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Easing the Burden of Costly Electricity for Hospitals

by Robin Okuthe Robin Okuthe No Comments

In the very heart of Kenya’s bustling healthcare landscape lies an undeniable reality: hospitals face a pressing energy dilemma. Behind their brightly lit hallways, humming life-saving machines, and laid-back midnight operating rooms, there’s an inexorable financial burden — energy costs. Grid electricity, often unreliable and expensive, has long drained resources meant for critical medical care. This puts hospitals and health systems at great financial risk.

There are whispers that commercial office buildings waste energy by using inefficient methods to keep their interiors well-lit and their occupants cool during the day. Yet, as hospitals operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, their energy demands are more monumental than typical office premises. A healthcare facility consumes 2.5 times as much energy and emit 2.5 times as much carbon dioxide as commercial facilities of the same size. To make the situation even more unpleasant, the cost of meeting these energy demands is slowly but surely going through the ceiling.

According to Kenya Power, commercial electricity rates in Kenya stand at approximately Ksh25 per kilowatt-hour, one of the highest tariffs in East Africa. For large hospitals consuming upwards of 500,000 to 1,000,000 kWh annually, that translates to millions of shillings spent each year, funds that could otherwise enhance patient care, buy modern equipment, or expand wards.

The Burden of Energy Costs in Hospitals

Due to their extensive operations and many energy-intensive devices, hospitals are among the most energy-intensive structures, slowing their growth rates. Besides consuming two and a half times as much energy as much energy per square foot as typical office buildings, hospitals use an average of 193,300 BTUs of energy per square foot per year, which is the same as 1.5 gallons of gas for every square foot of space. Hospitals and labs emit 4.4% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, according to the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

Miale Solar estimates that if recent price trends held true, hospitals’ energy bills would experience an unrelenting upsurge, and more could be kicked out of business.  Say, in the third quarter of 2023, the health sector in Kenya expanded by 5.1%. The value added by health activities to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 3.7%; this marked an increase in the growth rate. However, operating costs also significantly increased as a result of this growth, especially when it came to energy usage. Approximately 8,800 hours of energy are used annually, with heating accounting for 21%, room air conditioning for 17%, cooling for 15%, and lights for 9%. Hospitals could spend roughly Ksh24,420 – Ksh60,830 per bed every month, which can cause their energy costs to amount to 2% of the nation’s overall energy usage. Using an average cost of KSh25 per kWh as a reference, the average yearly consumption of each hospital bed is 29,199 kWh, or an approximate cost of Ksh729,975 annually. So, a hospital can use 20 tons of CO2 On average.

Regular on-roof solar panels installed by Miale Solar at Outspan Hospital

Why Solar Offers a Sustainable Solution

Solar energy offers a transformative solution. Statistically, 87% of Kenya’s 9,696 medical facilities surveyed rely on the national grid, leaving them vulnerable to outages and price hikes. Meanwhile, only 13% have adopted solar energy, even though solar offers an immediate reduction in operational costs and ensures reliability. This means that an overwhelming majority of hospitals in Kenya are missing out on the benefits of solar energy.

Miale Solar’s anecdotal estimates from Outspan Hospital reveal that solar energy can result in annual savings of 25% to 50%. This is consistent with Lazard’s math. According to Lazard’s calculations, the cost of generating one megawatt of electricity per hour is about Ksh 6,461 for solar power and up to Ksh13,820 for coal, which is nearly double the cost of solar. Additionally, the International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that solar electricity is 20–50% less expensive than grid globally, with regional variations. With the right regulations, and financial models, solar power may provide electricity for less than Ksh2,584 per megawatt-hour (MWh). As of recent data, the price of electricity in Kenya for commercial use is around Ksh25 per kWh, which translates to approximately Ksh25,000 Kenyan Shillings per MWh.

Besides, only 15% of Kenya’s healthcare institutions currently have access to steady, reliable power, while 26% lack electricity altogether. Due to the lack of various investments in power generation and the country’s heavy reliance on geothermal and hydroelectric power, which account for 40.6% and 29.6% of total energy production, respectively, the quality of the energy supply is also poor. It causes power disruptions for Kenyan businesses, costing them an average of Ksh 6.3 million a month. The typical interruption lasts five hours and causes 7% of companies’ losses.

Power is provided by emergency power generators. The energy expenses of these generators, Ksh 176 per litre for diesel, account for almost 30% of the productive capacity.

Solar Energy Trends in Kenyan Hospitals

Miale Solar has been at the forefront of the green energy movement, providing hospitals with solar-powered solutions that reduce operational costs and promote sustainability. The company’s success story is best exemplified by its landmark project at Outspan Hospital in Nyeri, one of the leading examples of solar-powered healthcare in Kenya. At Outspan Hospital, Miale Solar installed a state-of-the-art solar photovoltaic (PV) system that supplies the hospital with reliable, cost-effective energy.

Miale Solar installed a 250 kWp hybrid solar PV system with a 500 kWh battery capacity to provide consistent and affordable energy. The results were extraordinary: The solar system generates 366,005 kWh annually, with 353,463 kWh being directly useful to the hospital’s operations. Energy bills dropped significantly, saving Ksh 1.3 million annually during the lease period and Ksh 14 million annually after system handover. CO2 emissions are reduced by 144,400 kg annually.

Outspan Hospital is now more resilient; during grid outages, life-saving equipment remains operational. Patients and staff no longer fear disruptions during critical surgeries, and resources previously spent on electricity now fund better healthcare delivery. By utilizing solar energy, Outspan Hospital has reduced its reliance on expensive and unreliable grid electricity. With significant savings in operational costs, the hospital can now allocate more resources to improving patient care, purchasing essential medical equipment, and enhancing its overall service delivery.

Outspan Hospital’s rooftop solar power system

Also, Makueni County Referral Hospital recently adopted a solar power system to support its operations. Seeing over 500 patients per day, the hospital, which previously struggled with grid outages and high diesel generator costs, now enjoys consistent power and significant savings. However, its operations are expensive. The facility’s electricity costs alone cost the local government around Ksh 24 million ($187,000) annually; this money may be used to improve healthcare or give other services. The county administration has erected a new solar PV system at the institution, which will produce 288 MWh yearly, and would cover 30–33% of the hospital’s electricity needs. The system will assist in supplying a reliable, steady, and clean power source, even during power outages, which are now prevalent in the nation, and save the county government up to Ksh 7 million ($55,000) a year.

Similarly, Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital has installed solar systems to run critical equipment and offset energy bills. As part of a research initiative led by Oxford University, Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital plans to develop a 228kW solar plant, which will save more than KSh1 million in monthly power expenditures. During a blackout, the hospital, which pays up to KSh3 million in power costs each month, must also spend over Sh40,000 per day on fuel. The project entails the installation of 396 solar panels and a smart metering system, according to Dr. Leah Moriasi, executive officer of Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital.

“As a hospital, we will have significant savings in electricity bills, fuel costs, and other inconveniences. Its success will guide future investments,” Dr Moriasi said.

Why Miale Solar Stands Out

Miale Solar is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this trend. Miale’s technical expertise, financing models, and after-sales service — including maintenance and monitoring — position the company as the partner of choice for Kenya’s hospitals.

Hospitals often face financial constraints, but Miale’s flexible Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) eliminate the need for upfront costs. Under a PPA, Miale builds, owns, and maintains the solar system, while the hospital pays only for the energy consumed—at rates far lower than grid electricity. This model ensures immediate savings, sustainability, and long-term ownership of the system.

Contact Miale Solar today and take the first step toward a brighter, solar-powered future.

Kenya’s Flower Farms Are All Going Solar

by Robin Okuthe Robin Okuthe No Comments

Kenya is the world’s fourth-largest exporter of cut flowers, supplying convincingly 40% of Europe’s floral demand. Yet, this flourishing floriculture industry faces weighty barriers that could downturn its long-term prospects. The cost of electricity in Kenya is among the highest in Africa, averaging $0.22 per kWh for industrial consumers, according to Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) data. Frequent blackouts also disrupt operations, forcing farms to rely on costly diesel generators. Besides, as global consumers become increasingly concerned about the environment, there is an increasing demand for flowers that are not only garden-fresh but also sustainably farmed.

The cumulative effects of these newer realities mean that farms must rethink their energy strategies.

Kenya’s Floriculture Industry: Challenges and Opportunities

In the lush Kenyan fields, where the world’s most exquisite roses, peonies, and lilies bloom, flower farms are at a crossroads.  While these farms are just now starting to adopt the idea, other countries have boldly integrated solar energy into their agricultural sectors, offering valuable insights into Kenya’s floriculture industry — a strong pillar of the national economy. According to data from the Kenya Flower Council, the industry makes up about 1.3% of Kenya’s total GDP. Just about 200,000 tonnes of flowers, with an annual export value of $900 million, are produced on an estimated 5,000 hectares dedicated to flower production.

African flower exports increased as a result of an energy crisis in the 1970s that shot up the cost of heating greenhouses in northern countries. As a result, production moved south, where producing flowers all year round with less energy was possible. As US customers increased their trade with Latin America, they increasingly imported flowers from Israel, Morocco, and, of interest, East Africa (Kenya and Ethiopia) into Europe.

As a result, Kenya is a particularly important rose supplier today, accounting for one-third of all roses sold in the EU, according to Union Fleurs. Cut flowers are currently Kenya’s second-largest export after tea, accounting for 1% of the country’s GDP. The flower industry employs about 150,000 people directly and an estimated 2 million indirectly, making it one of the largest employers in the country.

Changing with the Times

One of the key themes that Kenyan producers are capitalizing on is the rising demand for commodities, including cut flowers, sourced responsibly and ethically. As the world becomes increasingly concerned about the environment globally, there is an increasing demand for flowers that are not only fragrant but also responsibly farmed.

During the 11th International Floriculture Trade Exhibition (IFTEX 2024) in Nairobi, Dr. Idris Dokota, Kenya’s Principal Secretary, State Department of Cabinet Affairs, stated: “The flower business is expanding rapidly. But climate change is the largest obstacle, particularly in Kenya.”

Van Ramsdens, the CEO of HPP International Exhibition Group, added that “Kenya has taken a great step to eliminate plastic bags, which we expect to have a positive impact going forward. Climate change is a real issue.”

In the same vein, Stephen Adwong’a, Miale Solar’s chief executive, claims that sustainability is no longer merely a fad but is now expected in virtually every sector. Maria Njeri, Director of Bloom Kenya Farms, agrees and reiterates that “consumers want to know that their flowers are grown sustainably and they are looking for transparency in their purchases.”

“In response, we have implemented environmentally friendly practices like lowering carbon emissions, recycling water, and using organic fertilizer,” she said.

Besides employing rainwater collection technologies to cut down on water use, flower firms use solar energy to power greenhouses. This commitment has not only reduced their environmental effect but also garnered flower farms that are leading in the solar energy uptake such as Shalimar Fresh, Van den berg Roses and Solai Flower Farm numerous eco-conscious clients in Europe and beyond.

How Flower Farms in Kenya Are Turning to Solar

More and more flower farms are making bold moves toward sustainable energy in Kenya. A 421 kWp grid-tie solar PV facility was installed by Van Den Berg Roses, one of Kenya’s most prestigious flower farms, in partnership with Miale Solar. The farm’s activities are now powered by this facility. It also drastically reduces electricity expenses and lessens the farm’s dependency on the national grid.

Shalimar Fresh Mwanzi Farm, which implemented a 150 kWp solar solution, is another exceptional example. These initiatives demonstrate how solar energy may revolutionize flower farms and demonstrate that renewable energy sources can satisfy the high energy requirements of greenhouses, cooling units, and irrigation systems.

The Global Shift to Solar in Flower Farming

Even though Kenya’s floriculture sector is growing, key players like Ethiopia and South Africa are adopting renewable energy at a faster rate. To address the country’s power crisis, South Africa’s agriculture industry has made significant investments in solar energy. The 2 MW solar plant situated at the Western Cape’s Elandsfontein agricultural estate serves as a striking case study. This plant reduces operating expenses by almost 40% by powering cooling units, packaging facilities, and irrigation systems.

Through tax breaks and incentives like the Section 12B tax allowance, which enables companies to write off the whole cost of solar installations in the first year, the South African government has encouraged the adoption of solar energy. Large-scale farms in South Africa have also benefited from financing initiatives that provide loans with lower interest rates.

The Netherlands, the world leader in floriculture, has embraced renewable energy on a grand scale. Farms like Ter Laak Orchids have installed solar PV systems exceeding 1 MWp, alongside innovative technologies such as geothermal heating and LED lighting. These farms not only reduce energy costs but also enhance productivity by creating controlled environments for their flowers. The Dutch government supports renewable energy through subsidies like the SDE+ scheme, which helps offset the initial cost of solar installations. This has allowed Dutch flower farms to remain globally competitive while reducing their environmental footprint.

Ethiopia, Africa’s second-largest flower exporter, is another leader in renewable energy adoption. The Sher Flower Farm, one of the largest floriculture exporters in the world, uses a hybrid solar-diesel system to ensure consistent energy supply for irrigation and cooling systems. This has allowed the farm to meet international sustainability standards, a critical requirement for European markets. The Ethiopian government’s Renewable Energy Program offers subsidies and support to businesses willing to invest in solar energy, further accelerating the transition. This proactive approach has bolstered Ethiopia’s reputation as a sustainable exporter of flowers.

An industry-leading flower exporter in Ecuador also made an investment in a 500 kWp solar plant, proving that renewable energy can save costs and provide consistent power supply even in remote locations.

Why Solar Power is the Future for Kenya’s Flower Farms

Adwong’a explained, “Electricity costs in Kenya are among the highest in Africa, with rates that can severely impact profitability. At Miale, we offer a cost-effective alternative.”

Solar power offers a cost-effective alternative, reducing energy expenses by up to 60%. These savings can be reinvested into expanding operations or improving flower quality, giving Kenyan farms a competitive edge.

Adwong’a also brought in the issue of energy reliability, stating that frequent power outages and grid instability are common in Kenya, disrupting operations and increasing reliance on costly diesel generators. He proffered that solar energy provides a reliable daytime power source, particularly during peak sunlight hours when irrigation and cooling systems are most active.

“This ensures uninterrupted operations, a critical factor for the highly time-sensitive floriculture industry,’ he said.

Another critical issue that flower farms will have to look at is the consumer trend. Global consumers increasingly demand proof of sustainable practices, including reduced carbon emissions. Solar power allows farms to lower their environmental footprint significantly. For instance, Van Den Berg Roses’ solar PV system annually reduces carbon emissions by 253,365 kgCO2e.

Adwong’a explained that by adopting solar, Kenyan flower farms can meet global sustainability standards and appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.

While Kenya’s renewable energy policies lag behind countries like South Africa and Ethiopia, there are signs of progress. The government’s Solar PV Regulations and recent tax exemptions on renewable energy equipment are steps in the right direction. Industry trailblazers like Miale Solar also offer flexible financing options, including Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and lease agreements, making solar installations more accessible to flower farms.

The floriculture industry is highly competitive, with buyers favoring suppliers who demonstrate efficiency and sustainability. By adopting solar power, Kenyan flower farms can reduce operational costs and align with international market demands.

“At Miale Solar, we are committed to helping flower farms thrive in a competitive global market. With our tailored solar solutions, we ensure that your farm not only reduces costs but also meets sustainability goals,” Adwong’a concluded.

Ready to take the first step toward a brighter, greener future? Contact Miale Solar today and let us power your farm with the sun.

Why Kilifi Must Embrace Solar Water Pumps

by Robin Okuthe Robin Okuthe No Comments

Whenever the sun rises and sweeps across Kilifi, its rays illuminate the keys to a sustainable solution for a county facing an acute water crisis. In the face of hosting two of Kenya’s major water sources — Baricho Wellfield and Mzima Springs — Kilifi grapples with water supply deficit. With a rising population and growing demand for water, the region demands 265,000 cubic meters (m³) of water daily. However, its existent supply comes short by 200,000 m³, leaving households, factories, hotels, and farmers struggling with severe shortages.

In the midst of the challenge, there lies a unique opportunity to reword the county’s story. Speaking at the Kilifi International Investment Conference, Stephen Adwong’a, Miale Solar Inventions’ chief executive, delivered a rallying call: “transition to solar power to transform the Kilifi water sector.”

“This isn’t by any means just a crisis,” Adwong’a professed, “It’s a rallying cry to harness the limitless power of our vicious Kenyan sun to unlock Kilifi’s water future while hacking down operational costs.”

Kilifi’s Water Crisis in Numbers

Dr. Omar Said, the Kilifi County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water, Environment, Natural Resources & Climate Change, reiterated, “Kilifi County experiences a water crisis of overwhelming proportions. Our reliance on diesel and grid electricity for water pumping is proving to be consistently costly and obviously, unjustifiable. This burdens our residents with high water bills and recurrent supply interruptions.”

Nestled along sun-drenched coastlines, Kilifi remains a land of paradoxes. Its water supply depends worryingly on the Baricho Wellfield and Mzima Springs, critical water resources that pump water to municipalities like Malindi, Mtwapa, and Kilifi. The Baricho Wellfield, for instance, with its fifteen boreholes, produces upwards of 112,000 m³/day, while Mzima Springs subsidizes 40,000 m³/day. Nevertheless, operational challenges have persisted. Water pumping is powered primarily by grid electricity and diesel generators, with the costs of diesel averaging as much as Ksh173 per liter (USD 1.28) and electricity rates soaring to nearly Ksh25 ($0.22) per kilowatt-hour (kWh) — among the highest in Africa.

According to Coast Water Works Development Agency (CWWDA), “the Baricho Wellfield, Kilifi’s primary water source, operates 15 boreholes pumping millions of liters daily. But this operation comes at an environmental and financial cost. With water demand increasingly surging due to population growth and economic activity, the gap widens, and traditional energy sources seem increasingly unsustainable.”

The financial risk is manifest. Water utility companies such as the Kilifi-Mariakani Water and Sewerage Company (KIMAWASCO) and Malindi Water & Sewerage Company (MAWASCO) apportion practically 30 percent of their operational outlays to energy costs. For the county’s water consumers, this transforms into costly water bills. These raise water tariffs, making access to affordable water another major concern.  Recurrent blackouts and fuel shortages also cause disruptions to the already strained supply. Besides, dependency on fossil fuels donates squarely to environmental degradation, conflicting with global climate goals.

“Kilifi’s dependence on fossil fuels and the grid is not just unjustifiably costly. It’s not sustainable,” Adwong’a remarked in the course of his presentation.

Solar Water Pumps a Promising Solution

Adwong’a painted an optimistic portrait of solar-powered water pumps transforming the sector.

“Kilifi County is the perfect place for solar energy systems because it receives an average of 6.4 hours of sunlight each day. The county could significantly save operating expenses, increase dependability, and meet international sustainability targets by utilizing this plentiful resource,” explained Adwong’a.

Adwong’a adverted to Miale Solar’s success with the Naivasha Water and Sanitation Company (Naivawasco) as a blueprint for what the Kilifi County Government can achieve.

The success of Naivawasco serves as a compelling case study. Before adopting solar energy, Naivawasco could spend Ksh125 million annually on grid electricity. Following Miale Solar’s installation of a 1.23 MWp grid-tied solar PV system, the Naivasha-based utility company now saves not less than Ksh21.6 million every year, with energy costs brought down to the neighborhoods of 20% during the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) period. After the PPA tenure, Naivawasco’s savings are projected to rise to Ksh45 million annually, which is a 36% cost reduction.

Adwong’a highlighted how the Kilifi County Government could replicate this model. With zero upfront investment, KIMAWASCO and MAWASCO could partner with Miale Solar to implement solar systems to benefit from significant savings and long-term ownership of infrastructure approximated at Ksh175 million.

Learning from Global Success

Elsewhere, outside of Kenya, water management is rapidly changing due solar-powered water pumps. For example, India has linked at least 2.4 million solar pumps under its ground-breaking Kusum Scheme, reducing farmers’ irrigation expenses by 40–60%. Additionally, the program has decreased CO2 emissions by 1.2 million tons per year. The Kilifi County Government can duplicate this case study’s demonstration of the scalability of solar systems, even in isolated and rural areas.

Kenya, on the other hand, falls behind, with solar pumps accounting for less than 1% of sectoral solutions. But it has enormous potential. Utility companies KIMAWASCO and MAWASCO in Kilifi County potential to drastically reduce expenses while ensuring a reliable water supply if they use solar energy.

Adwong’a said: “Kilifi utilities could reduce energy prices by 25–50% during PPA tenures and subsequently save money beyond the PPA by integrating solar. We at Miale Solar have seen this impact ourselves. Without requiring any expenditure from the organization in charge of the unit, Kilifi may save at least Ksh10 million a month by switching a single pumping unit at Baricho to solar power.”

Strategic Recommendations for Kilifi County

Adwong’a proposed a multi-pronged approach that the Kilifi County Government can apply to leverage solar energy:

“First, in order to completely switch water utilities to solar, Miale Solar could install solar-powered water pumps in collaboration with KIMAWASCO and MAWASCO, which would lower energy costs and guarantee a steady supply.

“We also suggest desalination using solar electricity. You see, Kilifi’s closeness to the Indian Ocean gives it the perfect location for solar-powered desalination plants, which would help with the daily water shortfall of 200,000 m³.”

Additional propositions by Adwong’a included public-private partnerships (PPPs), where KIMAWASCO and MAWASCO could partner with Miale Solar to unlock funding and expertise for sustainable water projects.

Development partners may be asked to provide guarantees under PPPs in order to draw in additional investors and help the water sector overcome bankability issues. Adwong’a stressed that in order to implement the project, Kilifi County should also establish special purpose vehicles with bankable guarantees.

For long-term operational sustainability, lease-to-own and power purchase agreement (PPA) models can also be used without requiring the County to provide upfront funding. By lowering water costs and boosting dependable supply in underserved areas, these strategies will guarantee the widespread adoption of solar water pumps.

The other strategy is to pilot and scale solar-powered desalination and smart water systems.

“To supply coastal populations with drinkable water, we propose three main strategic approaches, one of which is carrying out feasibility studies for integrating solar desalination facilities. In order to optimize water distribution, minimize waste, and improve accountability, we recommend the implementation of smart water metering systems powered by solar,” said Adwong’a, adding that, “finally, before making the entire switch to solar, we advise testing out cutting-edge options like hybrid solar systems for high-demand areas.”

Therefore…

Adopting solar water pumps offers Kilifi County the chance to address urgent issues, cut expenses, and guarantee sustainable water access for future generations.

Solar energy is a lifeline as Kilifi confronts an uncertain future due to growing water demand and unsustainable energy costs. “Now is the moment to take action,” Adwong’a suggested. “Imagine Kilifi free from the tyranny of diesel costs. Imagine a steady supply of water, driven by the sun, to every home, business, and farm. Kilifi possesses the potential, resources, and sunlight. The will to accept the change is all that is required.”

Adwong’a’s message at the conference was clear: Kilifi’s water sector must embrace solar energy to overcome its challenges and build a sustainable future. With Miale Solar as a partner, the county can harness the power of the sun to quench its water needs, reduce costs, and lead Kenya’s transition to renewable energy.

Miale’s Answer to Kenya’s Costly Electricity and Blackouts

by Robin Okuthe Robin Okuthe No Comments

When nightfall descends in Kenya, it’s less often because of sunset. For a long time, the country has faced up to a ‘chronic’ energy crisis marked by fickle electricity supply and recurrent blackouts.

From bustling city life to sleepy rural villages, the power outages have, occasionally, left households in darkness, factories at their downtime, and essential services providers in panic. The infamous countrywide blackouts in August and September 2024 exposed just how fragile Kenya’s power grid is becoming and why a shift to solar power is certain.

In the depths of these challenges lurks an opportunity — a changeover to solar energy. According to Miale Solar’s Chief Executive Stephen Adwong’a, solar energy is a timely solution that, besides promising reliability, offers long-term cost savings and sustainability.

Miale Solar has taken the front position of this switch, providing versatile solar energy solutions that are lighting the pathway to a brighter, more resilient future.

The Extent of Kenya’s Energy Crisis

Kenya generates an impressive 86% of its electricity from renewable sources, including hydropower, geothermal, and wind. Yet, the overdependence on hydropower, besides an agonizingly aging transmission network, makes the energy system highly susceptible to breakdowns.

On August 25, 2023, Kenya went through its longest nationwide power outage, which lasted for over twenty-four hours. The September 2024 national blackout incident also lasted several hours, affecting industries, schools, and essential services across the country. Unfortunately, such disruptions are far from sporadic. In 2022 alone, Kenya Power, the national utility company, reported over 1,500 outages as a result of equipment failures, vandalism, and poor maintenance.

Such disruptions are costly. The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) decries that power outages cost the economy in the neighborhoods of $2 million daily in lost productivity. Organizations that depend on diesel generators have to contend with operational costs that are tenaciously hitting the roof, with diesel prices having increased by 12% in 2023 alone.

The costs of electricity are also comparatively high. The global average price of electricity ranges from $0.1-0.15 per kWh compared to Kenya’s from $0.21-0.26 kWh. For commercial users, the cost of electricity was $0.170 (Sh18.88) per kWh in Kenya compared to a global average of $0.124 (Sh15.10) per kWh, as of September 2024. This indicates that in comparison to countries in the Common Market for East and South Africa (COMESA) economic trading bloc, which have more equitable and affordable electricity pricing, Kenya is at a disadvantage due to its exorbitant electricity rates.

Solar Energy as the Bonfire of Hope

Solar energy is becoming the dependable and sustainable substitute for Kenya’s ‘struggling’ grid, giving the country an advantage over its African peers. Solar is now more affordable than ever owing to an 80% decrease in installation costs over the past ten years, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

Figures from the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), the national energy regulator, show that, as of December 2023, Kenya had a total solar installation capacity of about 410.4MW, of which 210.3 MW were grid-connected and 196.2 MW were captive. In Ghana, solar energy makes up 1% of the country’s energy mix, and the government encourages the use of solar by offering tax breaks and subsidies. As of 2023, Ghana’s total installed solar power capacity is 152.3MW. In the case of Nigeria, initially beset by one of Africa’s most unstable grids, has given room to the rise of private sector-driven solar solutions as the mainstay of rural electrification initiatives. As of 2023, the country’s solar energy capacity ascended to 112MW, a remarkable upsurge compared to 2014.

Braced by resurgent solar solutions providers like Miale Solar, Kenya is ahead of its peers. According to EPRA, The government’s goal of providing energy to all citizens by 2026 depends on off-grid solar power. The realization of this goal will depend considerably on how industry players like Miale Solar take to the space to react to the current energy crisis. In effect, the decentralized nature of solar energy provides unsurpassed resilience.

What Miale Solar is Doing

The energy crisis in Kenya is not an insoluble hurdle. The country has the means and ways to upset outages, cut carbon emissions, and attain energy independence with solar energy at the forefront.

One project at a time, Miale Solar is leading the charge. Miale’s influence is seen in everything from community-focused projects to industrial behemoths like Home Tena Quarry. Kenya’s aspirations for a resilient and sustainable energy future align perfectly with the company’s mission.

Miale Solar has been instrumental in enabling communities, businesses, and institutions to become less dependent on grid electricity with its creative solar solutions. In 2024, Miale installed a 402 kWp grid-tied solar PV system at Home Tena Quarry to lessen reliance on costly diesel generators and the unstable grid. With an annual output of over 659,579 kWh, this system now covers around 50.4% of the quarry’s energy requirements while reducing carbon emissions by up to 253,365 kg CO2e. The outcome? Considerable cost reductions and improved operational effectiveness.

Additionally, Miale’s installation of a 1.23 MWp solar PV system has allowed Naivasha Water and Sewerage Company to reach previously unprecedented energy efficiency. The project, which was funded by a 12-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), exemplifies Miale’s dedication to providing customized, reasonably priced solar solutions.

Solar energy campaigns by Miale Solar have seen businesses across Kenya slowly but surely recognize the significance of solar energy, not just for reliability but also for its financial and environmental benefits.

A diversified strategy is needed to address the energy pricing crisis in Kenya, such as investing in solar energy, which is benefiting greatly from the narrative surrounding climate change. Compared to Kenya Power’s $0.19 per kWh rates, solar energy costs in Kenya are substantially lower, ranging from $0.08 to $0.12 per kWh. Over time, solar systems pay for themselves through reduced energy bills.

According to Adwong’a, Miale Solar’s chief executive, with increasing consumer awareness, businesses adopting solar energy are seen as environmentally responsible, enhancing their brand reputation.

“Solar energy provides autonomy from an unstable grid. Businesses can operate seamlessly, even during nationwide blackouts,” stated Adwong’a.

Already, Miale Solar has seen the light and currently advocates solar energy for rural and off-grid communities in Kenya’s rural areas, where 70% of the population resides, and bears the brunt of energy poverty. Here, solar energy has emerged as a lifeline.

Miale’s community-driven initiatives, such as solar installations in schools and hospitals, are expected to bridge the critical energy gap. As it empowers rural areas with solar energy, the company is determined to be the agent of change that stimulates socioeconomic development and environmental conservation. This will be a substitute, rather than a challenger, to state programs such as the Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP), which aims to bring solar electricity to 1.3 million people, shrinking dependence on kerosene and firewood.

Challenges to Solar Adoption

Despite its advantages, Kenya confronts challenges in adopting solar energy. As clarified by Adwong’a, companies will still need to grapple with high initial costs, financial gaps, and awareness.

“When it comes to high initial costs, although costs have decreased, many people are still put off by the initial outlay required for solar installation. In addition, widespread adoption is hampered by a lack of accessible, reasonably priced financing options. Let’s also not forget that the long-term advantages of solar are not well known to many prospective consumers,” explains Adwong’a.

Miale Solar uses creative financing strategies, such as lease-to-own agreements and PPAs, to address these issues. Additionally, the organization runs community awareness initiatives to inform homes and businesses about the advantages of solar energy.

Therefore…

Making optimal use of the Kenyan sun’s abundant power is the answer to the country’s faulty electrical grid. Solar energy is the cornerstone of a contemporary, sustainable energy ecosystem, rather than a band-aid solution. Businesses, organizations, and communities are encouraged to join the solar revolution by Miale Solar. One solar panel at a time, we can work together to brighten Kenya’s path to progress.

Call us now to learn more about our projects and solutions.

More Kenyan Schools and Hospitals Turning to Solar Power

by Robin Okuthe Robin Okuthe No Comments

Kenya’s schools and hospitals are grappling with unrelenting energy crises — one characterized by ever-increasing electricity bills, persistent blackouts, and an over-reliance on non-sustainable energy sources. At the heart of this crisis lies a clear and urgent opportunity: the shift to solar power.

Leading the charge in solar adoption in Kenya is Miale Solar, a leading innovator in the solar energy sector. According to Stephen Adwong’a, the company’s chief executive, solar energy shouldn’t just be viewed as a substitute; it’s a necessity for schools and hospitals pushing for operational efficiency, cost reduction, and environmental sustainability.

“Every indication suggests that solar technology will soon be widely adopted by all schools and hospitals in Kenya. As knowledge grows, training becomes more accessible, perceived and actual financial risks decline, and solar technology gets more affordable, all of the aforementioned challenges can be resolved,” Adwong’a said.

The grave weight of energy costs

Current trends indicate that institutions all around Africa and the rest of the world are adopting solar energy as the key to a sustainable future. For Kenya, efforts have been made to expand access to power and lower costs through programs including Vision 2030, the BIG-4 Agenda, and universal electricity access through the Last Mile Connectivity Program to guarantee dependable and climate-resilient energy systems. Already, a concrete foundation for cleaner and more sustainable energy integration has been established by targeting a 100% transition to renewable electricity by 2030 (88% in 2022).

Miale Solar is responding by laying out an unquestionable path for boosting solar adoption countrywide.

Commenting on why schools and hospitals must act now, Adwong’a said: “Solar energy is not just cheaper in the long run; it’s more reliable and predictable in our Kenyan scenario. By switching to solar, institutions can reduce their energy costs by up to 70%, freeing up money for other priorities like hiring employees or buying necessary equipment.”

More studies show that utilizing solar technology, such as commercial rooftop solar panels, can drastically cut electricity costs by up to 70%.

Miale has set up a number of installations in different hospitals. Tenri Hospital is one example; its activities are powered by a 72 kWp Grid-Tie Solar PV Plant, which guarantees consistent electricity. The initiative, which is funded by a 10-year PPA, sustainably reduces costs and increases production. Other hospitals are Lugulu Hospital (30 kWP), Nightingale Hospital in Kisumu (80 kWP), and Outspan Hospital (185 KwP grid-tied).

Miale Solar pursues a multi-sectoral approach to solar installations. Other than hospitals, Miale Solar’s installation of a 1.23 MWp solar PV system at Naivasha Water and Sewerage Company is expected to reduce energy costs by over 50%, demonstrating the potential for similar savings in schools and hospitals. At Home Tena Quarry, Miale installed a 402 kW solar PV system, which has the potential to cut carbon emissions by 253,365 kg CO2e annually. Such initiatives showcase Miale’s ability to design and execute impactful solar projects tailored to client needs.

Adwong’a asserts that solar systems, particularly when combined with battery storage, offer a continuous power supply, removing the interruptions brought on by blackouts. In his view, an optimal changeover to solar energy is imminent, bearing in mind that the prices of solar panels have plummeted, making them increasingly affordable, and cheaper to install in the long run.

The dramatic decline in the price of clean energy over the past few decades has been one of the most revolutionary technological developments. Over the past ten years, for instance, the cost of solar photovoltaics has decreased by 90% worldwide, onshore wind by 70%, and batteries by over 90%. Wright’s Law describes the “learning curve” that these technologies have followed. According to this theory, technology’s cost steadily decreases as its total production rises.

“Schools and hospitals can drastically lower their carbon footprints by implementing solar power, which is consistent with Kenya’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement,” Adwong’a stated.

According to a recent survey, Kenya has the fourth-highest household power costs in Africa. At the time, Kenyan households paid $0.222 (Sh24.65) per kWh for power, whereas the global average was $0.136 (Sh15.10) per kWh. The price covers every element of the electricity bill, including taxes, power expenses, and distribution fees. This amount is far higher than that of Tanzania ($0.10 per kWh) and Ethiopia ($0.06 per kWh), two adjacent countries.

These costs are more than just figures for hospitals and schools; they are the difference between financial catastrophes and balanced budgets. Many public schools, for instance, operate on shoestring budgets, and energy bills consume a significant portion of their operational costs. The proportion of primary schools receiving electricity increased from 56% to 94% between 2014 and 2016. While remotely located schools acquired solar photovoltaics, those closer to the grid network were connected to grid electricity. Today, over 65% of Kenyan secondary schools spend more than 10% of their yearly budgets on power alone, as per a 2022 Ministry of Education assessment.

A similar scenario applies to hospitals. Power outages can spell the difference between life and death since medical devices like ventilators, imaging machines, and lab instruments depend on steady electricity. According to a 2023 study by the Kenya Healthcare Federation, up to 20% of medium-sized hospitals’ operating costs were energy-related. The county government in Makueni County, for instance, pays roughly $13,000 a month for electricity for just one of its primary facilities, Makueni Level 6 Hospital, which sees 1,000–1,200 patients every day. To cut expenses, the county administration is looking into solar energy. Solar systems have the significant advantage of lowering long-term operating and maintenance expenses by eliminating the need for generators and providing savings over grid-provided electricity.

Solar energy is also an answer to sporadic blackouts. While Kenya has experienced periodic blackouts for decades, subtle evidence from industry data suggests that the situation could suddenly be worsening. In August and September 2024, for instance, nationwide blackouts forced hospitals to rely on costlier diesel generators and schools. While they are an essential backup, diesel generators are not a long-term answer. They cost upwards of $0.25 per kWh to operate and are a major source of carbon emissions. In the age of the green revolution, dependence on such non-sustainable technology is unacceptable for organizations entrusted with educating children and saving lives.

Miale Solar is Breaking the Barriers to Adoption

In the face of its glaring advantages, solar energy adoption must face up to hurdles, such as high upfront costs and limited awareness.

“Funding is one of the main obstacles”, Mr Adwong’a clarified, “to integrating distributed renewable energy into Africa’s healthcare system.” For instance, according to a recent assessment by Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All), it will cost $235 million to electrify Kenya’s healthcare institutions alone, of which $133 million will go to commercial facilities and $102 million to public ones. Long-term cost benefits are possible with on-site solar electricity, although initial equipment costs can be high.

Miale Solar is addressing these challenges head-on using innovative financing models like Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and lease-to-own options. This implies that a hospital with a PPA can purchase solar energy at a lower cost than grid electricity and without incurring any up-front expenses. This model guarantees both short- and long-term savings.

Therefore…

Switching to solar power is no longer an option; it’s a prerequisite as Kenya’s hospitals and schools tussle with soaring electricity costs and unrelenting blackouts. Miale Solar offers solar solutions for sustainable, cost-effective solutions that ensure reliability and align with global environmental goals.

With a track record of success and creative solutions, Miale is paving the way for Kenyan institutions. The question now is not whether or not hospitals and schools should use solar power, but rather when.

Let’s use “today” as the response. The sun is rising on Kenya’s energy future. Will your institution rise with it? For more information on how your institution can join the solar revolution, contact us at Miale Solar.