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Households across the country are set to pay more for electricity in May 2026 after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) introduced new additional charges on power bills.
In a Gazette Notice on May 15, EPRA announced adjustments that include a higher foreign exchange fluctuation charge, fuel energy cost charge, and a water levy.
All this will increase the overall cost of electricity consumption in May.
EPRA stated that consumers will incur a Foreign Exchange Fluctuation Adjustment of 110.33 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh).
EPRA Explains Increase
The charge is intended to recover exchange rate losses incurred by electricity producers and suppliers that rely on foreign currency-denominated loans, fuel imports, and power purchase agreements.
According to EPRA, the exchange losses recorded in April 2026 amounted to about KSh1.17 billion.
EPRA attributed the losses to power generators, including Kenya Electricity Generating Company, independent power producers, and the Epic diesel plant.
Consumers will also pay a Fuel Energy Cost Charge of KSh3.06 per kWh for all electricity meter readings taken in May.
Also Read: Blow to Motorists as Global Oil Price Increase After EPRA Review
Diesel Powered Plants
EPRA explained that the charge is linked to the cost of diesel and thermal power generation, particularly in remote regions that depend on diesel-powered plants.
Desel prices in areas such as Habaswein rose sharply in April, contributing to the increase in fuel-related electricity costs, according to EPRA.
Counties that rely heavily on thermal generation, including Turkana, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu, are among those affected by the rising fuel costs.
In addition, a Water Resource Management Authority levy of Ksh1.35 per kWh will apply to electricity generated from large hydroelectric plants under the Seven Forks scheme along the Tana River.
Also Read: Pain at the Pump: EPRA Announces Sharp Fuel Price Hike Starting May 15
Areas Affected
The levy affects hydro stations located in counties such as Machakos, Embu, Kitui, Murang’a, and Kiambu.
EPRA indicated that the charge only applies to electricity generated from hydro sources and not the entire power bill.
The latest adjustments come amid rising fuel prices, with the cost of Super Petrol and Diesel also increasing in the latest monthly review, adding further pressure on household expenses.
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EPRA Director General Joseph Oketch. PHOTO/Joseph Oketch
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