ACTS, in collaboration with Loughborough University, has been implementing the Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) project over the last one and half years. The project aims how to rapidly accelerate a transition from biomass to genuinely clean cooking.

The MECS project is premised on the fact that existing strategies are struggling to solve the problem of unsustainable but enduring cooking which place a particular burden on women. After decades of investment of improving biomass cooking, focused largely on increasing the efficiency of biomass use in domestic stoves, the technologies developed have had limited impact on development outcomes. The MECS project aims to break out of this ‘business as usual’ cycle.

The project combines creating a stronger evidence base for transitions to modern energy cooking with socio-technological innovations that will drive the transition forward.

The MECS Kenya component has built strong impact trajectory including engagement with policy makers, at sub-national, national and international levels. This includes direct work and partnership with counties and specific energy centers within the counties. Several counties are now being engaged in e-cooking as part of supporting their energy planning and convening actions through county energy centers.

The ACTS team is currently involved in the national energy planning processes through the National Sustainable Energy Technical Assistance (SETA) initiative under the Ministry of Energy. The team has introduced e-cooking as a key option for energy efficiency and is working with the Directorate to align accordingly.

MECS has a huge opportunity to transform the clean cooking landscape in Kenya and create a model for Africa. However, this can be achieved through mutual support, trust and equitable partnerships that helps to unlock opportunities and incentivizes progress. More information about the project can be accessed here.