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Davis & Shirtliff has introduced a modular, container-based solar hybrid system designed to increase access to clean and cost-effective electricity for millions of Kenyans who are not connected to the national power grid.

A company specializing in water and energy solutions stated that the new system is intended for remote areas where consistent power supply continues to be an issue. The initial unit has already been set up in Lodwar, located in Turkana County.

The Lodwar facility includes a 50 kW solar hybrid inverter along with a 70 kWh battery storage system.

The system ensures a consistent power supply both during the day and at night, and greatly reduces reliance on diesel generators, which are expensive to run and detrimental to the environment.

Managing Director Edward Davis stated that the technology is designed to tackle persistent issues in rural power access.

“This marks a significant move towards providing clean and dependable power to regions that have lacked it for a long time,” he stated.

He mentioned that the plug-and-play design aims to accelerate implementation. “By providing a system that is immediately usable, we are enabling communities to access electricity more quickly and at a lower cost, thereby promoting economic growth and social progress,” he stated.

The combined system is small, completely put together, and simple to move. It can be set up rapidly, even in difficult or remote areas. Davis & Shirtliff mentioned that it is ideal for rural areas, schools, health centers, small enterprises, marketplaces, and aid missions.

Kenya still experiences significant gaps in electricity access, especially in rural and dry areas. As per the Ministry of Energy, approximately 43 percent of the nation’s people remain unconnected to the national power grid.

At the same time, the mini-grid and off-grid energy industry is growing due to advancements making technology more effective and cost-effective. Solar hybrid systems are now seen as the most practical option for providing power to isolated communities.

A 2024 global mini-grids market study supported by UK aid revealed that Kenya must implement solar hybrid mini-grids to provide electricity to at least 1.3 million individuals and increase power generation by 125 MW in order to reach universal energy access by 2030 through the most economical methods. Achieving this goal is expected to require an investment of approximately USD 281 million.

Research on Kenya’s small-scale power networks indicates that consistent electricity can significantly impact rural areas. Families that have access to stable energy frequently experience higher earnings, extended business hours, better educational results, and increased safety.

Davis & Shirtliff stated that its latest system directly addresses the growing need for decentralized energy. The technology combines solar power generation with battery storage, enabling users to access renewable energy even at night. Its modular design allows additional units to be incorporated as demand increases.

The firm mentioned that the rapid-deployment structure is anticipated to accelerate the transition to electric power in remote areas that are not expected to get grid access in the coming years.

The introduction occurs during a period when Kenya is intensifying its initiatives to enhance its energy systems outside the main grid, fueled by environmental objectives and the desire to boost social and economic prospects in underdeveloped areas.