EPRA Pushes Regional Power Market to Cut Energy Costs, Boost Security

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) is advocating for deeper research-driven collaboration among African nations to strengthen energy security and resilience. This move is intended to position the continent as a competitive destination for energy investment, focusing on affordable and reliable power.

Speaking at the 7th Regional Research and Innovation Conference in Nairobi on April 21, 2026, EPRA Acting Director General Joseph Oketch stated that Africa’s energy future must be built on robust regional systems. These systems are necessary to withstand supply disruptions, price volatility, and the evolving demands of the global energy transition.

The conference, themed “Advancing Energy Affordability and Security in Sustainable Development,” brought together policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders. Attendees discussed pathways to balance growing energy demand with the need for a resilient energy sector.

Joseph Oketch noted that Eastern African countries are moving closer to a fully integrated electricity market. This development will allow for cross-border power trade at competitive prices, which is expected to improve efficiency across national grids.

The regulator emphasized that strengthening regional energy markets and standardizing pricing mechanisms are key to attracting investment. EPRA also highlighted the importance of introducing targeted policy incentives to scale access to affordable energy.

Joseph Oketch, who was appointed as Acting Director General on April 5, 2026, previously headed the Electricity and Renewable Energy Directorate. He brings over 25 years of experience in the energy sector, including prior roles at Kenya Power and the Rural Electrification Authority.

His appointment followed the resignation of former Director General Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria. The EPRA board has expressed confidence in the current leadership to steer the authority’s mandate, which includes setting electricity tariffs and enforcing industry standards.

Current data shows that electricity demand in Kenya has grown by over 8% in the past year. To address these rising needs, the government is exploring various infrastructure developments, including common-user import facilities for liquefied petroleum gas to lower handling costs.

Integrating regional supply and trade options into national power sector plans remains a priority for the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP). The launch of a regional day-ahead market is anticipated to further streamline electricity sales between member states.

By collaborating across sectors, the region aims to address vulnerabilities in energy supply chains. This strategy relies on building flexible, integrated systems informed by credible research and standardized bilateral power purchase agreements.