Solar
Grid-Tied Solar and Net Metering in Kenya: What You Need to Know
Short answer
If your solar system can send power back into the Kenya Power network, it must be approved and metered correctly. Reporting on the Energy (Net-Metering) Regulations, 2024 describes limits for domestic systems and a net-metering agreement with a bidirectional meter, and says unauthorised export can be charged at the base tariff. Rules change, so confirm current requirements with Kenya Power before you design for export.
What net metering is
Net metering lets a customer with a solar system export surplus power to the grid and receive credit against future consumption. It needs a formal agreement, an approved system and a meter that records power flowing in both directions.
What recent reporting says
The points below summarise recent press reporting as of October 2026. They are not legal advice, and you should confirm details with Kenya Power and EPRA.
- The Energy (Net-Metering) Regulations, 2024 are reported to be in force, covering renewable systems below 1 MW.
- Domestic limits are reported as 4 kW for single-phase and 10 kW for three-phase connections, with commercial and industrial systems allowed larger sizes under conditions.
- Exporters are reported to receive credit for 50% of each unit exported, with credits carried forward during the billing year.
- Systems above 10 kW are reported to need a feasibility study prepared by an engineer.
- A tariff amendment gazetted on 18 September 2026 reportedly defines unauthorised export as "dumping" and allows it to be charged at the base tariff.
What this means for your system
- If you want to export: apply through an installer and Kenya Power, sign the agreement and have a bidirectional meter fitted before the system exports.
- If you do not want to export: design the system with a zero-export (export limiting) setting so no power flows back. A good hybrid inverter can do this.
- If you only use solar for backup: a hybrid system with batteries can be designed to keep solar power inside your building.
Steps to get a grid-tied system approved
- Get a site survey and a design that states whether the system will export.
- Confirm your supply type (single or three-phase) and the system size limits that apply.
- Submit the application through your licensed installer to Kenya Power.
- Wait for assessment and sign the net-metering agreement if exporting.
- Have the bidirectional meter installed and the system commissioned.
Why this matters
Unapproved export can lead to charges and can cause safety and stability issues on the network. Working with a licensed installer, like the ones described in how to choose a solar installer, helps you stay compliant.
Common questions
Can I sell my solar power to Kenya Power?
Only under an approved net-metering connection, with credit rather than a cash feed-in tariff as reported. Do not export without approval.
What is zero-export?
A setting on the inverter that limits output so that no power flows into the grid. It keeps your system within your site.
Do hybrid systems need approval?
If they can export to the grid, yes. If configured not to export, requirements may differ. Confirm with Kenya Power for your connection.