4 September 2008
editorial
Nairobi — At a time when Kenyans are reeling under the weight of electricity bills run amok, it is bizarre that the national power producer and the national distributor are haggling over how to share the takings.
It is indeed scary to think that whatever way the Energy Tribunal rules in the case filed by the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) against the Kenya Power Lighting Company and the Energy Regulatory Commission, the end result could be higher bills for consumers.
Each of the parties indeed suggested at the concluded tribunal that it would seek to pass on to the consumer any need for additional revenue, if it does not get its way.
When elephants fight, goes a well-known saying, it is the grass that suffers. Kenyan power consumers, ranging from small households to giant conglomerates, are all feeling the pinch of power prices that are clearly unsustainable.
This country will not attain its development objectives if the cost of power is prohibitive.
Economic and social indicators of any country are measured partly on the availability, reliability and reach of the power supply.
As it is, many consumers may be forced to switch off the lights.
We simply cannot afford to be in darkness, so as the two behemoths fight, it is time the virtual monopolies were broken and other players encouraged to enter both the power production and distribution fields.
The country must make a conscious push towards alternative energy sources. There must be greater investment in solar, wind and other forms of energy.
There is also a lot to learn from other countries in the development of mini energy plants within small localities.
Already in some rural areas in Kenya, there are pioneering efforts in mini-hydro-electric projects and the use of biomass.
These are the efforts that must be encouraged with investment, tax breaks and technical support if we are to break away from monopolies that are more focused and fighting over money, than in ensuring available and affordable electricity.
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