Kenya has unveiled a new policy framework that will require developers of commercial properties to allocate at least five per cent of parking space for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, as the country steps up efforts to accelerate the adoption of clean transport.
The requirement is anchored in the newly launched National E-Mobility Policy, which was unveiled on Tuesday at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi. The policy also introduces a specialised off-peak electricity tariff for EV charging, aimed at lowering costs and encouraging wider uptake by businesses and motorists.
The launch was presided over by Transport and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir and attended by senior government officials and industry stakeholders, including Principal Secretary for Energy and Petroleum Eng. Joseph Mbugua.
The policy provides a comprehensive framework to guide the transition to electric mobility, with a focus on expanding charging infrastructure, promoting local innovation, improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions from the transport sector.
Officials said the mandatory allocation of parking space for EV chargers in new commercial developments is designed to address one of the biggest barriers to electric mobility — limited and unreliable charging infrastructure.
“The policy sends a clear signal to investors and developers that electric mobility is no longer a niche concept but a core part of Kenya’s future transport system,” said Eng. Mbugua, noting that access to affordable and reliable charging will be critical to scaling up EV adoption.The specialised off-peak electricity tariff is expected to encourage charging during periods of low demand, easing pressure on the grid while taking advantage of Kenya’s renewable-energy-dominated power mix.
Under the policy, the government aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions, reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and stimulate the growth of local manufacturing, assembly and innovation hubs for electric mobility technologies.
Kenya generates most of its electricity from renewable sources, including geothermal, hydro and wind, giving it a strategic advantage in transitioning to electric transport with a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional vehicles.
Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar, Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira and Investments Principal Secretary Abubakar Hassan were among senior officials in attendance, alongside Germany’s Ambassador to Kenya, Sebastian Groth, and other national dignitaries.
The government said the policy positions Kenya as a regional leader in sustainable transport and climate action, while laying the groundwork for private sector investment in EVs, charging infrastructure and associated services across the country.
