Q&A: Research will fast-track Kenya's solar and battery adoption

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Kenya plans to achieve universal electricity access by 2030, through on-grid and off-grid solutions. To support this goal, the domestic manufacturing of renewable energy technologies is essential. We discussed this topic with Gloria Katunge and Paul Kariuki from LixGlo Ventures Ltd, a consultancy specialising in solar-powered water pumping solutions.

• They emphasise that for Kenya to manufacture its own solar cell and battery components and thereby accelerate electrification, investment in research centres, tax incentives, and stronger policy support are essential.

• Gloria Katunge is the founder of LixGlo Ventures Limited and a PhD scholar at the University of Nairobi. Her research is focused on alternative materials for solar panels. She also trains solar energy professionals at the university's Solar Academy.

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Why is research into new solar materials important for affordable renewable energy in Kenya?

Gloria: Most solar panels today rely on silicon material, which, while widely used, has limitations in terms of cost and efficiency. My PhD research focuses on exploring alternative materials, such as perovskites, that offer the potential to be both more affordable and more efficient than silicon. If successful, these innovations could drastically reduce the cost of solar panels, making clean energy more accessible to more Kenyans, particularly in underserved and off-grid communities.

How can research outcomes be turned into real-world solutions for everyday Kenyans?

Gloria: The goal is to move beyond the lab and bring innovation to the people. If my research leads to viable new solar materials, we can patent the technology and partner with local manufacturers to produce solar panels here in Kenya. This would not only lower costs by reducing dependence on imported components but also create jobs, build local capacity, and accelerate access to affordable, clean energy, especially in off-grid and rural communities.

Your company installs solar-powered water pumps. How are they better alternatives to traditional pumps?

Paul: Solar-powered pumps offer a cleaner, more cost-effective alternative to diesel systems. They eliminate fuel costs, reduce maintenance, and are ideal for areas without reliable grid access. Over time, they deliver significant savings while supporting sustainable water access.

Gloria: Beyond cost savings, solar pumps are environmentally friendly and well-suited to Kenya’s abundant sunlight (located within the tropics). By using modular designs, we make the systems scalable. Clients can start small and expand over time. This approach lowers the entry barrier while ensuring long-term reliability and efficiency.

What about the high cost of solar batteries? Can research help here, too?

Gloria: Absolutely. The high price of batteries remains one of the biggest hurdles to widespread solar adoption, especially in remote areas where reliable nighttime power is essential. With some batteries costing up to $3,000, many households simply can’t afford them. That’s why research is focusing on developing affordable, efficient alternatives, like iron-ion batteries, made from materials readily available locally. By lowering battery costs without sacrificing performance, we can make solar energy practical and accessible for millions of Kenyans, both in rural communities and urban centres.

How does research support local manufacturing and policy change?

Gloria: Research lays the groundwork for local manufacturing by creating technologies that use materials and skills available within the country. With government investment in research centres and supportive policies like tax incentives, we can empower local companies to produce solar panels and batteries domestically, which can help drive down costs. Strong policy support is essential to scaling these innovations and making renewable energy affordable and accessible to everyone.

Paul: The government should also train more solar technicians, not just for installation but for component manufacturing. Lowering taxes on imported raw materials for solar components is also essential.

What’s the future outlook for research-driven renewable energy in Kenya?

Gloria: I’m optimistic. With sustained investment in research and strong collaboration between academia, industry, and government, Kenya has the potential to become a regional leader in affordable and efficient renewable energy solutions. This progress will be key to closing the energy access gap and fueling sustainable economic growth across the country.