Off-Grid Electrification Using Renewable Energy: Missed Windows of Opportunity for Small Wind Policy in Kenya

Abstract

Different pathways have been used to achieve rural electrification in developing countries, including grid connections, stand-alone solutions and mini-grids. While mini-grids in many cases are identified as the optimal option, the factors that influence the choice of technology are not well-defined. This paper investigates the effect of policies on the choice of technology for rural electrification, and specifically, the limited use of small-scale wind-powered technology for electrifying marginal areas in Kenya. We used the Multiple Streams Framework to analyse data on the dynamics of policy related to small wind for rural electrification in Kenya. The analysis identifies a constellation of factors that disfavoured a policy window that could enhance the use of small wind in rural electrification. The factors include the absence of policy targets, data and feasibility studies, and limited skills and capabilities. Addressing these factors could be an important step in opening a policy window for policy change towards small wind, particularly, solar/wind hybrids in rural electrification. More broadly, we argue for the need to increase awareness on policy gaps on small wind to achieve universal access to electrification in rural and marginalized areas.