Kenya charts nuclear path to boost power

Kenya will incorporate nuclear energy into its electricity mix as part of a broader strategy to expand generation capacity to 10,000 megawatts, President William Ruto has said, signalling a shift in policy aimed at supporting industrial growth and stabilising long-term energy supply.

The announcement reflects mounting pressure on the East African economy to secure reliable and affordable power as demand rises across manufacturing, digital infrastructure and urban expansion. Kenya’s current installed capacity stands at roughly 3,300MW, with a heavy reliance on renewable sources such as geothermal, hydro and wind, alongside thermal generation.

Ruto’s remarks position nuclear energy as a complement rather than a replacement for renewables, underscoring a diversification approach that policymakers argue is essential to cushion the grid from climate-related disruptions. Periods of drought have at times strained hydroelectric output, while variability in wind and solar generation continues to present balancing challenges for the national grid.

Officials have indicated that the nuclear programme will be spearheaded by the Kenya Nuclear Electricity Board, which has been conducting feasibility studies, site assessments and regulatory groundwork for several years. The agency has identified potential coastal locations as viable for hosting reactors, citing access to cooling water and proximity to transmission infrastructure.

Kenya’s push into nuclear energy aligns with a broader continental trend, as several African economies explore atomic power to bridge persistent electricity deficits. Countries including Egypt and South Africa have already advanced nuclear projects, while others remain in preparatory phases. Analysts note that Kenya’s entry into this space could reshape regional energy dynamics, particularly within the East African Power Pool, where cross-border electricity trade is expanding.

The government’s target of 10,000MW forms part of a long-term development blueprint aimed at transforming Kenya into a middle-income industrial economy. Energy planners argue that without a significant increase in baseload capacity, ambitions in sectors such as manufacturing, electric mobility and data centres may face constraints. Nuclear power, with its ability to provide continuous, low-carbon electricity, is being presented as a solution to that gap.

Critics, however, point to the high upfront costs, lengthy construction timelines and regulatory complexity associated with nuclear projects. Financing remains a key hurdle, with projects often requiring multi-billion-dollar investments and long-term commitments from both public and private stakeholders. Concerns have also been raised about safety, waste management and the need for a robust institutional framework to oversee operations.

Government officials maintain that these risks can be mitigated through international partnerships and adherence to global safety standards. Kenya has engaged with agencies such as the International Atomic Energy Agency for technical guidance, while also exploring collaborations with countries that have established nuclear industries. Capacity-building initiatives, including training programmes for engineers and regulators, are already under way.

Energy experts suggest that nuclear development in Kenya will likely follow a phased approach, beginning with preparatory infrastructure and regulatory systems before moving to reactor construction. Small modular reactors are also being considered as a potential option, given their lower capital requirements and shorter deployment timelines compared with traditional large-scale plants.

At the same time, Kenya continues to expand its renewable portfolio, particularly geothermal energy, which accounts for a significant share of its electricity generation. The country is regarded as a global leader in geothermal development, with projects in the Rift Valley contributing to relatively low-carbon power generation. Wind and solar capacity have also grown, supported by private investment and government incentives.

The integration of nuclear power into this mix is expected to provide a stable baseload that complements intermittent renewables, reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based thermal plants. This could help Kenya meet its climate commitments while ensuring energy security in the face of rising demand.

Industry observers note that public acceptance will be a crucial factor in determining the pace of nuclear adoption. Outreach campaigns and transparent communication are expected to play a central role in addressing concerns and building confidence among communities near proposed project sites.