Kenya's power output is set to increase by 18 megawatts upon rehabilitation of the oldest geothermal power station in the country.
Under the four year revival plan, geothermal production from Olkaria I power plant in Naivasha will rise from 45mw to 63MW, according to power generator Kengen.
SEPCOIII Electric Power Construction Company and Toshiba Energy Systems and Solutions Corporation have been contracted to supply steam turbines and generators for the plant's three units.
According to Kengen, the modernisation project scheduled for completion in December 2026 envisioned the transition to 100 percent green energy by 2030.
The firm's managing director Peter Njenga said work on the plant which was commissioned in 1981 would elevate its operational efficiency.
“The renovation of Olkaria I represents a historic milestone for KenGen as we continue our commitment to sustainable energy solutions,” said Njenga in a press statement.
“By leveraging the latest advancements in geothermal technology, we aim to enhance the performance of the plant but also set new standards for renewable energy production," he said.
Njenga said that the modernisation was part of the government’s plans to phase out expensive thermal power to green energy like geothermal which is readily available.
“As the oldest geothermal power plant in Africa, Olkaria I holds significant historical importance and stands as a testament to Kenya's pioneering efforts in renewable energy production,” he said.
The MD expressed confidence in the project citing resource availability and the company’s highly skilled expertise.
“Having operated for more than 40 years, this confirms the sustainability of geothermal and we are confident the project will be completed on time and within budget,” he said.
Njenga said that through the comprehensive renovation, KenGen aimed to extend the operational lifespan of the plant and establish a model for sustainable energy development.
“We want to have a model that can be replicated across the region as the country angles to exploit the 10,000MW of geothermal potential in the Rift Valley region,” he said.
