Entrepreneurs in Nairobi make the case for going solar

Milcah Wanjiru runs her shop in Nairobi. She sells milk, bread, and milling services. Wanjiru's milling machine uses solar energy or grid electricity, reducing her fuel costs. Most of Kenya's power grid runs on renewables, but 25% of communities lack centralized electricity. The nation aims to deliver universal electricity access by 2030 without increasing emissions. Off-grid solar is key to achieving this goal. Agsol, a company based outside Nairobi, designed Wanjiru's mill. CEO Matt Carr says the mill can be up to 80% more profitable than diesel-powered models. Wanjiru has been using the machine since December 2025 and is happy with its performance. The initial cost of the mill is about $1,300, which takes six to 12 months to pay off. After that, the mill reduces Wanjiru's operating costs, allowing her to keep more of her earnings. Agsol launched its first product in 2018 and has raised over $4 million in investment. The company sold 530 units last year and has received orders from other African countries. Wanjiru's shop is an example of how solar energy can benefit small businesses in Kenya. By reducing their reliance on diesel fuel, entrepreneurs like Wanjiru can increase their profits and contribute to a cleaner environment. The Kenyan government supports the use of solar energy through various initiatives. The UK government has also provided funding for clean energy projects in the region. As the demand for off-grid solar solutions grows, companies like Agsol are playing a crucial role in providing affordable and efficient technology. The economics of solar technology have improved significantly in recent years. The cost of a solar panel has decreased from $3 per watt to just cents per watt. This reduction in cost has made solar energy more accessible to people in Kenya and other African countries. In addition to the economic benefits, solar energy also has environmental advantages. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions and helps to mitigate climate change. The use of solar energy in Kenya is not limited to small businesses. The country has a number of large-scale solar farms that generate electricity for the national grid. These solar farms are helping to increase the share of renewables in Kenya's energy mix. The Kenyan government has set a target of generating 70% of its electricity from renewables by 2030. To achieve this goal, the government is promoting the use of solar and wind energy. The private sector is also playing a key role in the development of Kenya's renewable energy sector. Companies like Agsol are investing in solar technology and providing innovative solutions for off-grid energy access. As the world transitions to a low-carbon economy, Kenya is well-positioned to become a leader in renewable energy. The country's abundant solar and wind resources make it an ideal location for clean energy projects. With the right policies and investments in place, Kenya can achieve its goal of universal electricity access and reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. The story of Milcah Wanjiru and her solar-powered grain mill is just one example of how solar energy is transforming lives in Kenya. As the demand for clean energy continues to grow, it is likely that we will see many more stories like Wanjiru's in the future. The future of energy in Kenya is bright, and it is being powered by the sun. In the coming years, we can expect to see even more innovative solutions for off-grid energy access. These solutions will help to increase access to electricity in rural areas and reduce the reliance on diesel fuel. The use of solar energy in Kenya is a win-win for the environment and the economy. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions and helps to promote economic development. As the world continues to transition to a low-carbon economy, Kenya is likely to remain at the forefront of the renewable energy sector. The country's commitment to clean energy is inspiring, and its progress is a model for other nations to follow. In the end, the story of Kenya's transition to a low-carbon economy is one of hope and opportunity. It shows that with the right policies and investments, it is possible to promote economic development while protecting the environment. The future of energy in Kenya is solar, and it is bright.