China has begun construction on the 35-megawatt Orpower 22 geothermal power plant in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, indicating a continued push for renewable energy. This project is part of a broader strategy to harness Kenya’s geothermal potential, which is estimated at nearly 10,000 megawatts. President William Ruto highlighted the importance of this development for economic growth and Kenya’s global ranking in geothermal production.
Construction has commenced on a new geothermal power plant in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, reflecting China’s strategic emphasis on renewable energy initiatives across Africa. The state-owned PowerChina is spearheading the development of the 35-megawatt Orpower 22 geothermal facility located at the Menengai Crater. This project is being financed by the Chinese firm Kaishan Group, which has allocated US$93 million towards its completion. During the inauguration ceremony, President William Ruto articulated that this new plant would elevate Kenya’s position in global geothermal production, effectively ranking the nation fifth in this field. He emphasized the significance of such projects in realizing the full potential of Kenya’s geothermal resources, indicating, “So far, we have tapped only 950MW, a small fraction of our geothermal potential of nearly 10,000MW, leaving immense opportunities still untapped.” Last year, PowerChina successfully launched another geothermal facility of similar capacity, the Sosian Geothermal Power Station, as part of a 14-year operational contract with Sosian Energy, ensuring a sustainable energy future for Kenya as it seeks to leverage its geothermal diversity.
The topic of geothermal energy in Kenya sheds light on the country’s vast natural resources and its ongoing commitment to renewable energy. Geothermal energy, derived from the Earth’s internal heat, presents a sustainable and reliable source of power that aligns with global efforts to combat climate change. Kenya is endowed with significant geothermal potential, particularly within the Great Rift Valley, making it a focal point for investment and development in the renewable sector. The involvement of Chinese firms such as PowerChina and Kaishan Group in establishing geothermal projects underscores not only the collaboration between Kenya and China but also the growing importance of renewable energy in the African continent.
In summary, the initiation of the Orpower 22 geothermal power plant in Kenya represents a significant step forward in the country’s renewable energy agenda. The project, backed by substantial Chinese investment, not only aims to enhance Kenya’s electricity generation capacity but also reinforces the nation’s commitment to harnessing its geothermal resources. As President Ruto has noted, the potential for further development remains vast, presenting new opportunities for economic growth in Kenya while contributing to global sustainability efforts.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
