Kenya’s electricity consumption has reached an all-time high, with peak demand hitting 2,316 megawatts (MW)—the highest level ever recorded—on February 14, 2025.
This new peak surpasses the previous record of 2,304 MW, which was set on January 15, 2025, by 12 MW, signaling a sustained growth in energy consumption across the country.
Key Drivers of Rising Electricity Demand
According to Kenya Power’s Managing Director and CEO, Dr. (Eng.) Joseph Siror, the sharp rise in electricity demand is largely attributed to strategic investments in stabilizing the National Grid and key infrastructure projects.
Among these projects is the recently completed Kimuka 220/66kV Substation, constructed by the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO).
From this facility, Kenya Power has developed four 66kV feeder lines, significantly improving power supply to Nairobi and neighboring counties.
Dr. Siror highlighted the rapid pace of demand growth, noting that it previously took nearly two years for peak demand to rise by 200 MW.
However, since June 2024, the demand has surged by 116 MW—an average growth rate of 14.5 MW per month over the past eight months.
“Last year alone, we recorded seven new peak demand levels. By December 2024, peak demand stood at 2,288 MW, which then increased to 2,304 MW by January 2025. This trend reflects the growing energy needs driven by increased connectivity and industrial activity,” Dr. Siror explained.
Strengthening the Grid for a Growing Economy
In addition to the Kimuka substation, other key infrastructure projects have bolstered power supply reliability.
Among them is the completion of the 33kV double circuit interconnector between Narok and Bomet, as well as multiple network reinforcement initiatives.
These developments have enhanced power redundancy, ensuring that Kenya Power can sustain its growing sales while maintaining grid stability.
Another significant factor driving demand growth is the expansion of electricity access.
In the past six months alone, over 198,535 new customers have been connected to the national grid, thanks to ongoing transmission and distribution upgrades by Kenya Power and KETRACO.
Looking ahead, Kenya Power is set to implement Phases IV and V of the Last Mile Connectivity Program, a donor-funded initiative aimed at increasing electricity access.
These projects are expected to connect an additional 289,121 new customers, further driving electricity consumption.
Electrification of Transport and Cooking
Beyond traditional power demand, Kenya Power is actively promoting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and e-cooking technologies to boost electricity usage.
In April 2024, the company announced a KSh 258 million investment over three years to accelerate the uptake of EVs and electric motorbikes.
Additionally, four e-cooking hubs have been established in Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Kisumu to educate the public about modern electric cooking appliances.
Kenya Power is also collaborating with institutions such as schools and hotels to drive the transition to electric cooking, reducing reliance on traditional fuels and promoting environmental sustainability.
Need for Increased Electricity Generation
While demand continues to rise, Dr. Siror emphasized the need to expand electricity generation capacity to keep pace with consumption growth.
He stressed that Kenya must focus on increasing its spinning reserves to at least 15% of peak demand, a critical measure to cushion the grid against unexpected disruptions.
Statistics from Kenya Power’s National Control Centre indicate that peak electricity demand has been steadily increasing over the past three years.
The country’s electricity consumption surpassed 2,000 MW in late 2021, peaked above 2,100 MW in 2022, and remained stable below 2,200 MW in 2023.
However, from June 2024 onwards, demand growth has regained momentum, setting multiple new records.
With continued investments in grid infrastructure, connectivity projects, and renewable energy integration, Kenya Power anticipates sustained electricity demand growth in both the short and medium term.
The company remains committed to ensuring a stable, reliable, and sustainable power supply for businesses and households across the country.
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