•Kenya ranks first in Africa and seventh in the world with an installed geothermal power generating capacity of 953.7 MW.
•CSI Energy Group is among the firms that took part in the works at Olkaria, a flagship project in the country Kenya.
Image: MICHAEL GOTTSCHALK
CSI Energy Group is looking to grow Kenya’s reliance on geothermal to three-fifths of the country’s total consumption by 2023.
Geothermal currently has an installed capacity of 953.7MW, hydro comes second at 867.54MW and wind comes a distance third at 436.1MW.
Kenya ranks first in Africa and seventh in the world with an installed geothermal power generating capacity of 953.7 MW.
In 2022-2023 an estimated 3,034.953 GWh of geothermal energy was generated accounting for 45.50 percent of Kenya’s energy mix.
According to newly appointed CSI Energy Group Deputy CEO Natacha Emilien, the firm will build on its existing projects, and scale to new initiatives that cater to Kenya's unique energy landscape, focusing on geothermal and solar energy, looking to support Kenya's vision of achieving reliable and sustainable energy for all.
"As part of our long-term objectives in the region, CSI Energy Group is excited to announce plans to grow the teams in Kenya. This expansion not only signifies our commitment to the Kenyan market but also our dedication to creating local employment opportunities,” She said.
Speaking after her appointment into the role, Emilien said that her leadership will be crucial in contributing to increase Kenya's reliance on geothermal energy to almost three-fifths by 2030.
CSI Energy Group is among the firms that took part in the works at Olkaria, a flagship project in the country Kenya.
Olkaria has been instrumental in producing about a quarter of Kenya's electricity, extending its reach from Mombasa to the Uganda border.
The addition of Olkaria 1 Unit 6 has been set to elevate Kenya's geothermal power generation capacity to approximately 944 MW, aligning it with global leaders in geothermal energy.
“We are focused on hiring local talent for all our projects, further contributing to job creation and skill development within the Kenyan community. This move aligns with our strategy of fostering sustainable growth and building strong local partnerships in the regions we operate." Emilien says.
The deputy CEO noted that at the heart of CSI Energy Group's strategy is a commitment to sustainable growth and rigorous governance - aware of the need for transformative leadership in this dynamic era.
Trained as an engineer, Natacha has experience in petroleum and gas engineering projects and industrial risk management since 2005. Her expertise also extends to other areas, including financial services and strategic and innovation consulting. In 2023, Natacha returned to her engineering roots by joining CSI Energy Group.