Members of Parliament step up for Green Energy Zones

On 15 May 2025, the Trademark Hotel in Nairobi buzzed with purpose as 25 parliamentarians from the Senate and the National Assembly gathered, not for political debate, but to shape Kenya’s green energy future and explore Green Energy Zones as a transformative opportunity for the nation.

Hosted by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and Climate Parliament and joined by a senior representative from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, and other key stakeholders, the high-level workshop emphasised the critical role of legislators in unlocking Kenya’s clean energy potential.

With over 90% of grid electricity already renewable, Kenya stands as a continental leader. But achieving 100% green energy by 2030 and fulfilling emissions reduction pledges demands bold, coordinated action. Green Energy Zones can play a prtin athis. They are decentralised hubs to attract investment, accelerate green industrialisation, and bridge energy gaps in underserved regions. Beyond electricity, they represent a platform for job creation, technological advancement, and inclusive economic growth.

One highlight of the sessions was the exciting potential of pumped hydro storage (PHS), a game-changer for Kenya’s energy mix. Presenters outlined how PHS can act like a giant rechargeable battery, storing excess energy and releasing it when demand peaks. With sites identified near Lake Victoria and Lake Turkana, and a target capacity of 300–500MW, these projects could create up to 1,500 jobs and eliminate 1.2 million tons of CO₂ annually.

None of this can happen without legislation, oversight, and budgetary backing and that’s where MPs come in. From streamlining approvals and championing financial incentives to ensuring transparency in project allocation, legislators have a front-row seat in shaping Kenya’s energy destiny.

“This is not just about power. It’s about empowering our people,” Hon. Mawathe Julius remarked during the session.

The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum (MOEP) outlined Kenya’s transformative Draft National Energy Policy 2025–2034 during the parliamentary workshop, emphasising Parliament’s critical role in legislation, oversight, and budgetary support to drive a just energy transition. The policy, developed through extensive stakeholder consultations, aims to universalise energy access, expand renewables, modernise infrastructure, and align with climate goals. Focus areas include clean cooking solutions, regional energy trade, and decentralised frameworks like Green Energy Zones.

Parliamentarians were urged to fast-track policy adoption, mobilise climate finance, and strengthen county-level implementation. The presentation highlighted strategic opportunities for MPs to champion energy innovation, inclusive growth, and Kenya’s leadership in sustainable development.

The workshop, set the stage for continued engagement, keeping the momentum through upcoming regional roundtables, global policy dialogues, and capacity-building events, including one planned for Marrakech in June.

As the day wrapped up, the message was clear: Kenya’s path to a green and inclusive future is bright but it will take political will, smart policy, and sustained partnerships to get us there. And judging by the energy in that room, we’re on the right track.

Jackson Ndegwa

Policy Coordinator, Kenya