Energy system modelling to explore development pathways has advanced significantly in recent decades as a critical tool and widely integrated methodology for energy planning procedures within Kenya. Modellers, analysts, and academics have applied such tools to support international, national, regional and local organisations and policymakers within Kenya to make evidence-informed energy policy and development decisions. As the body of energy modelling literature examining Kenyan applications expands and evolves, it is helpful to investigate research developments to guide current and future modelling research. This paper employs a systematic literature review, examining 79 studies, tracking the progress, challenges, gaps, and trends related to energy modelling research related to Kenya over the last decade. We show that current energy modelling research with Kenyan applications typically operate outside of Kenya, largely conducted by European research institutions, with most articles consisting of no Kenyan co-authorship. Six key research themes were identified across the examined articles: electrification, clean cooking, emissions, resources, energy transitions, and grids. Additionally, three methodological themes of mixed methods, soft-linking, and policy implications were outlined. Three main limitations were defined across the existing literature including data, model scope, and looking beyond techno-economic assessment. Furthermore, two key future research directions were identified as increasing geographical resolution, and integration of social considerations.
Fields et al. (Tue,) studied this question.