Nairobi: Kenya has marked a major milestone in its agenda for energy equity and innovation with the official opening of the 6th Annual Research and Innovation Conference hosted by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
According to Kenya News Agency, this year’s conference, themed ‘Energy Access’, has attracted over 500 participants, including energy experts, researchers, regulators, students, and international guests. It has become one of the most comprehensive forums in the region focused on policy-driven and data-informed energy solutions.
The event was officially opened by the Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, James Opiyo Wandayi, who emphasized that energy access must be more than infrastructure and should empower lives and transform communities. He highlighted that energy access is about creating meaningful impacts, such as enabling a child to study by turning on a light, powering medical equipment for health workers, and supporting women running businesses.
Wandayi praised EPRA’s role in facilitating the annual gathering and reiterated the Ministry’s support for a research-based, inclusive, and transformative energy agenda. In his remarks, EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo highlighted the Authority’s efforts in championing innovation and policy reform in the energy sector. He pointed out that the diversity of ideas and presenters at this year’s forum reflects Kenya’s dynamic energy landscape.
The conference, which will run from June 3rd to 5th, features expert panels, policy discussions, and exhibitions showcasing solutions in electric mobility, clean cooking, renewable energy, solar desalination, sector resilience, and oil and gas investments. For the first time, the forum includes a Women in Energy Forum and a Youth Research Showcase, reflecting EPRA’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity in energy leadership.
Participants from across East Africa, including representatives from academic institutions, development partners, and private sector innovators, are attending either physically or virtually. George Wanga, the Chairperson of the EPRA Board, stated that the conference is not just a talk-shop but is expected to yield outcomes that will shape regulation, inspire partnerships, and scale up innovation.
The conference aligns with Kenya’s long-term development agenda under Vision 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and global climate action frameworks such as the Paris Agreement.