KenGen begins piloting development of EV infrastructure

Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) plans to commercialize its charging stations has begun with the piloting of four electric vehicle.

The power generator said the vehicles will be used for data collection and policy development as e-mobility gains root in the country.

KenGen earlier announced plans to diversify into e-mobility as it targets to install at least 30 EV charging stations across the country by end of 2023.

KenGen Acting Managing Director Abraham Serem said vehicles will also be used for initial technology choices for electric charging infrastructure in the country.

Worldwide, automakers are yet to adopt a standard EV charging connector for all vehicle models. Accessibility especially for physically challenged drivers has also been raised in markets where EV ownership is growing.

“The four acquired EVs we are launching today will give the company first-hand experience and data on electric vehicles,” said Serem.

The four vehicles which include two SUVs and two double-cabin pickups will also act as a springboard to convert its entire fleet to electric from combustion engines enabling the company to save on fuel and maintenance costs.

“The development of e-mobility is an area that will require a multi-sectoral approach. Under the leadership of the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum and working together with key partners, we have no doubt that this transition will pick up pace faster than envisaged,” added Serem.

KenGen has already installed two EV charging stations in Nairobi and Naivasha and plans to install an additional three by end of next year in Murang’a, Embu, and Kisumu Counties within the company’s power plants.