Solar energy is a renewable source of energy that is created by collecting solar radiation and turning it into electrical power. Solar energy is a necessary alternative for powering buildings, both residential and commercial. It is clean, abundant, and accessible.

In a world where fossil fuel reduction is a worry and energy consumption is rising, sources of clean energy like solar energy are becoming more and more critical. A noteworthy benefit of solar energy is its widespread availability and abundance, which makes it a sustainable and eco-friendly substitute for fossil fuels.

Moreover, solar energy is flexible and may be utilized for both big and small-scale projects, including lighting up individual houses or entire cities. Furthermore, improvements in solar technology have lowered the cost and increased the accessibility of solar energy through the creation of more efficient solar panels and energy storage systems. As a result, solar energy is growing in popularity as a way for people and companies to lessen their carbon footprint and support a more sustainable future.

Why solar energy is the preferred source of clean energy in Kenya

Solar energy is the preferred source of energy in Kenya. Below are several factors that contribute to the prominence of solar energy in Kenya;

Cost-effective

The main advantage of solar energy in Kenya is cost savings. Solar energy is an inexpensive option for power generation because it doesn’t require any fuel or chemical inputs. Aside from the initial installation expense, solar energy is also free, which can significantly lower electricity costs.

Plenty of Solar Resources

Kenya benefits significantly from its proximity to the equator when it comes to solar energy harvesting. Because sunshine is abundant in the nation all year round, solar energy is a dependable and effective energy source. Therefore, Kenya has a lot of solar resources, which means the country has a robust solar energy industry that provides a significant portion of its energy needs.

Energy Accessibility and Reliability

Access to electricity is scarce in many Kenyan rural communities. In Kenya, solar energy is also essential for supplying energy to isolated and off-grid regions. Solar power is a decentralized option that may be implemented fast and effectively for the many rural villages across the country that lack access to electricity. These communities can get dependable electricity from solar panels mounted on rooftops or in small-scale solar farms. This increases the dependability of their energy supply and lessens their reliance on conventional energy sources.

Reduced Environmental Impact

One clean, renewable energy source is solar energy. Solar energy produces no greenhouse gases when in use, making it clean and renewable. For a country like Kenya, which is already experiencing the adverse effects of climate change, like droughts and floods, this helps to moderate climate change and reduce air pollution.

Solar energy produces no greenhouse gases when in use, making it clean and renewable. For a nation like Kenya, which is already experiencing the adverse effects of climate change, like droughts and floods, this helps to moderate climate change and reduce air pollution.

Economic Benefits

Kenya gains economically from solar energy in many ways. First of all, it generates employment prospects in the solar energy industry, ranging from production and installation to upkeep and management. This lowers unemployment and promotes economic progress. Second, the country becomes less dependent on costly and volatile imported fossil fuels as a result of solar energy. Kenya may lower its energy expenses and increase its energy security by utilizing locally accessible solar resources.

Advancement in Technology

The efficiency and affordability of solar energy have increased due to technological advancements in the field. Solar systems now produce more energy, which appeals to both consumers and companies. Examples of these innovations include bifacial panels, thin-film solar panels, and solar trackers. Solar energy is becoming more affordable than traditional energy sources because of these developments.

Mitigation of Climate Change

Kenya, like many other countries, is experiencing the effects of climate change, and switching to renewable energy sources, such as solar electricity, is an essential first step in lessening these effects. Solar energy is a recommended option in the fight against climate change because it helps to lower the country’s carbon footprint.