Electric Power Network Readiness for EV Charging Rollout in Nairobi

Abstract

This report assesses the readiness of Nairobi's electric power distribution network to support a commercial rollout of EV charging infrastructure. Produced under the FCDO-funded Climate Compatible Growth (CCG) programme in partnership with Kenya Power and the Nairobi Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (NaMATA), the study identifies six priority charging hub locations along the BRT Line 2 (Thika Road) corridor — Stima Club, Ngara Bus Park, Greenpark Bus Park, KNH Bus Park, Roysambu Bus Park, and Ruiru Bus Park — and conducts site-level feeder capacity assessments for each. Using an 11 kV feeder design framework with a 10% operating reserve margin, the study determines the maximum feasible mix of electric bus chargers (180 kW units) and two-wheeler chargers (3 kW units) at each location. Results show that all six sites can support mixed-use charging hubs under existing network conditions, with a combined potential of 65 bus charger units and 2,530 two-wheeler chargers across the network. The study concludes that managed charging and phased deployment are essential for scalability, and recommends targeted network reinforcement, energy management systems, and smart metering to support long-term EV infrastructure growth.