KOSAP subsidies target off-grid solar systems in 14 underserved Kenyan counties, not direct household applications in urban areas like Nairobi. Individuals access them indirectly through approved solar service providers using results-based financing (RBF), which subsidizes providers for sales and installations.
Eligible Counties and Systems
KOSAP covers Marsabit, Lamu, Tana River, Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Isiolo, Taita Taveta, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Baringo, Laikipia, and Narok. Standalone solar home systems (up to 1kWh with batteries) qualify for partial subsidies via RBF, reducing costs by 30-50% for households.
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Focuses on productive use (e.g., small businesses, schools) alongside lighting.
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Excludes grid-connected or large commercial setups.
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World Bank-funded ($150M total), managed by Ministry of Energy and SNV.
Nairobi residents cannot apply directly; program prioritizes remote areas without KPLC access.
Application Steps for Households
Residents don’t apply individually—connect via vetted providers.
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Verify Location: Confirm your county and off-grid status via kosap-fm.or.ke or local energy office.
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Find Approved Providers: Check KOSAP website for Solar Service Providers (SSP) RBF list; they handle subsidized sales.
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Request Quote: Contact provider for eligible systems (e.g., solar + gel/lithium battery kits).
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Purchase and Install: Pay reduced price; provider claims RBF reimbursement post-verification (e.g., photos, usage data).
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Monitor: Systems tracked 1-2 years for performance.
Applications ongoing; no fixed deadlines as of 2026.
Provider Application Process
Service providers (not individuals) apply for RBF funding.
Contact enquiries@kosap-fm.org for queries.
Challenges and Tips
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Limited to 1.2M households over project life; high demand in border counties.
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Providers must prove sales results for payouts.
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Combine with VAT exemptions for max savings.
For Nairobi, pursue tax incentives instead; KOSAP transforms rural access but skips urban grids.