NAIROBI, Kenya, June 16 – Kenya is set to host the prestigious Africa Energy Forum (AEF) from June 20–23 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi.
The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum is collaborating with Energynet to host the event in the country.
“This marks the first time that Kenya will host this esteemed energy forum that brings together key stakeholders and thought leaders in the energy sector from around the world,” said Energy and Petroleum CS Davis Chirchir.
“With a reputation of being the most meaningful gathering of decision-makers in African energy, the aef serves as a platform for partnerships, identifying opportunities and propelling the industry forward,” Chirchir added.
Themed ‘Africa for Africa-Building Energy for the Just Transition’, the 25th AEF aims to foster a deeper understanding of the continent’s energy requirements while emphasizing the vital role of international investors in meeting these needs.
The event will brings together government officials, utilities, regulators, development finance institutions, and commercial banks.
Others are power developers, technology providers, engineering, procurement, and construction companies (EPCs), as well as professional services.
Keynote speakers will include Simon Gosling, Managing Director of EnergyNet; CS Chirchir; Sports CS Ababu Namwamba; and Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) Africa Vice President Joseph Nganga, who is also a founding partner of YES.
By converging and sharing insights, participants will forge partnerships and drive positive change in Africa’s energy sector.
KenGen, which is one of Kenya’s leading energy utility firms, will host the event, cementing its position as a key player in Africa’s and Kenya’s energy sectors.
In the recent past, Kenya has become a beacon of renewable energy deployment, showcasing its commitment to a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future.
Notably, Kenya has made significant progress in diversifying its energy mix, with geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar power accounting for 81 percent of the nation’s electrical generation.
Kenya’s impressive utilization of geothermal energy, which constitutes over half of its low-carbon electricity, has positioned the country as a frontrunner in the field.
In fact, Kenya releases excess geothermal energy during periods of low electricity demand, a testament to its abundant resources.
The country’s installed geothermal capacity is projected to expand by at least eightfold, opening doors for expanding green manufacturing capacity and exporting surplus electricity to neighboring nations.
KenGen’s participation in the forum presents valuable opportunities for collaboration with investors, sector partners, and industry experts, driving the advancement of sustainable energy solutions.
Additionally, the event will witness the launch of the Youth Energy Summit (YES!), empowering and providing tools for African youth to succeed in the energy industry.
KenGen and the Geothermal Development Company (GDC) have been instrumental in the development of renewable energy in Kenya.
The two entities have played a pivotal role in strengthening the country’s geothermal production capacity, contributing significantly to the progress of the energy industry.
Other utilities involved in Kenya’s energy sector include the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) and the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO).
The Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NUPEA), and the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) are also participating.
KPLC ensures reliable electricity distribution and supply, while REREC facilitates efficient transmission of electricity and extends electricity access to rural areas, respectively.
The AEF 2023 promises to be a landmark event, driving innovation and collaboration in the energy sector in Africa.
It will serve as a catalyst for advancing sustainable energy solutions, fostering partnerships, and shaping the future of Africa’s energy landscape.
