Government Incentives Driving E-Mobility Revolution in Kenya
In recent years, Kenya has been making significant progress towards embracing E-mobility as part of its commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation. 🌱 One of the key factors of this transition is the government's proactive approach in implementing incentives to promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across the country. Let's delve into the policies and initiatives spearheading Kenya's E-mobility revolution. 🚗💨
The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), established under the Standards Act, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and safety of imported electric motor vehicles. In April 2020, in compliance with Legal Notice No.78, KEBS introduced stricter standards for the importation of used/secondhand electric motor vehicles. One notable requirement is that all imported electric vehicles must have a battery life of not less than 80%, ensuring that only vehicles with sufficient battery longevity enter the Kenyan market. 🔋
Moreover, used electric motor vehicles originating from select countries such as Japan, UAE, Thailand, Singapore, South Africa, and the UK are subject to mandatory pre-inspection by Quality Inspection Services Inc. (QISJ), the appointed inspection agent for motor vehicles by KEBS. This rigorous pre-inspection process helps maintain the quality and reliability of imported electric vehicles, safeguarding consumers' interests.
Kenya has also fostered the policy of the Value Added Tax (VAT) zero-rating for e-motorcycles, e-buses, e-bicycles, and lithium-ion batteries. By eliminating VAT on these essential components of e-mobility, the government aims to make EVs more accessible and affordable to the masses. Additionally, excise duty exemptions for e-motorcycles further sweeten the deal, reducing financial barriers to entry for prospective EV buyers.
Furthermore, as part of the latest e-mobility initiative by East Africa's largest economy, Kenya plans to introduce a special tariff for electric car charging stations. This tariff, proposed by Kenya Power to the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, will offer a lower rate of Sh17 per kWh for consumption between 200 and 15,000-kilowatt hours, compared to the usual price of Sh21.68 per unit. The implementation of this tariff, expected to remain in effect until 2025, not only promotes affordability to electric vehicle charging but also provides investors in e-mobility with predictability and stability. ⚡
Kenya's embrace of e-mobility aligns with its Vision 2030, which envisions a sustainable future for the country. By promoting the adoption of electric vehicles, Kenya aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate air pollution. The government's commitment to e-mobility reflects its determination to transition towards a low-carbon economy and build a more resilient society for future generations. ♻️🌍
In conclusion, government incentives and regulations are playing a crucial role in driving the e-mobility revolution in Kenya. By prioritizing quality standards, the government is paving the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable transportation system. With continued collaboration between the public and private sectors, Kenya is poised to become a regional leader in e-mobility innovation and adoption, contributing to global efforts to promote sustainable development.
References
https://www.businessdailyafrica.com/bd/economy/kenya-plans-special-tariff-for-electric-cars--4100510
https://www.esi-africa.com/news/tax-driven-incentives-to-bolster-east-africas-e-mobility-growth/