‘We are honored to join this climate-positive committee, which will play a crucial role in advancing the climate agenda, not just in Kenya but across Africa. KenGen’s extensive experience in renewable energy and carbon credit generation uniquely positions us to offer valuable insights and help shape a robust carbon market framework for Kenya’- KenGen’s Managing Director and CEO, Peter Njenga
Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) has been appointed to the prestigious Multi-Sectoral Technical Committee (MSTC), a high-level body responsible for shaping the future of Kenya’s carbon market. The three-year appointment, effective November 22, 2024, was announced by the Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Hon. Aden Duale, through a gazette notice.
This significant role positions KenGen at the forefront of advancing Africa’s carbon trading landscape and creating new opportunities in the global fight against climate change. Reacting to the announcement, KenGen’s Managing Director and CEO, Peter Njenga, welcomed the appointment, describing it as a timely recognition of the company’s longstanding commitment to sustainable development.
“We are honored to join this climate-positive committee, which will play a crucial role in advancing the climate agenda, not just in Kenya but across Africa. KenGen’s extensive experience in renewable energy and carbon credit generation uniquely positions us to offer valuable insights and help shape a robust carbon market framework for Kenya,” said Eng. Njenga.
He added, “This appointment underscores KenGen’s leadership in clean energy innovation, driving sustainable solutions that power our nation while contributing to global climate action.”
The MSTC appointment is made under the Climate Change Act, of 2013, and the newly enacted Climate Change (Carbon Markets) Regulations, 2024. The committee’s primary responsibility is to provide technical advice to Kenya’s Designated National Authority (National Environment Management Authority, NEMA) on carbon project assessments, ensuring alignment with international climate standards while promoting local expertise and innovation.
KenGen’s inclusion in the MSTC aligns with the company’s strategic emphasis on renewable energy. With over 90% of its electricity generated from clean sources like geothermal, hydro, and wind, KenGen is already a leader in clean energy. The company has also earned 6.9 million carbon credits from six Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects registered under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), including the Olkaria II Geothermal Expansion, Tana Hydro Power Station Redevelopment, and Ngong Wind Project.
The formation of the MSTC is a key step in facilitating Kenya’s entry into the global carbon market, enabling public and private entities to trade emission reduction units, offsets, and other mitigation outcomes. This framework is expected to unlock significant investments in climate projects, driving sustainable economic growth while supporting Kenya’s commitments to national and international climate targets.
Through its participation in the MSTC, KenGen aims to help strengthen Kenya’s position as a leader in both climate action and green energy, supporting the growth of a carbon economy that benefits local communities and the environment.
