China has begun the construction of the Orpower 22 geothermal power plant in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, a project aimed at enhancing the country’s renewable energy capacity. The state-owned PowerChina and Kaishan Group are collaborating, with an investment of US$93 million. President William Ruto highlighted the plant’s importance in boosting Kenya’s geothermal energy production and acknowledged that the country has yet to fully exploit its geothermal potential.
China is initiating the construction of a geothermal power plant in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley as part of a broader renewable energy strategy in Africa. State-owned PowerChina has been tasked with building the 35-megawatt Orpower 22 geothermal plant at the Menengai Crater, funded by Chinese company Kaishan Group, which is investing approximately US$93 million into the project. During the inauguration ceremony, President William Ruto emphasized the significance of the plant, noting that it would elevate Kenya’s rank in global geothermal production to the fifth position. He remarked on the nation’s commitment to harnessing its abundant geothermal resources to spur economic development. President Ruto stated, “So far, we have tapped only 950MW, a small fraction of our geothermal potential of nearly 10,000MW, leaving immense opportunities still untapped.” This initiative follows the commissioning of another 35-megawatt geothermal facility last year by PowerChina, which is operated by the Sosian Geothermal Power Station. This arrangement includes a 14-year contract between Kaishan Group and Sosian Energy, where the former will manage the plant before returning it to the latter after recouping its investment.
Geothermal energy is a significant renewable resource for Kenya, situated within the geologically active Great Rift Valley. The country has long recognized the potential of its geothermal reserves, boasting an estimated capacity of nearly 10,000 megawatts. The development of geothermal energy is seen as a critical component of Kenya’s strategy to diversify its energy sources and achieve sustainable economic growth, while also addressing energy demands. As investments from countries such as China increase, Kenya is positioning itself as a leader in geothermal energy production in Africa.
The commencement of the Orpower 22 geothermal power plant construction marks a vital step forward in Kenya’s renewable energy landscape. With abundant geothermal resources still unutilized, the nation’s commitment to advancing its geothermal potential is evident. The collaboration with Chinese firms illustrates international investment interests in Africa’s renewable energy future, potentially transforming Kenya into a significant player in global geothermal energy production.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
