Kenya has launched a Sh6 billion nationwide programme to establish electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, a move expected to accelerate e-mobility adoption, reduce fuel imports, and cut transport-related emissions.
The plan will be rolled out in phases, with Kenya Power spearheading installations in key towns and highways, while the government targets 10,000 public charging points by 2030.
Kenya’s EV Charging Plan at a Glance
The Sh6bn project will begin with the installation of EV charging stations in 17 priority towns and along major transport corridors from Mombasa to Busia. Kenya Power, the state utility, has committed to deploying 45 fast chargers across six counties, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, and Nyeri, within the first phase.
The initial rollout will focus on areas with high vehicle traffic, airports, shopping malls, and highway stops. The government hopes this visibility will ease “range anxiety” the fear of running out of battery that has slowed EV adoption.
By 2030, Kenya aims to have at least 10,000 public charging stations available, a milestone designed to support the country’s transition to electric transport.
The Financing and Scale of the Project
The Sh6bn funding reflects the high cost of building EV charging infrastructure. A single fast-charging station can cost several million shillings, depending on the technology and capacity. Kenya Power has already allocated Sh258 million to pilot installations and grid upgrades that will support charging stations.
The financing model is expected to combine government spending, Kenya Power’s direct investment, and private sector partnerships. Charging startups, fleet operators, and property developers are seen as key stakeholders in scaling this network.
Why the EV Charging Project Matters
Reducing Fuel Import Bills
Kenya spends billions annually on importing petrol and diesel. By supporting electric mobility, the country can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, improve its trade balance, and strengthen energy security.
Cutting Urban Emissions
Transport is one of the leading contributors to urban air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Wider use of electric vehicles can help Nairobi, Mombasa, and other cities improve air quality while advancing climate goals.
Creating Green Jobs
Building and operating EV charging stations will create new employment opportunities in construction, electrical engineering, maintenance, and related services. Local assembly of EVs and components could also emerge as the market grows.
Supporting Electric Fleets
Fleet operators including matatus, boda bodas, delivery companies, and taxis will benefit from public charging infrastructure, making large-scale electrification viable.
Challenges Facing the Rollout
Tariff Uncertainty
Commercial charging operators require clear electricity tariffs to price their services. Without a dedicated EV tariff or time-of-use pricing, private investors face uncertainty over profitability.
Grid Capacity Issues
High-powered DC fast chargers can place significant strain on local transformers and distribution lines. Grid reinforcement and smart charging strategies will be necessary to handle the increased demand.
Financing Gaps
Although the government has pledged Sh6bn, the private sector will need to play a major role in expanding the charging network. Investors will look for tax incentives, concessional loans, or subsidies to overcome high upfront costs.
Vehicle Affordability
While charging infrastructure is crucial, EV adoption also depends on the availability of affordable vehicles. Kenya currently relies heavily on second-hand imports. Without supportive policies for EV imports and local assembly, uptake may remain slow.
Standards and Interoperability
Different charging systems and payment platforms could complicate user experience. The government will need to enforce universal standards to ensure interoperability.
Stakeholder Perspectives
Kenya Power has positioned itself as both a utility and enabler, promising to install chargers and invest in the grid while inviting private participation.
Industry players, including EV associations and clean energy investors, have praised the government’s initiative but stress the need for speed in policy formulation. Key recommendations include:
- Clear tariffs for EV charging.
- Incentives for local EV manufacturing and assembly.
- Streamlined approvals for installing chargers in public and private spaces.
Short-Term Developments to Watch
- First-Phase Rollout: The actual commissioning of 45 chargers in six counties will signal whether the programme is on track.
- Tariff Announcements: The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) is expected to clarify tariffs for EV charging, which will shape investor interest.
- Private Sector Partnerships: Deals between Kenya Power, charging startups, and fleet operators could accelerate infrastructure growth.
- Policy Alignment: The government’s upcoming e-mobility policy and building codes requiring EV-ready parking will further influence adoption.
What This Means for Businesses and Consumers
- Fleet Operators: Should begin modeling routes, charging schedules, and cost savings from EV adoption.
- Property Developers: Need to integrate EV-ready parking and charging points in new malls, offices, and residential estates.
- Investors: Should monitor tenders and partnerships in the charging sector for early-mover opportunities.
- Consumers: Can expect improved charging availability within two years, making EVs a more realistic option.
Also read: Why Electric Vehicles Are Taking Over Kenya’s Streets
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many EV charging stations are in Kenya today?
Currently, Kenya has only a limited number of public EV charging stations, mostly in Nairobi and select pilot sites in major towns. However, the government has announced a Sh6bn plan to expand this to 10,000 charging stations nationwide by 2030. - What is the cost of building an EV charging station in Kenya?
A single fast-charging station can cost several million shillings to install, depending on the power capacity and technology. This explains why the national EV charging infrastructure project is budgeted at Sh6bn. - Who is funding Kenya’s EV charging stations project?
The Sh6bn project will be financed through government allocations, Kenya Power’s investments, and private sector partnerships, including startups, fleet operators, and investors in clean energy infrastructure. - How will EV charging stations benefit Kenya’s economy?
EV charging infrastructure will reduce the country’s fuel import bill, cut carbon emissions, create green jobs, and support local assembly of electric vehicles. It will also make EV adoption more practical for fleet operators and consumers. - Are electric vehicles affordable in Kenya?
Most electric vehicles in Kenya are currently imported and remain expensive compared to second-hand petrol and diesel cars. However, the expansion of charging stations, combined with tax incentives and local assembly, is expected to make EVs more affordable in the coming years. - Where will the first EV charging stations be installed?
Kenya Power plans to set up 45 chargers in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, and Nyeri in the first phase. These locations include high-traffic areas like airports, shopping malls, and major highways. - What is Kenya’s target for EV charging stations by 2030?
The government’s official target is to install 10,000 public EV charging stations by 2030, ensuring nationwide access to clean transport infrastructure.
