Kenya’s New Energy Deals: Why Africa is Powering the Future
When most people think of Kenya, they picture safaris, wildlife, and wide open savannahs. But behind that postcard image is a country quietly becoming one of the most forward-thinking energy hubs on the African continent—and possibly the world.
From geothermal breakthroughs to green hydrogen ambitions, Kenya is betting big on sustainable energy—and it’s a bet that’s already paying off.
1. Geothermal Power: The Silent Giant 🔥
Kenya is the world’s 7th largest producer of geothermal energy, and the number one in Africa. The country gets over 50% of its electricity from geothermal sources—clean, renewable, and stable. Most of this comes from the Great Rift Valley, where underground heat is turned into grid power.
While other countries are still talking about clean energy targets, Kenya has already met and exceeded many of them. And it’s only just getting started.
2. Green Hydrogen & International Partnerships 🤝
Kenya recently signed a major deal with Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) to begin developing green hydrogen infrastructure—an emerging, clean fuel that many experts believe will play a key role in global decarbonization.
The goal? To make Kenya a hub for green hydrogen exports, especially to Europe and Asia, which are looking for clean energy sources at scale. This move puts Kenya at the center of a future trillion-dollar industry.
This is part of a larger trend across Africa: countries like Namibia, Egypt, and Morocco are also entering the green hydrogen space. But Kenya’s geothermal base gives it a unique advantage in producing it cleanly and affordably.
3. Decentralized Power = Energy for the People ⚡
Beyond the big national projects, Kenya is also a leader in decentralized solar and mini-grid systems, especially in rural areas. Off-grid solar companies like M-KOPA and d.light are bringing pay-as-you-go energy to millions of people.
It’s not just about power—it’s about financial inclusion, education, health, and opportunity. When homes and schools have reliable electricity, the ripple effects are enormous.
4. Clean Energy + BRICS = A New Kind of Development 🌍
Kenya isn’t (yet) a member of BRICS, but it is increasingly aligning with BRICS-style development: infrastructure-led, multipolar, and focused on long-term sovereignty.
With investments from China, India, and even Russia in renewable infrastructure and railways, Kenya is positioning itself as a leader in non-Western, African-led development.
This means new roads, new power plants, and new trade routes—without relying on outdated colonial aid models. It’s a shift in tone and power.
Why This Matters (For Everyone)
Africa’s energy future isn’t just an African story. As global demand for clean energy grows, the continent’s natural advantages and bold leadership make it a central player.
Kenya is proving that developing nations don’t have to follow the same dirty paths to industrialization. They can leap ahead—with innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.
And as the world pivots to new power sources, don’t be surprised if the energy powering your EV or your lights someday comes from deep beneath Kenya’s soil.
Want more stories like this? Follow my Africa Now series every Tuesday to learn how the continent is rising—and reshaping the global map.
