The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has introduced a dumping surcharge that applies whenever electricity is exported into the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) network without a valid net‑metering agreement.

The charge specifically targets owners of solar installations who physically link their systems to the national grid and push surplus power back onto it without prior approval.

Kenya Power warns that unauthorised solar exports can destabilise grid frequency and voltage, forcing the utility to activate backup generation sources.

Legal pathway under net‑metering rules

Consumers wishing to sell excess solar output can do so under the Energy (Net‑Metering) Regulations, 2024, which allow systems up to one megawatt to export electricity after entering a formal net‑metering agreement with Kenya Power.

The regulations also give Kenya Power authority to disconnect any system that threatens the safety, reliability, or security of its distribution network.

Simply owning a solar system does not attract any penalty; the surcharge only applies when the system is linked to the grid without the required agreement.

What households and businesses should do

Owners of solar installations are advised to apply for a net‑metering agreement with Kenya Power before exporting any surplus electricity, to avoid the dumping surcharge.

Kenya Power has indicated it will disconnect unauthorised systems that jeopardise grid stability, reinforcing the need for compliance.