SERC

Makueni County possesses abundant renewable energy resources, including solar, wind, and biomass, yet continues to face energy poverty due to the limited utilization of these readily available resources. Further, the lack of access to clean, affordable and reliable energy sources limits economic development and heavily contributes to poor health due to overreliance on traditional biomass.

Despite this, the devolution of energy functions to the counties has presented several opportunities for Makueni. The County can now develop plans, policies, regulations, and institutional frameworks that promote clean, affordable, and sustainable energy use across the region. It is in this light that the Government of Makueni commissioned the development of the Makueni County Energy Policy.

The draft Makueni County Energy Policy was presented on 15th May 2025 to county officials representing various departments, including the offices of the County Attorney, Devolution, Education and Internship, Energy, Finance, Gender, Health, Lands and Environment, Livestock, Trade, and Youth. The presentation, led by the Chief Officer for Energy under the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Public Works, and Energy, outlined the policy’s overarching goal and its eight core objectives.

The overarching goal of the policy is to ensure access to sustainable, adequate, affordable, competitive, secure, and reliable modern energy that meets the needs of the people of Makueni County. The objectives include:

~To strengthen legal and institutional frameworks to promote clean, sustainable energy infrastructure development.

~To promote sustainable development and the use of renewable energy resources and related infrastructure.

~To achieve universal electricity and clean cooking access for all Makueni residents.

~To support national government efforts toward the development and operation of a sustainable energy sector and secure energy supply.

~To encourage growth of Productive Use of Energy (PUE), emphasizing renewable energy for socio-economic transformation in Makueni County.

~To promote adoption of Energy Efficiency and Conservation measures in Makueni County.

~To mobilize financing and resources for the implementation of energy projects and programs in Makueni County.

~To mainstream environmental and social safeguards, ensuring climate-resilient livelihoods in the energy sector.

During the presentation, Dr. Geoffrey Muthoka, Chief Officer for Environment, emphasized that achieving sustainable utilization has been a persistent challenge in Makueni, particularly in balancing conservation with resource use. He expressed hope that the new policy will provide clear guidance for future decision-making in the environmental sector.

Jane Makau, Director of Gender, raised concerns about how the policy will address time poverty among women, particularly the hours spent collecting fuel, a burden that, if reduced, could enable women to participate in more productive and income-generating activities.

This policy represents the Government of Makueni’s commitment to promoting legal, regulatory and institutional reforms, including leveraging private sector investment, and support from donor partners to address these challenges through scaling of affordable, reliable and energy access solutions for all.

Feedback from various county officials will be consolidated and incorporated into the draft policy. Following this, the team will prepare for a series of public participation forums scheduled to take place later in the month across the sub-counties of Kaiti, Kibwezi East, Kibwezi West, Kilome, Makueni, and Mbooni.

The development of the Makueni County Energy Policy is supported by the UK Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UK PACT), a programme funded by the Government of the United Kingdom.

Article written by Anne Njeri, Communications Officer, Strathmore Energy Research Centre

To spearhead the development of the Makueni County Energy Policy, the county convened a writing and review workshop on April 2, 2025.

The policy is being developed by an interdepartmental committee led by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Public Works, and Energy, with technical support from the Strathmore Energy Research Centre, the World Resources Institute, and UKPACT. Through this collaboration, the policy aims to align with international best practices in renewable energy and public-private partnerships.

Peter Nyamai, Member of the County Executive Committee, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Public Works and Energy, lay emphasis on the importance of reliable and affordable energy to spur industrial growth, business expansion, and socio-economic prosperity. Makueni Climate Innovation Centre, which will provide incubation, capacity building and financing opportunities to new, small and medium enterprises in the county, is one of the projects that will benefit from an accessible and reliable energy infrastructure that the Makueni Energy Policy will address.

The Makueni Energy Policy seeks to:

~Promote renewable energy by harnessing solar, wind and biogas resources

~Improve energy affordability and reliability

~Encourage decentralized energy solutions, such as mini-grids and off-grid solar systems, to ensure stable power supply in remote areas

~Foster public-private partnerships (PPPs) to attract investment in sustainable energy projects

Eng. Naomi Nthambi, Chief Officer for Energy, Makueni County, acknowledged that energy, being a key enabler, drives the growth of all other sectors, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 7.

She emphasized that developing the Makueni County Energy Policy is a critical step, as it will provide a clear framework for implementing the county’s energy plan, ensuring inclusive access to energy for all residents.

The Makueni County policy formulation is a road map for achieving its long-term energy access goals by carefully considering the objectives and strategies aligned with its citizens’ needs. Effective policy formulation leads to positive and lasting impacts, fostering progress in Makueni.

Makueni County remains at the forefront of providing affordable, clean, reliable, and sustainable development and economic growth, leading to essentially improved livelihoods for its citizens.

Article written by Anne Njeri, Communications Officer, Strathmore Energy Research Centre.

Persons with Disability (PWDs) are likely to depend on carbon-intensive energy sources, and face financial barriers in transitioning to cleaner energy, was a statement that remained etched in my mind. 

It was a surprise when Dr. Clement Sichimwa, Climate Compatible Growth (CCG) Zambia Coordinator, stated that in the National Energy Policy for Zambia, 2019, the word disability was challenging to find in the entire policy, yet globally, one-sixth of the world’s population live with some form of a disability. Despite the importance of involving people with disabilities in discussions around low carbon transitions, policymakers seem to miss this important but key demography.

It is with this understanding that the Climate Compatible Growth (CCG) and Strathmore Energy Research Centre, in collaboration with Loughborough University, championed a scoping workshop dubbed “Disability in Energy Transition.” The workshop brought together African partners from Zambia, Malawi, Ghana and Kenya to initiate discussions on improving disability sensitivity, awareness and advocacy in the decarbonisation agenda. 

“We think of disability as a silo, as an independent group, or an independent thematic area, and we seldom think about disability as an intersection of other aspects of our life, especially climate change and energy transitions,” said Dr. Gerald Arhin, Research Fellow, CCG. Cool, calm and collected, yet oozing with passion for Persons with Disability, a journey he continues to walk himself, Dr. Arhin emphasized the importance that all policies created by governments need to be inclusive, just and accessible for all.

The timely discussions among Zambia, Malawi, Ghana, and Kenya focused on fostering cross-country knowledge exchange on disability inclusion in energy initiatives. These dialogues aimed to identify common patterns and disparities, develop targeted interventions to bridge knowledge gaps and co-develop a research and action agenda.

To co-create needs interactions, the scoping workshop provided opportunities for the different countries to mingle, discuss and share experiences from their home countries through panel discussions and break-out sessions. The workshop itself provided valuable lessons on seamlessly integrating persons with disabilities into everyday life, offering practical insights and real-time learning experiences.

During the feedback session, Mawunyo Kuma Yakor – Dagbah from the Ghana Association of Persons with Albinism highlighted how persons with disabilities are not able to completely use the Smart Electric Metering System application independently that is used in various countries, including Kenya. Championing the independence of persons with disabilities is one of the areas that a just transition in the energy sector should encompass. 

Nina Akosua Efedi Okorafor, a member of the Ghana Blind Union, emphasized the need for a comparative analysis to map existing policies across African partner countries, highlighting gaps in disability inclusion and unique challenges. This knowledge will promote, influence and generate impact-based projects that bring up advocacy and awareness to ensure future policies reflect the voice of persons with disabilities.

As the sun set and ideas emerged, it was crystal clear that embedding Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion within future policy formulation is paramount to ensure we shift from accommodating Persons with Disabilities to actively empowering them in the just transition agenda.

Article written by Anne Njeri, Communications Officer, Strathmore Energy Research Centre

Can data combat climate change? The answer echoed resoundingly at the Kenya Climate Compatible Growth (CCG) Network Annual Workshop 2025, organised by the Strathmore Energy Research Centre.

From February 18-19, experts from academia, industry, government, and international partners converged to tackle this critical question head-on.  The theme? ‘Data to Deals: From Insights, Impact, and Investment Opportunities.’

Harnessing the power of the Data-to-Deals (D2D) framework, a proven methodology originating in Costa Rica and championed by CCG, participants explored how integrating policy, finance, and research can unlock climate investment potential. This structured approach analyzes successful strategies, paving the way for scaling impactful solutions.

Dr. Elizabeth Tennyson, Senior Research Associate at the University of Cambridge, set the stage, emphasizing the vital role of partnerships in shaping a climate-compatible future. She lauded Strathmore’s leadership in fostering multi-year collaborations and highlighted Kenya’s pioneering role as CCG’s first African partner country.

“CCG now has eight partner countries, four in Africa and four in Asia, as we have recently added Malawi and Nepal as CCG partner countries. Kenya was CCG’s first partner country in Africa and has been an excellent example of what success looks like throughout the programme,” she said.

Leading the charge for Kenya’s climate investment agenda, Mr. Martin Mutembei, Kenya CCG Network Lead Coordinator at Strathmore Energy Research Centre, emphasized the Triple Helix approach, where academia, government, and industry join forces.

“By leveraging insights, we can bridge gaps, drive innovation, and accelerate sustainable development,” he stated.

The workshop crackled with energy as participants delved into data-driven decision-making. Dr. Chinagorom Ajike, CCG Country Partnerships Coordinator, led the Kenya CCG Network Review, reflecting on 2024 milestones and emphasizing the need for inclusive innovation, embedded research, and local capacity building.

Success stories, such as Makueni County’s groundbreaking energy initiatives, were powerful testaments to how data-driven insights translate into impactful, sustainable investments. By harnessing real-time data, the county has successfully implemented renewable energy solutions, setting a benchmark for other regions.

Industry leaders from BasiGo Kenya and Practical Action demonstrated how businesses are leveraging data analytics to scale green investments, revolutionize sustainable transport, and drive Kenya’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Their innovations in e-mobility and clean energy adoption highlighted the crucial role of data in de-risking investments, informing policy, and accelerating climate-smart solutions.

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) convened to map investment opportunities and define critical data needs in areas such as Low-Carbon Transport, Clean Cooking, Climate Entrepreneurship, and Policy Pathways.

Eng. Boniface Kinyanjui, Deputy Director, Electricity, EPRA underscored the power of data in financial modeling and risk mitigation. “Data is not just numbers. it is the bridge to sustainable financing,” he remarked, reinforcing the role of real-time data collection and analysis in shaping energy investments.

Day Two delved deeper into the practical side of climate finance. Dr. Lara Allen, CEO of the Centre for Global Equality, delivered a compelling analysis of entrepreneurial ecosystems, cautioning that 80% of startups fail due to a lack of strategic support. She challenged academia to fill this gap and help innovators transition from promising ideas to viable enterprises.

Paul Mbole, Board Member, Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC) and P4G Partnerships Kenya National Platform Liaison, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to support climate entrepreneurs in navigating the journey from innovation to commercial viability.

Dr. Benard Alunda, Taita Taveta University, Dr. Alycia Leonard, University of Oxford, Tonny Kukeera, University of Manchester, and Faith Njaramba, Strathmore University Business School shared insights on Climate-Smart Solutions and Climate Adaptation Entrepreneurship, demonstrating how academia is turning climate challenges into economic growth opportunities.

In an era where climate finance is crucial, Emmah Kosgei, a Carbon Offset Expert, unpacked the complexities of Carbon Asset Development, explaining how carbon finance mechanisms drive sustainable investments.

Additionally, David Nyawa from Africa Minigrid Developers Association showcased how data is transforming the mini-grid sector, enhancing efficiency, scalability, and clean energy access.

The resounding takeaway? Data is the bedrock of climate action. It fuels informed decisions, unlocks financing, and drives policy transformation.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Churchill Saoke, Director, Strathmore Energy Research Centre, said the challenge now lies in scaling these insights into tangible climate investments, a mission that will require continued collaboration between government, academia, and the private sector.

“As the Kenya CCG Network moves into its next phase, Strathmore University remains committed to fostering impactful research and partnerships that drive sustainable growth. The focus should now shift to one critical goal; turning data-backed policies into real investment opportunities,” said Dr. Saoke.

Strathmore University, a leader in research and innovation in Africa, has officially partnered with Chemnitz-based move technology GmbH to advance cutting-edge solutions in green energy, artificial intelligence, and sustainable mobility. The two institutions have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the beginning of a strategic collaboration to drive innovation in Africa’s renewable energy sector.

Dr. Jörn Seebode, Managing Director at move technology, emphasized the significance of the partnership saying, “Strathmore University is a globally recognized institution at the forefront of research and education. Our shared commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability makes this collaboration a perfect fit. Together, we will pioneer solutions that not only enhance Africa’s energy landscape but also contribute to global sustainability goals.”

The collaboration will focus on key sectors, including renewable energy, sustainable mobility, and advanced software and AI solutions. Specific areas of cooperation include:

~Designing sector-coupled energy systems

~Developing micro-grids, with or without hydrogen integration

~Establishing independent power supply solutions for buildings, municipalities, and factories

~Planning charging infrastructure and hydrogen refueling stations

~Creating digital and AI-driven platform solutions

~Implementing education and training programs

“This partnership is a game-changer,” stated Prof. Izael Da Silva, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation. “By combining our research expertise with move technology’s industry knowledge, we are set to develop targeted energy solutions that address Africa’s growing demand for clean and sustainable power systems.”

The collaboration will prioritize project preparation, including identifying strategic partners and customers, developing project content, building business cases and securing funding.

The MoU serves as a catalyst for technology transfer between Europe and Africa, ensuring that research-driven solutions have a direct impact on industries and communities. move technology will support the implementation of projects from concept to execution, helping accelerate market-ready innovations.

Article written by Stephen Wakhu

The sun—always there, always blazing, flooding the earth with its golden rays. It fuels our weather, warms our days, and yet, despite its endless supply, remains one of the most underutilized sources of energy. Positioned within the Global Solar Belt, Africa holds immense untapped potential to lead in sustainable energy solutions. All it needs is a spark—just the right knowledge to unlock its full potential.

The Strathmore Energy Research Centre (SERC), in its full capacity, is igniting this spark. As a hub of excellence and innovation, and in its commitment to accelerating the adoption of renewable energy solutions, partnered with UK Aid, Innovate UK, Energy Catalyst, and SolarisKit to host the 2nd Cohort of the Fundamental Course on Solar Hot Water System Installation—a five-day intensive program designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to harness solar energy effectively. This transformative initiative brought together 28 industry experts in solar, electrical, and renewable energy from government institutions, private sector and academia, all eager to deepen their expertise and drive sustainable energy solutions forward. 

From the very first session, the course was an eye-opener and nothing short of insightful. Participants explored the core concepts of solar technology, its advantages, and how it stacks up against other renewable energy sources.

If Day one of the training set the foundation, Day two was the ultimate game-changer! Led by Ignatius Maranga, Electrical Engineer and Trainer at SERC, students got their hands dirty with a practical Solar Thermal Installation Guide. They dissected the mechanics of solar hot water systems, comparing different technologies, including Bosch Africa’s solar water heating system. But learning wasn’t confined to theory—participants put their knowledge to the test through an interactive quiz. With questions flying and minds racing, teamwork became the secret ingredient to success. Debates sparked, discussions flourished, and concepts clicked into place, proving that learning is most powerful when it’s collaborative. 

As the days unfolded, the excitement only grew. Day three was all about mastering system installation and design, diving into safety protocols, and understanding key factors in solar thermal system efficiency. The sessions were not just insightful but hands-on, bridging the gap between theory and real-world application. Day four took a crucial turn, focusing on regulatory compliance, documentation, and system maintenance—because building a solar system is one thing, but ensuring its longevity and efficiency is another. Participants gained the necessary knowledge to uphold industry standards and maintain systems for years to come.

Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for—Graduation Day! Day five marked the culmination of an intense but rewarding journey. Dressed in crisp blue sashes and beaming with pride, participants gathered at the Microsoft Auditorium to celebrate their achievement. The event was graced by industry leaders, including Titus Njenga, Commercial Manager at Davis & Shirtliff; Zacharia Lukorito, Director of Standards Development and Trade at KEBS; and Dr. Oketch, Director at EPRA, alongside Prof. Izael Da Silva, Strathmore University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation. Their presence underscored the growing momentum in Kenya’s renewable energy sector. With words of encouragement and invaluable insights, the leaders urged the graduates to become the “rays” of hope driving Kenya’s clean energy future. As they stepped forward, certificates in hand, it wasn’t just about what they had learned—it was about the impact they were now ready to make.

For our participants, the five-day course was well worth the effort—every lesson, every hands-on experience, every moment!

“This course was truly eye-opening! It was my first time working on a Solar Hot WaterSystem, and the hands-on training made all the difference. What an honor to be part of this class!” ~ Ivy Wangusi

“I hope what I’ve learned will open doors for me in the field and beyond.” ~ Andrew Kamau

To re-elaborate the university’s dedication to transforming and serving society, Strathmore University continues to play an essential role in changing lives for the better. Prof. Da Silva, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Strathmore University proudly reaffirmed the university’s commitment to innovation and impact, emphasizing the crucial role of education in shaping industries. With joy, he stated, “I see leaders right here—pioneers driving the future of #RenewableEnergy!”

A Grand Finale: The Solar Thermal Hub of Excellence

The highlight of the event? The launch of the Solar Thermal Hub of Excellence! a groundbreaking initiative set to revolutionize renewable energy adoption across Kenya, Rwanda, and Sub-Saharan Africa.

This Hub is dedicated to equipping professionals with cutting-edge skills in the installation and deployment of the world’s first flat-packed solar thermal collector, an innovative technology developed with the support of Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). By fostering expertise in solar thermal solutions, the Hub aims to accelerate the transition to clean energy, enhance energy security, and create new economic opportunities. This initiative is more than just a training center—it is a catalyst for sustainable development, empowering communities and industries with affordable, efficient, and scalable solar thermal technology.

With the successful training of the first cohort, held from November 11th to 15th, 2024, the second cohort in 2025 has even surpassed initial expectations. In total, the training has now reached 49 individuals—more than triple the initial projection of 15! Among these participants, 10 were women, marking a crucial step toward gender diversity in the renewable energy sector.

“The vision has always been and continues to be empowering participants with hands-on skills in Solar Hot Water System Installation. This hub is dedicated to expanding access to clean heating solutions across East Africa” echoed Faisal Ghani, PhD, Founder of SolarisKit, as he reflected on this significant milestone.

A Brighter Future for Kenya

Realizing the potential of solar energy isn’t just about education—it’s about transforming economies. Expanding the adoption of solar thermal solutions has the power to: create thousands of jobs in the renewable energy sector, lower household energy costs by up to 30%, and Reduce Kenya’s carbon footprint, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Article written by: Jemmy M. Kamau