Small hydropower in Kenya

Hydropower plays a key role in Kenya’s path to energy self-sufficiency and environmental sustainability. Thanks to a stable and renewable source of electricity, it not only ensures security of supply, but also supports economic development and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Czech company Renfin wants to build on this potential and, with the support of the Czech Development Agency’s B2B Programme, is preparing the first concrete steps to invest in small hydropower plants in this East African country.

In recent years, Kenya has been trying to fully exploit its potential in the field of renewable energy sources. Hydropower plants form the cornerstone of the energy mix here – they are a stable and reliable source of electricity that helps cover the so-called base load of the grid. This means that even when the wind is not blowing or the sun is not shining, hydropower can continue to reliably supply households and industry. This reduces dependence on expensive and imported fossil fuels, the prices of which often fluctuate, which also affects the final price of electricity.

All this has not escaped the attention of the Czech company Renfin, which has been specializing in the preparation and construction of small hydropower plants (SHPs) in East Africa for several years. Following its successful operation in neighboring Uganda, the company decided to focus on Kenya. Between 2021 and 2024, two pilot projects were prepared in Uganda – Cheptui (9.5 MW) and Mihunga (8.5 MW) – which are already approaching the construction phase. Renfin wants to transfer this experience to the Kenyan environment.

“The importance of hydropower plants goes beyond energy production itself. The creation of new projects in this area brings jobs, infrastructure development and better living conditions for local residents. In addition, hydropower plants produce minimal emissions, which is in line with Kenya’s international climate commitments. This is precisely why they are becoming an important tool in the fight against climate change – both locally and globally,” says Jan Tošnar from Renfin.