In a significant move aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Kenya, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced the opening of license applications for Kenyans interested in establishing electric vehicle charging and battery swapping stations. This announcement was made during the unveiling of the “EV Charging and Battery Swapping Infrastructure Guidelines, 2023,” underlining EPRA’s commitment to promoting sustainable transportation solutions.
EPRA’s statement on the matter emphasized that individuals or entities intending to install public or private charging stations or battery swapping stations at locations of their choice can now apply for licenses from EPRA. However, there is a crucial stipulation: all charging equipment used must be certified by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS). This requirement ensures that only high-quality, safe, and reliable charging infrastructure is deployed across the country.
The decision to open up licensing for EV infrastructure marks a pivotal moment in Kenya’s journey toward embracing electric mobility. EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria, speaking at the launch event, highlighted the growing transition to clean vehicles, particularly electric two- and three-wheelers, as part of Kenya’s broader strategy to mitigate the impact of carbon dioxide emissions on the environment. These emissions have been linked to climate change-related consequences such as flooding and extended drought, making the reduction of emissions a pressing concern.
The transportation sector alone is a significant contributor to Kenya’s total emissions, accounting for approximately 13 percent of the country’s emissions, and this figure continues to rise. Bargoria noted that the new guidelines represent a critical step forward in the government’s e-mobility agenda, ensuring that charging infrastructure is accessible to all citizens, including persons with disabilities. Additionally, the guidelines aim to make charging infrastructure affordable, strategically placed along major highways to cater to long-distance travelers, and offer clear instructions for home charging ports, promoting inclusivity and accessibility.
Beyond facilitating the deployment of charging ports and battery swapping stations, the guidelines provide an adoption framework designed to attract investments in e-mobility while instilling confidence in its uptake. Investors in the electric vehicle sector will benefit from a clear understanding of the requirements for installation and operation.
Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir also weighed in on the significance of electric mobility in Kenya. Chirchir noted that electric mobility has the potential to enhance electricity consumption efficiency in the country. He revealed that around 70 percent of charging for electric buses and motorbikes occurs during off-peak periods, highlighting the capacity to optimize electricity utilization during these times.
In conclusion, EPRA’s decision to open license applications for electric vehicle charging and battery swapping stations represents a pivotal moment in Kenya’s pursuit of sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions. These new guidelines not only promote the growth of electric mobility but also set the stage for a greener, more energy-efficient future while addressing pressing environmental concerns. Kenya is poised to make significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint and embracing the benefits of electric transportation.
