Electricification options for underserved populations in Kenya's ASAL regions using Energy Access Explorer

Kenya has achieved an electricity access rate of approximately 76.2%, yet access remains unevenly distributed. The remaining unserved population is largely concentrated in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), where poverty, low population density, and high service delivery costs limit electrification. This study applies the Energy Access Explorer (EAE) to assess electrification options for poor and underserved populations in ASAL regions, with subsidies treated as a cross-cutting instrument across grid, mini-grid, and stand-alone solutions.

The analysis shows that grid extension, government-owned mini-grids, private mini-grids, and stand-alone solar systems all play complementary roles, but none are affordable for poor households without public support. Government-owned systems apply the national uniform tariff through cross-subsidisation, while private mini-grids often charge higher cost-reflective tariffs. The study recommends technology-neutral subsidies guided by spatial data to ensure equitable access.