MPs review sweeping energy, petroleum reforms amid access and security concerns

Three major policy and legislative proposals aimed at overhauling Kenya’s energy and petroleum sectors are under scrutiny by the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Energy amid concerns over electricity access gaps and energy security.

The reforms, the National Energy Policy, the National Petroleum Policy and the Local Content Bill, are intended to expand electricity access, modernise petroleum governance and strengthen local participation in the country’s energy sector.

During stakeholder consultations held in Machakos County, MPs engaged representatives from government agencies, regulators, professional bodies and industry stakeholders on the proposed framework, which seeks to reshape Kenya’s long-term energy direction.

The State Department of Energy told the committee that despite significant progress in electrification, about 10.23 million Kenyans still lack access to electricity. Officials said the National Energy Policy provides a 10-year roadmap targeting universal electricity access by 2030, alongside a shift from a centralised single off-taker system to a more competitive and liberalised energy market.

However, MPs raised concerns over persistent regional disparities in electricity access, particularly in northern Kenya. Garissa Women Representative Amina Udgoon questioned how the policy would address these gaps.

"How does the policy address inequality in electricity access, particularly in Garissa, Mandera, Marsabit and Tana River, which continue to experience unreliable power supply?" she asked.

MPs also sought clarity on the country’s preparedness for nuclear energy development, which has emerged as part of Kenya’s long-term energy strategy, pressing officials on planning and safety considerations.

Attention also turned to the National Petroleum Policy, which aims to modernise oil and gas governance and support exploration and production, including in Turkana.

While ministry officials highlighted plans to leverage petroleum discoveries in Turkana and increase household LPG consumption, legislators focused on the country's vulnerability to global fuel market disruptions.

"Are we ready to process our oil in the region so that we do not depend on imported oil, which at times is disrupted? The cost is now affecting our economy because we have no control," said Ruiru MP Simon King'ara.

The proposed Local Content Bill, sponsored by Oburu Odinga, also featured prominently in discussions. Stakeholders broadly supported the push to increase Kenyan participation in energy projects, though concerns were raised over potential loopholes that could undermine implementation.

The committee is expected to continue reviewing submissions as it weighs reforms that could redefine Kenya’s energy landscape.