Bad News to Kenyans as New KPLC Electricity Charges Take Effect

Kenyans are expected to pay more for electricity in October following the introduction of additional charges by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). The new adjustments affect households and businesses, with consumers facing extra costs for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity they use. In a notice dated Friday, October 9, 2026, EPRA announced changes to fuel energy costs, foreign exchange adjustments and the water resource management levy. The three charges amount to approximately KSh4.10 per unit of electricity consumed, although the final impact on individual bills will depend on consumption and the applicable billing arrangements. According to the regulator, the fuel energy cost has been set at KSh3.22 per kWh, while the foreign exchange adjustment stands at 87 cents per unit. Consumers will also pay a water resource management levy of 1.34 cents per kWh. These charges will affect customers purchasing electricity through Kenya Power tokens as well as those receiving monthly bills. EPRA clarified that the adjustments apply to different billing periods. The foreign exchange adjustment covers meter readings taken in September 2026, while the fuel energy cost and water resource management levy apply to October readings. The different periods determine how the charges are reflected in electricity bills and purchases. The water resource management levy is designed to support the management of water resources used in hydropower generation. EPRA stated that the charge applies to electricity prices under the 2023 Schedule of Tariffs, with the October rate set at 1.34 cents per kWh. Meanwhile, the fuel energy cost reflects expenses associated with fuel used by thermal power plants and electricity imported from other countries. Increased fuel costs at some diesel-powered generation stations have contributed to the adjustment, adding to the expenses involved in supplying electricity to consumers. The foreign exchange adjustment accounts for currency-related costs arising from electricity generation and supply agreements denominated in foreign currencies, particularly the US dollar. Exchange rate movements can influence these expenses, which are subsequently reflected in the charges passed on to consumers. EPRA also reported that Kenya purchased approximately 304.82 million kWh of electricity in September from hydropower plants with installed capacities of at least one megawatt. These included Gitaru, Kamburu, Kiambere, Kindaruma, Masinga and Tana, alongside Turkwel and other sources supplying the national grid. The latest adjustments mean households using more electricity will generally face higher additional costs, while businesses with substantial power requirements may experience increased operating expenses. Consumers are therefore advised to check their October electricity purchases and bills to understand how the charges affect their payments.

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