Lessons learned from 100% Renewables Cities and Regions Roadmap Project – from concept to implementation

Taking the learnings from the 100% Renewables Cities and Regions Roadmap (or 100% RE) project, we will host a panel discussion of our Kenyan experts and counterparts from the 100% RE project – from local authorities to national level stakeholders – and lead a discussion around some of the barriers and enablers of implementing a roadmap towards 100% renewable energy in the county of Kisumu.

Host: ICLEI Africa

Cape Town, South Africa

Session Summary

Taking the learnings from the 100% Renewables Cities and Regions Roadmap (or 100% RE) project currently being implemented, this session hosted a panel discussion of ICLEI’s Kenyan experts and counterparts from the 100% RE project – from local authorities to national level stakeholders – and coordinate a discussion around some of the barriers and enablers to transitioning to 100%RE in Kenya, particularly in Kisumu, Mombasa and Nakuru counties. Barriers noted by Kenyan national and local government officials, amongst others included: data gaps and financial constraints to accessing available data; insufficient energy planning; as well as inadequate human and financial resources to support the transition to 100% RE. Interestingly, 100% RE global project partners noted that globally, financial resources supporting the move towards renewables are indeed available but are sitting with investors. This means, their renewable potential in Kenya may need to be shaped to attract these funding opportunities. Various enabling factors were noted to enhance the transition to renewables in Kenya and selected counties. Such enablers included the value of incorporating a mission statement for team members ensuring consistent progress; Involving an array of stakeholders/ partners from various organizations, institutions along the way; and importantly the presence of sound regulatory frameworks were noted to significantly drive progress in the move towards renewable energy.