Going green with Spark Bikes
Throughout the better part of this year, the Kenyan government has been actively advocating for Green Growth and Climate solutions at both the national and global levels, addressing the pressing issue of climate change. From hosting the African Climate Summit to participating in COP 28, Kenya is demonstrating a diversified commitment to global climate sustainability.
During the opening of the COP28 in Dubai, President William Ruto emphasized the dire consequences his region is already facing due to climate breakdown. He highlighted the devastating impact of catastrophic flooding following the most severe drought in over 40 years in eastern Africa. President Ruto noted that studies indicate droughts are now over 100 times more likely in certain parts of Africa compared to the pre-industrial era.
The extreme weather conditions this year have claimed lives, devastated communities, and wreaked havoc on infrastructure and supply chains. President Ruto stressed the urgency for global investment in green energy and other infrastructure in Africa.
Going green to foster decarbonization
He emphasized that ignoring Africa’s developmental and industrial needs is no longer a sustainable position. Transforming Africa into a green powerhouse is not only essential for the continent but also crucial for global industrialization and decarbonization.
The African Climate Summit held in Kenya culminated in the Nairobi Declaration, an eleven-point call to action that proclaimed the unified stance of African states on climate action leading up to the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNCCCOP28).
The Summit underscored the importance of accountability and transparency in pursuing a just and equitable transition. It emphasized the obligation for countries that have contributed the most to climate change to take the lead in financing and implementing climate action. Additionally, the Summit highlighted the necessity for ensuring the equitable sharing of benefits from climate action, leaving no one behind.
On the sidelines of the inaugural Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, First Ladies and women energy leaders emphasized the crucial importance of transitioning to renewable and clean energy sources. They highlighted the integral role women must play in this transition, including closing electricity access gaps and promoting clean cooking solutions, particularly in rural and low-income areas.
“It is undeniable that women play a pivotal role in steering the energy transition toward a sustainable future across Africa. Their engagement transcends environmental preservation; it is a catalyst for fostering social-economic equity. While designing policy interventions and solutions to accelerate the energy transition, women need to be involved to ensure that interventions are built with the users in mind,” stated First Lady Rachel Ruto.
Electric motorbikes
In addition to these efforts, the government has initiated various programs aimed at promoting sustainable climate change practices. This includes the ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees and the introduction of electric motorcycles and cars.
Kenya is gradually embracing electric motorbikes and cars, especially in urban centers and city counties. Many urban dwellers have likely encountered a growing number of electric bikes. What once seemed like a distant dream is now becoming a reality, thanks to companies like Spark Bikes and Spiro Bikes, among others. Spark Bikes, originating from India and China, has experienced significant growth in Kenya.
It pioneered electric bike pilots in the country in 2019, starting with its Genesis model in Kisii. Today, their main showroom is located along Ngong Road, just behind Lexo petrol station.
According to Spark Bikes, in the current economic situation, electric bikes are saving riders at least Kes10,000 per month compared to regular bikes. This estimate includes Kes7,000 for fuel and Kes3,000 for maintenance.
For example, Spark Bikes charges Kes450 per day, offering unlimited charging within the day without additional costs. The distance covered determines the power consumption, with their bikes depleting a fully charged battery after traveling 80-100 kilometers.
Read also: COP28: Collaboration crucial to tackling the climate emergency
Cabins with QR code
The charging process employed by Spark Bikes is systematically organized. They have installed solar panels on the rooftops of partner gas stations, including Lexo, Rubis, and Shell. Within these stations, there are batteries located in cabinets under a shared canopy, where the batteries are charged.
Each of these cabins is equipped with a QR code. Upon the arrival of a rider with a depleted battery, they can use the Power Hive app on their smartphones to scan the code, automatically opening the cabin. This allows them to replace the battery and leave the other one charging.
However, the batteries are leased separately upon the purchase of the bike. Initially, customers buy the bike alone for Kes190,000 and then lease a battery. Additionally, Spark Bikes offers a “Lipa Mdogo Mdogo” payment plan to assist those facing challenges in making a full upfront payment.
Spark Bikes has partnered with financiers like Mogo and 4G Capital. With Mogo, a customer pays a deposit of Kes20,000 upon purchase and a daily payment of Kes505 for 18 months. On the other hand, with 4G Capital, a deposit of Kes25,000 is required, followed by a daily payment of Kes518 for one year.
Moreover, Spark Bikes has collaborated with Mobius Kenya for bike assembly. After importing parts from India and China, the assembly takes place at Mobius Kenya. Power Hive East Africa Limited reportedly sells approximately 150 Spark Bikes in Kenya per day, highlighting the significant growth in their business.
Spark Bikes has evolved over time, currently at the third generation, which is the most recent model. They started with the first generation, a standard orange bike. Later, they introduced the second generation, a blue flat bike with slight modifications.
The third generation is also blue but features a curvier shape and significant modifications. This latest generation has a battery capacity of approximately 4000 kilowatts and is suitable for off-road use, providing customers with a considerable advantage.
Over time, Kenyans are increasingly embracing the cultural shift from fossil fuels to green energy. Many have embraced the Go Green initiative, recognizing its potential for a better livelihood.
