On February 29, 2024, the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) announced that the cost of electricity increased by 37 per cent in 2023, with the price projected to increase over the coming years.
To put it into perspective, the price of 50 Kilowatts (KW) of electricity increased by 42.7 per cent while the price of 200 Kilowatts rose by 31.8 per cent. 50 KW in this case, can power a water heating system, cooking, and washing machine among other household appliances.
Besides high electricity prices, Kenyans have also had to contend with frequent blackouts over the last year.
These factors combined, have precipitated a desire amongst Kenyans to switch to solar power systems with one eye on saving costs.
Several Kenyans have already resorted to this, installing solar systems in their houses which serve as a much needed mainstream option or alternative.
Requirements
Those seeking to install the system at their house will be required to consider the cost of setting up.
Among the equipment needed includes; photovoltaic panels (PV panels), a racking system, electrical wiring components, batteries, a charge controller, a power inverter and roof sealant.
Some users also opt to install a heat sink and an energy metre.
Costs
Experts observe that the price of installing solar power is capital intensive, but this ends up being more beneficial in the long run considering the low maintenance costs.
"Solar power depending on the intended use can be expensive to install but once it's complete, maintenance is close to nil," electrical engineer James Ogutu stated in a past interview with Kenyans.co.ke.
For a standard household, users require a solar power system with a capacity of up to 5,000 watts on average. Most retailers charge Ksh100 per watt, translating to Ksh500,000 in installation.
Others, however, argue that the price can be lowered depending on the requirements needed. Hence the price can be reduced by half to cost around Ksh250,000.
"The cost varies because if one needs more power, it means more solar panels and batteries," Ogutu noted.
Observers, however, voiced concerns that the installation costs essentially lock out the poor households due to the associated high cost. The systems albeit are more effective for users with low power connectivity.
Additionally, the systems come in handy during blackouts, hence most argue that it is a worthwhile investment,
To solve the issue of high installation fees, experts recommend users to purchase solar systems from companies that offer subscriptions for solar installation whereby one can pay a certain figure and after some time, they own the solar system.
