 182,195 new connections added to the national grid. This brings the total number of connections to over 10.2 million, a key indicator of improved access to power for more Kenyan households.
Households and businesses are also benefiting from cost saving measures introduced through regulation. Consumers under the Time of Use tariff programme saved approximately Ksh 971 million by shifting their energy use to off peak hours between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., where they enjoy a 50 percent discount. This initiative is encouraging smarter energy use while reducing pressure on the national grid during peak hours.
The report also shows a strong shift towards cleaner energy sources. Renewable energy now accounts for 80.60 percent of Kenya’s total installed capacity, with 2,957 megawatts coming from renewable sources as of December 2025. In addition, 78.79 percent of the energy supplied to the national grid was generated from renewables, highlighting Kenya’s continued leadership in clean energy within the region.
Solar energy continues to play a central role, with solar photovoltaic systems contributing the largest share of captive power at 326.7 megawatts. Bioenergy also contributes significantly, with an installed capacity of 163.8 megawatts. These developments align with the government’s push to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Kenya is also seeing rapid growth in emerging sectors such as electric mobility, which recorded a remarkable increase of 152.49 percent. This signals a gradual but important shift towards cleaner transport options in the country.
At the same time, demand for household and commercial fuels is on the rise. Liquefied petroleum gas consumption increased by 14.59 percent to 251,425 tonnes, while petroleum products consumption rose by 8.38 percent. This reflects the continued reliance on these fuels for cooking, transport, and industrial activities.
To support this growth while maintaining sustainability, the government has introduced new regulations. The Energy (Solar Water Heating) Regulations, 2025, aim to promote the adoption of solar water heating systems to improve efficiency, while the Energy (Biofuels) Regulations, 2025, provide a framework for the sustainable production and use of biofuels. These measures are designed to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and enhance energy security.
According to the Director General of the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Mr Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria, the latest figures demonstrate strong public uptake of energy services and highlight opportunities for sustainable growth. He noted that the sector is evolving in line with regulatory support, with both demand and innovation increasing across the board.
In the petroleum sector, Kenya continues to position itself for future growth, with a Field Development Plan submitted to Parliament as part of preparations for oil commercialisation. Additionally, eight key petroleum regulations were gazetted to strengthen governance and oversight within the sector.