Nairobi’s public transport sector is embracing a green transformation as PSV operators step up to support electric mobility.
The city’s matatus and buses are at the forefront of this shift, aiming to modernize services while reducing environmental impact.
At the 2nd E-Mobility Stakeholders’ Conference at Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), BasiGo CEO Jit Bhattacharya announced the company has received 500 new orders from PSV owners.
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Since its launch, BasiGo has delivered 21 electric buses. This latest order signals a major boost for the company and could significantly expand the city’s electric transport fleet.
The electric buses are priced between Sh5 million and Sh7 million each. If all orders are fulfilled, PSV operators will invest around Sh2.5 billion into Kenya’s green energy sector.
Recent data from the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) shows growing adoption of electric vehicles. In 2023, Kenya registered 2,694 new EVs, up from 475 in 2022. By December 2023, EVs accounted for 1.62% of total vehicles, with the government targeting 5% by 2025.
EPRA has also issued Electric Vehicle Charging & Battery Swapping Infrastructure guidelines to help ensure safe, accessible, and affordable charging stations are set up nationwide.
Kenya Power is taking bold steps to accelerate the transition. On April 22, 2024, CEO Joseph Siror inaugurated the first EV charging station at Stima Plaza, Nairobi, valued at Sh6.5 million. Nine more stations are planned by July 2024 across the capital and other cities.
Additionally, Kenya Power has allocated Sh258 million to e-mobility initiatives, with a Sh20 million annual budget from 2025 onwards to expand the charging network further. This strategy ensures sufficient infrastructure to support a growing number of electric vehicles.
Impact on Commuters: Commuters can look forward to quieter, cleaner matatus and buses as electric fleets expand. Travel may become more reliable and environmentally friendly. Residents are advised to follow updates on new EV routes and charging station locations to plan trips effectively.
This push by PSV operators and Kenya Power positions Nairobi as a leader in Kenya’s e-mobility revolution, paving the way for a greener, smarter transport system.
