How Off–Grid Solar Systems are making a Difference in Tana River County

In Kiarukungu, a remote village located five kilometres from Hola Town in Tana  River County, electricity was once a luxury that many could only dream of. For  Ms. Salima Hiribae, a farmer and small business owner, the absence of power meant challenges in lighting her home, charging her phone, and keeping her perishable goods fresh for sale.

That changed when a friend introduced her to a solar kit capable of powering lights, a radio, and even a TV. Inspired, Ms.  Hiribae travelled to Hola Town and purchased a similar system. “My family was overjoyed when we finally had light in the evenings,” she recalls. “Though the payment plan was initially a bit challenging, it was soon resolved, and since then, I’ve been enjoying uninterrupted solar power.” 
Her interest grew after interacting with representatives from a solar company supported under KOSAP. She later invested in a solar-powered refrigerator, enabling her to expand her business and improve her family’s quality of life.

“These solar products have completely changed our lives,” Ms. Hiribae shares. News“We can now watch our favourite  shows on TV, listen to the radio, and keep  in touch with relatives without worrying  about charging our phones.” Through KOSAP, the Government of  Kenya —in collaboration with development  partners—has offered incentives to solar  companies to deliver affordable energy  solutions to 14 underserved counties.  

A flexible payment model, with a daily  payment of Kshs. 55 for lighting and Kshs.  1,090 for the fridge , has made access to  clean energy both possible and practical.  KOSAP’s results-based facility is managed  by SNV Netherlands, on behalf of the  Ministry of Energy and Petroleum.

Ms. Hiribae’s home has since become  a business hub serving the community.  She charges phones and gadgets for neighbours at a small fee and has seen a rise in sales of cold beverages, juices, and bottled water—all made possible by her solar-powered fridge. Most importantly, her children now have a well-lit space to study after dark.