Kenya’s Electric Vehicle Surge: Embracing E-Mobility Amid Global Growth
Kenya is experiencing a sharp increase in electric vehicle adoption, paralleling a global trend where EV sales grew by 25% in 2024, reaching over 17 million units. China drives this market, contributing nearly two-thirds of sales, while emerging markets show significant growth. Kenya’s electric mobility sector consumption surged by 466%, though it remains a small percentage of total energy use.
Kenya is witnessing a significant rise in the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and motorcycles, following a global trend towards e-mobility. The International Energy Agency (IEA) noted a remarkable increase in global EV sales, which grew by 25% in 2024, reaching over 17 million units, up from under 14 million the previous year. This surge highlights a growing commitment to climate action and sustainability on a global scale.
China has emerged as the leading force in electric vehicle sales, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the total, with an impressive annual growth rate of about 40%. Moreover, emerging markets and developing economies outside of China recorded an outstanding 80% yearly increase in EV sales. Such trends illustrate a broadening acceptance of electric mobility.
In Kenya, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) reported a staggering 466% increase in energy consumption within its electric mobility sector during the last six months of 2024. Energy consumption escalated from 0.32 GWh in the same timeframe the previous year to 1.81 GWh. Despite this remarkable growth, e-mobility accounts for only 0.03% of the total energy consumed in the country.
The report indicated that industrial users are the predominant consumers of electricity in Kenya, consuming 2,807.10 GWh, representing 51.18% of total energy consumption. Domestic consumers were next, using 1,728.19 GWh, while small commercial enterprises consumed 902.94 GWh. Conversely, street lighting consumption declined, indicating a shift in energy usage priorities across sectors.
Out of Kenya’s total energy consumption, the industrial sector continues to demonstrate robust growth, attributed to increased industrial activity. As Kenya embraces e-mobility, it is essential to continue expanding its infrastructure and fostering environments conducive to the growth of electric mobility and renewable energy.
In summary, Kenya is aligning with a global surge in electric vehicle adoption, characterized by a substantial increase in energy consumption in the e-mobility sector. Although the country’s share in total energy consumption from electric mobility remains minuscule, the industrial sector’s dominance showcases the potential for future energy diversification. Continued support for e-mobility initiatives can foster sustainable growth in Kenya’s transport sector.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
