Lilian Nyiva
The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum has withdrawn an application seeking a review of retail electricity tariffs, a move that means consumers will continue paying electricity rates under the current tariff structure. The withdrawal halts a process that had sparked public debate over the possibility of higher power costs for households, businesses, and manufacturers. The review was part of a wider tariff application submitted to the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) for consideration during the 2026/27 to 2028/29 tariff control period.
Proposed Tariff Changes Put on Hold
In recent weeks, EPRA had announced plans to conduct public participation forums across the country to gather views on proposed retail electricity tariff adjustments. The consultations were expected to inform decisions on electricity pricing for the next three years.
The tariff application had been submitted on behalf of key players in the electricity sector, including Kenya Power, Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO), the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), and the Geothermal Development Company (GDC).
Consumers Continue With Existing Rates
With the withdrawal of the application, consumers will continue to be billed under the existing electricity tariff framework that came into effect in July 2025. The decision is expected to provide temporary relief to households and businesses already facing increased living and operating costs.
However, electricity bills will still be subject to the monthly adjustments approved by EPRA, including fuel cost charges, foreign exchange fluctuation adjustments, and other statutory levies that affect the final amount paid by consumers.
Sector Awaits Next Steps
The withdrawal raises questions about the future of the planned tariff review and whether a revised application will be submitted at a later date. EPRA remains the statutory body responsible for reviewing and approving electricity tariffs in Kenya through public participation and regulatory processes.
For now, the decision means households, traders, and industries will not face changes to the base electricity tariffs that had been proposed under the review process, offering a measure of certainty over power costs in the short term.
