Kenya’s electric vehicle (EV) numbers rose from 1,059 in December 2023 to 4,193 by December 2024. This marks a 295.9% increase. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) introduced a special tariff to boost adoption.
In April 2023, EPRA set a charging tariff of Sh8 per unit for off-peak hours and Sh16 for peak hours. This reduced charging costs and encouraged EV use. Previously, users paid higher domestic or commercial tariffs.
Government incentives also contributed to the growth. These include lower excise duty, VAT exemptions, and better charging infrastructure. Kenya plans for EVs to account for 5% of new vehicle registrations by 2030.
EVs in Kenya range from motorcycles to ride-hailing cars, buses, and minibuses. Local firms like BasiGo and Roam supply vehicles to public transport operators. Despite growth, EVs made up only 3.7% of the 111,665 vehicles registered between January and September 2024.
Kenya ranks among Africa’s top three EV adopters, alongside South Africa and Morocco. In 2021, only 584 EVs were registered. Kenya Power has budgeted Sh258 million to expand charging stations and acquire EVs. Private sector players also invest in infrastructure.
Challenges include the limited number of charging stations. Efforts are underway to install stations every 25 kilometers on highways. The government is transitioning its fleet to EVs, starting with security agencies.
The International Energy Agency highlights EVs’ role in reducing carbon emissions. However, high costs and limited infrastructure slow adoption in developing countries.
Kenya’s progress reflects its commitment to sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
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