Average Peak Sun Hours by County.
Solar Energy Potential in Kenya: Average Peak Sun Hours by County.
Average Peak Sun Hours by County. Kenya is blessed with abundant sunshine, making it an ideal location for solar energy projects. However, the amount of usable sunlight—measured in peak sun hours (PSH)—varies across different regions. Understanding these variations helps in planning solar installations for maximum efficiency.
In this blog, we’ll explore the average peak sun hours per day in different Kenyan counties and what factors influence these numbers. We’ll also highlight how Riisun Solar Energy Experts can help you harness this solar potential with professional supply and installation services across Kenya.
What Are Peak Sun Hours?
Peak sun hours (PSH) refer to the number of hours in a day when sunlight intensity is strong enough (about 1,000 watts/m²) to generate optimal solar power. Even if the sun is up for 12 hours, only a portion of that time provides usable solar energy.
For example:
- 6 PSH means the sun’s intensity is equivalent to 6 hours of full-power sunlight.
- Lower PSH means less solar energy generation potential.
Kenya’s Solar Potential by County.
Highest Solar Potential (6.0+ PSH/day)
These regions receive the most intense sunlight, making them perfect for large-scale solar farms:
- Turkana (Lodwar): 6.5 – 7.0 hours (Best in Kenya!)
- Isiolo: 6.5 – 6.8 hours
- Garissa: 6.3 – 6.8 hours
- Wajir: 6.5 – 6.9 hours
- Mandera: 6.4 – 6.8 hours
- Marsabit: 6.3 – 6.8 hours
- Tana River: 6.2 – 6.7 hours
Why? Northern Kenya has minimal cloud cover, low humidity, and vast open spaces, allowing for maximum sunlight exposure.
High Solar Potential (5.5 – 6.5 PSH/day)
These regions still have great solar potential, suitable for residential and commercial solar systems:
- Samburu: 6.2 – 6.7 hours
- Laikipia: 5.8 – 6.3 hours
- Kitui: 6.0 – 6.4 hours
- Makueni: 6.0 – 6.5 hours
- Baringo: 6.2 – 6.6 hours
- Coastal areas (Mombasa, Lamu, Kilifi): 5.7 – 6.5 hours
Why? These areas have consistent sunshine, though coastal regions experience slightly more humidity.
Moderate Solar Potential (5.0 – 6.0 PSH/day)
These counties have decent solar potential but may experience occasional cloud cover:
- Nairobi: 5.4 – 6.0 hours
- Nakuru: 5.5 – 6.0 hours
- Embu & Meru: 5.4 – 6.0 hours
- Kisumu: 5.2 – 5.8 hours
- Homa Bay: 5.5 – 6.0 hours
Why? Central and western regions have higher altitudes and occasional rainfall, reducing sunlight intensity.
Lower Solar Potential (Below 5.5 PSH/day)
These areas have the least solar potential due to frequent cloud cover and rain:
- Kericho: 4.8 – 5.5 hours (Tea-growing region with heavy clouds)
- Kisii: 4.5 – 5.2 hours
- Nyandarua: 5.0 – 5.6 hours
- Kiambu: 5.0 – 5.6 hours
Why? These regions are cooler, more humid, and experience frequent rainfall, reducing direct sunlight.
Summary Table: Solar Potential Across Kenya
| Solar Potential | Counties | Avg. Peak Sun Hours/Day |
|---|---|---|
| Very High (6.0+ PSH) | Turkana, Isiolo, Garissa, Wajir | 6.3 – 7.0 hours |
| High (5.5 – 6.5 PSH) | Kitui, Makueni, Laikipia, Coast | 5.7 – 6.5 hours |
| Moderate (5.0 – 6.0 PSH) | Nairobi, Nakuru, Kisumu, Meru | 5.0 – 6.0 hours |
| Low (Below 5.5 PSH) | Kericho, Kisii, Nyandarua, Kiambu | 4.5 – 5.5 hours |
Why Choose Riisun Solar Energy Experts?
At Riisun Solar Energy Experts, we provide end-to-end solar solutions tailored to Kenya’s diverse solar potential. Our services include:
Custom Solar System Design – Optimized for your location’s peak sun hours.
High-Quality Solar Panels & Batteries – Reliable brands for maximum efficiency.
Professional Installation & Maintenance – Certified technicians for seamless setup.
Residential, Commercial & Industrial Solutions – From home systems to large solar farms.
Serving All Counties in Kenya! Whether you’re in sunny Turkana or cloudier Kericho, we ensure you get the best solar energy solution for your needs.
📞 Contact us today for a FREE consultation!
Key Takeaways.
Best for Solar Farms: Northern Kenya (Turkana, Garissa, Wajir).
Great for Home Solar: Central & Eastern Kenya (Kitui, Makueni, Laikipia).
Moderate Solar Use: Nairobi, Nakuru, Coastal areas.
Lower Efficiency: Western Kenya (Kericho, Kisii) due to clouds.
Riisun Solar Experts – Your trusted partner for solar solutions across Kenya.
Conclusion
Kenya has excellent solar energy potential, especially in northern and eastern regions. If you’re considering solar panels, check your county’s average peak sun hours to estimate energy production.
Let Riisun Solar Energy Experts guide you! We provide customized, efficient, and affordable solar solutions nationwide.
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📩 Email: support@riisunsolarenergy.co.ke | ☎️ Call: 0791-303-866
Would you like a free solar assessment for your home or business? Get in touch today!
