Kenya, long hailed as a leader in renewable energy in Africa, is setting its sights on the next frontier: green hydrogen.
In 2025, the Ministry of Energy confirmed that pilot projects are underway to explore the production of green hydrogen using geothermal and wind power. This marks a bold step in Kenya’s ambition to diversify its energy mix, cut carbon emissions, and become a global hub for sustainable energy innovation.
Why Green Hydrogen Matters
Green hydrogen, produced by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy, is increasingly seen as the fuel of the future. Unlike fossil fuels, it emits no carbon when used, making it crucial in the fight against climate change.
For Kenya, the potential is massive:
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Geothermal resources from Olkaria and Menengai could power electrolysis plants around the clock.
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Wind energy from Turkana and solar farms in Garissa could provide additional capacity.
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Hydrogen could be exported to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, where demand for clean fuels is rising.
Economic Boost and Job Creation
Officials estimate that investment in hydrogen infrastructure could attract billions in foreign investment and create thousands of jobs in energy, transport, and research sectors. Already, partnerships are being explored with Germany, Japan, and the EU, which have pledged billions globally toward green hydrogen projects.
Kenya also hopes to leverage hydrogen in fertilizer production, reducing its costly reliance on imports, and in clean transport, powering buses and trucks in urban centers.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Green hydrogen technology is still expensive, and Kenya will need significant capital to build large-scale facilities. Infrastructure such as pipelines, storage systems, and export terminals will also take time to develop.
Energy experts warn that without proper regulation and planning, the rush into hydrogen could mirror past struggles with stalled mega-projects. However, they remain confident that Kenya’s established renewable sector gives it a strong advantage.
A Continental Leader
If successful, Kenya could become the first African nation to export green hydrogen, joining countries like Namibia and South Africa in the race. This would strengthen Kenya’s reputation as an energy innovation hub and provide new leverage in international climate negotiations.
For now, the pilot projects will be closely watched. As one analyst put it: “Kenya’s geothermal steam may soon do more than power homes—it could power the world’s future fuel.”
