SMEs encouraged to adopt green energy .[File, Standard]
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have been urged to adopt green energy solutions to reduce their production costs.
Industry stakeholders at a Machakos County energy forum emphasised that converting renewable electricity into high-value products can address Africa's energy deficits while keeping manufacturing and jobs local.
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti noted that decentralised green energy solutions provide the stability small and medium enterprises need to lower operational costs and improve productivity.
''Decentralised green energy solutions such as rooftop solar installations and localised mini-grids provide affordable, predictable, and uninterrupted power. This stability enables small businesses to lower overheads, improve profit margins, scale production, and create local employment opportunities'' said the county boss at the event to mark Safer Power Group's 10th anniversary held in Machakos.
The governor noted that energy expenses often constitute the single largest operational cost for micro and small manufacturers.
She said going green offers a critical relief mechanism to cope with the shrinking capacity of the national grid, ensuring our industries enjoy uninterrupted operational resilience.
''Climate change and energy constraints demand bold action, and our response must be rooted in clean, renewable sources. I am proud to report that Machakos County is not just talking about this transition; we are actively living it. We have already initiated aggressive solarisation across our public infrastructure, powering critical community services in our hospitals, boreholes, and public street lighting through clean energy'' she added.