Kenya has marked a major milestone in its agenda for energy equity and innovation with the official opening of the 6th Annual Research and Innovation Conference hosted by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
Hosted in Nairobi on Tuesday, this year’s conference, themed ‘Energy Access’, has attracted over 500 participants, including energy experts, researchers, regulators, students and international guests, making it one of the most comprehensive forums in the region focused on policy-driven and data-informed energy solutions.
The event was officially opened by the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Energy and Petroleum, James Opiyo Wandayi, who emphasized that energy access must be more than infrastructure and must empower lives and transform communities.
“Energy access is not just about megawatts. It’s about moments: a child turning on a light to study, a health worker powering equipment to save a life, and a woman running a business that supports her family. These are the real outcomes we are working for,” highlighted Wandayi.
He praised EPRA’s role in facilitating the annual gathering and reiterated the Ministry’s support for a research-based, inclusive and transformative energy agenda.
In his remarks, EPRA Director General (DG) Daniel Kiptoo highlighted the Authority’s efforts in championing innovation and policy reform in the energy sector.
He noted that the diversity of ideas and presenters at this year’s forum reflects Kenya’s dynamic energy landscape.
“Every research paper presented here has the potential to ignite policy shifts, attract investment, and drive real technological transformation. Innovation must work for every Kenyan, from the pastoralists in Turkana to entrepreneurs in Kisumu and students in Machakos,” he outlined.
The conference, which will run from June 3rd to 5th, features expert panels, policy discussions and exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge solutions in electric mobility, clean cooking, renewable energy, solar desalination, sector resilience and oil and gas investments.
For the first time, the forum includes a Women in Energy Forum and a Youth Research Showcase, reflecting EPRA’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity in energy leadership.
Participants from across East Africa, including representatives from academic institutions, development partners and private sector innovators, are attending either physically or virtually.
“This is not just a talk-shop. We expect outcomes that will shape regulation, inspire partnerships, and scale up innovation,” said George Wanga, the Chairperson of the EPRA Board.
The conference aligns with Kenya’s long-term development agenda under Vision 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and global climate action frameworks such as the Paris Agreement.
By Gabriel Mwangi
