Relief for Households as Kenya Cancels Planned Electricity Price Hike

The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum has announced the withdrawal of a retail electricity tariff review application submitted by the Kenya Power and Lighting Company on March 31, 2026, maintaining current electricity prices for consumers across the country.

In a press release dated June 3, 2026, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the decision was reached following consultations within the government and engagements with key stakeholders in the energy sector.

“The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum wishes to inform the public that, following consultations within Government and engagement with key sector stakeholders, the retail electricity tariff review application submitted on 31st March 2026 by KPLC has been withdrawn,” read part of the press release.

Wandayi noted that maintaining the current tariff structure is intended to safeguard livelihoods, support economic growth, and create a favorable environment for job creation.

Ministry of Energy Says Electricity Prices Remain Unchanged

He also highlighted that the move reflects the government’s commitment to balancing the long-term sustainability of the energy sector with the need to protect consumers from additional financial burdens.

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Wandayi stated that the withdrawal is expected to provide relief to households and businesses that had been concerned about the possibility of higher electricity bills.

In addition, the Ministry of Energy clarified on the legal and regulatory framework governing electricity tariff reviews in Kenya, arguing that, under the Energy Act, 2019, any adjustment of electricity tariffs must undergo a comprehensive process.

This includes the submission of an application to the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, technical evaluations, stakeholder consultations, and public participation.

The law further requires tariff-setting decisions to be guided by principles such as transparency, fairness, consumer protection, cost recovery, and the long-term reliability of electricity supply.

Kenyans Appreciated After Public Participation

The ministry stated that the withdrawal of the tariff review application will not affect electricity service delivery.

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Wandayi highlighted that Consumers and businesses will continue to receive uninterrupted electricity services under the current tariff structure.

“The withdrawal of the application does not affect the continued delivery of electricity services. Consumers and businesses should continue to enjoy uninterrupted access to electricity under the current tariff structure,’ read part of the release.

Additionally, the ministry thanked consumers, industry players, and members of the public for their participation and feedback throughout the review process.

It further assured Kenyans that they would continue to receive timely updates on any future policy or regulatory developments affecting the energy sector.

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A photo of kenya power building . Photo/ file