Kenya’s leadership in renewable energy has received a significant boost with the appointment of Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) Managing Director and CEO, Eng. Peter Njenga, as Co-Chair of the Business 20 (B20) Task Force on Energy Mix and Just Transition. This appointment places him at the helm of discussions on sustainable energy transition under South Africa’s G20 presidency in 2025.
This strategic appointment reinforces Africa’s growing influence in shaping global energy policies. As a continent rich in renewable energy resources, Africa is well-positioned to lead in the shift toward cleaner, more sustainable power solutions. Eng. Njenga’s leadership in the task force aligns with Kenya’s continued commitment to advancing green energy while addressing economic and social equity concerns.
Kenya has long been recognized as a renewable energy powerhouse, with over 90% of its electricity generated from clean sources. KenGen, as the country’s leading energy producer, has played a central role in this transformation. With an installed capacity of over 1,786MW, including 754MW from geothermal sources, KenGen has demonstrated that sustainable energy is not just an environmental necessity but also a viable economic strategy.
Read also: The push for a just transition to renewable energy in Africa
Under Eng. Njenga’s leadership, KenGen has expanded its renewable energy portfolio, reinforcing Kenya’s role as a trailblazer in climate resilience and sustainable economic growth. His new position within the B20 Task Force on Energy Mix and Just Transition further amplifies the continent’s voice in global energy debates. The task force will work closely with governments, financial institutions, and private sector leaders to develop recommendations on clean energy adoption, energy security, and climate resilience, with the final proposals feeding into the G20 Leaders’ Summit later in the year.
Africa’s inclusion in such global policy discussions is crucial. The continent faces unique challenges, including energy access, financing gaps, and infrastructure development needs. By ensuring that these issues are part of the global conversation, this appointment offers a rare opportunity to shape energy policies that prioritize sustainable investments, equitable financing mechanisms, and inclusive economic models.
Eng. Njenga’s expertise in scaling up renewable energy solutions in a developing economy context makes him a vital contributor to this dialogue. His appointment also strengthens KenGen’s position as a key player in global energy transition efforts. The company continues to expand its geothermal capacity while exploring opportunities in wind and solar energy, cementing its role as a sustainability leader in Africa and beyond.
As the world accelerates efforts toward decarbonization, Africa’s leadership in renewable energy will be instrumental in defining the future of sustainable energy. Eng. Njenga’s appointment highlights Kenya’s continued commitment to clean energy innovation and positions Africa as a key stakeholder in shaping global energy policy. Through strategic partnerships and policy influence, this milestone paves the way for an energy transition that is not only environmentally responsible but also economically and socially inclusive.
