The move by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) to open up license applications for Kenyans seeking to put up electric vehicle (EV) charging and battery swapping stations is a milestone in the adoption of EVs.
It is indeed a great stride toward addressing the need to reduce carbon emissions that in turn lead to an increase in unforeseen climate change consequences. This solidifies a commitment to embracing electric vehicles that don’t rely on fossil fuels for operation since the sector alone accounts for 13% of total emissions yet it’s projected to rise.
Installations of EV chargers further cement the push by the government in the e-mobility agenda signaling the actualization of the unveiled EV Charging and Battery Swapping Infrastructure Guidelines, 2023. This unveiling is a motivation for the citizens to feel welcome as they are urged to embrace EVs more.
A statement by EPRA welcomed anyone interested in installing a public or private charging station or a battery swapping station at a place of their choice to apply for licensing. This license from EPRA will however require that all charging equipment has to be certified by the Kenya Bureau of Standards.
EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria said that guidelines like enabling the installation of these charging spots are essential in advancing the government’s e-mobility agenda. Citing that this would further instill confidence in the people as it contributes to positive investments in e-mobility.
“Overall, they ensure that charging infrastructure is accessible to all including persons with disability, and that they are affordable, that they are placed along major highways for long-distance travelers, and that there are guidelines for home charging ports among others,” said Mr. Kiptoo.
Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir revealed this innovation as one that steers Kenya to a step closer to energy efficiency where more power is consumed at off-peak times.
“Based on July 2023 data, the country has an available capacity of 2,254 megawatts against a peak demand of 2,164 megawatts and a demand of about 1,230 megawatts during off-peak hours,” the CS stated.
This is in relation to the fact that electric mobility has the potential to increase how efficiently Kenyans consume electricity, ensuring that idle capacity is utilized during the off-peak period.
“We have noted that about 70 percent of charging by most electric buses and motorbikes is done during the off-peak period,” Chirchir said.
