Daniel Kiptoo the Director General Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has revealed that the number of Kenyans using electric vehicles has increased in the past years.
According to the DG, the number of electric vehicles imported into the country rose from 0.7 per cent in 2022 to 1.6 per cent in 2023.
"It is commendable that their financial options are available for EVs and this is encouraging their uptake in the market," Kiptoo stated.
While speaking during the launch of the 'Tusonge na EVs Campaign, on Monday, June 3, the DG disclosed that the increase can be attributed to the government's intervention in the industry.
He added that the tax incentives by the government had encouraged more Kenyans to adopt electric vehicles.
In 2023, the government introduced a special tariff for emobility which effect in April. It includes 16 per cent for peak hours and 8 per cent for off-peak hours.
Additionally, Kiptoo noted that some Kenyans who owned electric vehicles were thrilled by the affordability of the vehicles.
"Most owners were motivated by the potential of saving energy. At EPRA we have uncovered that EVs can save up to twice the cost of power compared to fuel-powered vehicles depending on the driving habits," he stated.
Another factor attracting Kenyans to electric vehicles is the increase in the adoption of the vehicles by both the private and public sectors.
The Director General added that the government was working to put in place measures that would establish a framework in the e-mobility industry. The government is set to invest in charging ports across the country for easy access.
"We are working with other government agencies to achieve this objective of e-mobility," he added.
In May, President William Ruto announced that the government would waive taxes for the first 100,000 electric vehicles manufacture in Kenya. This is part of the plan to phase out all fuel-powered vehicles and reduce emissions.
All EV vehicles will also have green-coloured number plates.
