The political economy of power planning in Kenya

A review of Kenya’s long-term power planning process, locally known as Least Cost Power Development Plans, reveals perennial power dynamics and inefficiencies. This briefing will scope out how the sectoral institutions, actors and competing interests shape power dynamics and impact the outcome of energy planning. We conducted a review of the country’s power sector policies, legislation, and plans, along with in-depth semi-structured interviews with key informants across the sub-sector. Preliminary insights from the analysis show that while the least cost power planning matrix in Kenya is largely inclusive, gaps and misalignments in the policy framework create loopholes for malpractice. Further, a political culture of patronage and adherence to a bureaucratic chain of command are core to the sub-sector's decision making. Recommendations involve empowering various sector utilities, addressing gaps within the policy framework, adopting more optimal planning tools, and developing better mechanisms to counter corruption.