EPRA Invites Comments on Draft Net Metering Regulations

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has issued Gazette Notice No.232, inviting comments from the public on the Draft Net Metering Regulations. These regulations will allow anyone with a Retail Supply Licence to supply power to Kenya Power at an agreed tariff. The generation capacity in Net-Metering must be less than 1,000kW. This is an important step towards increasing access to renewable energy sources in Kenya, as it allows for small-scale generation of electricity from renewable sources such as solar and wind power. It also encourages individuals and businesses to invest in green energy solutions by allowing them to sell excess electricity generated back into the grid at an agreed rate. The proposed regulations are open for public comment until October 31st 2020, after which they will be reviewed by EPRA before being implemented nationwide. The regulations are expected to come into effect early 2021 if approved by EPRA following review of the comments received from the public. This move is part of a larger effort by EPRA to promote clean energy solutions in Kenya and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. It follows other initiatives such as the Feed-in Tariff Program launched earlier this year that incentivizes investments in renewable energy projects across the country through fixed prices for electricity produced from these sources. The introduction of net metering regulations is a welcome development for both consumers and businesses looking to invest in green energy solutions as it provides greater flexibility when it comes to generating their own electricity while still being able to benefit from selling any excess back into the grid at an agreed rate. This could potentially lead to more people investing in renewable energy projects, resulting in increased access to clean energy across Kenya and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels over time.