Harnessing renewables for clean cooking in Kenya

The Kenyan national government, in conjunction with county governments, is seeking to transform the economy and ensure sustainable energy development. However, it is facing challenges such as securing financing for necessary infrastructure, loss of natural habitat, inequality, and energy poverty in its rural and urban areas. The low level of energy access, especially access to clean cooking, is rife due to the dependence of almost 80% of the population on traditional biomass and paraffin for cooking (as per the 2019 census). Access to clean cooking technologies cuts across all these issues and is a particular priority for the country. The use of these traditional cooking fuels contribute to pollution, health impacts, and environmental damage, often impacting women and children the most. The adoption of clean cooking technologies in conjunction with the use of cleaner fuels is therefore a critical part for a just energy transition.