Kenyans will soon be allowed to produce and sell power to their neighbours after the government published the Net-Metering Regulations 2022 for public participation.
In the game-changing proposals, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) indicated that the new regulations would apply to Kenyans producing renewable energy not exceeding one megawatt.
The regulations upon approval will cover energy produced from biogas, hydropower, geothermal and solar.
"The onsite installed capacity of a Renewable Energy system for a Prosumer entering into a Net-Metering System Agreement shall not exceed 1,000 kW (1 MW) and be capped at the maximum load demand in kW of the 12 months preceding application for net metering," the regulations read in part.
However, Kenyans willing to sell power will have to enter into an agreement with the government before being allowed to connect their power to the grid.
It was explained that the agreement would prevent unscrupulous dealers from exploiting the system to make more money.
"A person wishing to operate a Net-metering System shall make an application to the licensee through the Authority in the form set out upon payment of non-refundable fees.
"The fees payable shall be proposed by the Licensee and approved by the Authority from time to time."
The consideration for an application will take 60 days with various agencies expected to conduct feasibility studies of the power plant and the area.
Additionally, the government ruled out offering prepaid services under the regulations.
"Meters for Net-metering Systems shall Be able to measure and record peak supply in different periods, type approved and duly calibrated by the Kenya Bureau of Standards(KEBS) and provide for time-of-use metering."
Upon approval, EPRA added that it would gazette tariffs that would govern fees to be paid under the new framework.
