Kenya’s push towards renewable energy gained youthful momentum when Lean Energy Solutions hosted its first University Essay Award Ceremony on Renewable Energy, drawing attention to the bold ideas of the country’s students.
The event, held on Friday at the Kenya School of Government, honoured three outstanding essays chosen from 846 submissions.
University of Nairobi’s Alex Otieno walked away with the top award and Sh70,000, while Mt. Kenya University’s Esther Awak secured second place with Sh50,000.
The third spot went to Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT’s) Benedict Kioko, who received Sh30,000.
The contest, announced on 30 June 2025, invited students across the country to suggest practical and high-impact proposals that could accelerate the national transition to clean energy.
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Organisers described the overwhelming number of submissions as a sign of Generation Z’s determination to be active players in shaping Kenya’s energy future.
Government representatives also used the ceremony to stress the importance of integrating young voices into policy.
Kennedy Oduoyo, Head of Programs and Youth and Technical Advisor to the Cabinet Secretary at the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, said the initiative had proved the value of student participation.
"This competition demonstrates that when given the right platform, our young people step forward with bold solutions capable of shaping policy and practice," Oduoyo remarked.
"The Ministry remains committed to mentoring and supporting them as partners in advancing Kenya’s energy transition."
For Lean Energy Solutions, the awards were both a celebration and a signal of intent.
Founder and Managing Director Dinesh Tembhekar praised the enthusiasm of students and the calibre of their ideas, noting that the initiative would not be a one-off.
“The brilliance and energy demonstrated by the 846 participants affirms that our next generation of innovators is ready to step forward. At Lean Energy, we believe the transition to sustainability must be youth-driven, and we are proud to champion platforms that bring their ideas to life," he said.
"This competition is not an end but the start of an annual tradition that will ensure young people remain at the heart of Kenya’s renewable energy transformation."
By bringing together universities, government, and industry players, the essay competition underscored how collective effort can speed up Kenya’s clean energy journey.
Lean Energy Solutions confirmed that the award scheme will return annually, ensuring students remain central to conversations about sustainability and policy.
