This archive report was first published on 30 July 2019.
On June 28, 2019, KenGen successfully synchronized Unit 1 of the Olkaria V Geothermal Power Plant to the national grid, marking a significant milestone in the country's energy sector. The completion of this unit has added 79MW of power to the national grid, bringing the total installed geothermal power capacity by KenGen to 612MW.
According to KenGen Managing Director & CEO, Mrs. Rebecca Miano, the additional capacity will play a key role in supporting Kenya's energy needs while increasing the amount of green energy in the national grid. In her statement, Mrs. Miano said, “We are delighted to announce the completion of the first unit of Olkaria V Geothermal Power Plant and subsequently injecting 79 MW to the national grid. This brings to 612MW the total amount of installed geothermal power capacity by KenGen and will be significant in ensuring that our country's power needs are met through the continuous use of green energy solutions,” she said.
With the completion of Unit 1, KenGen is one step closer to achieving its long-term plan of increasing renewable energy to provide affordable energy to Kenyans while safeguarding the environment. The injected energy will greatly support the country's Big Four Agenda and the Vision 2030 development blueprint. The development of Olkaria 1 additional Unit 6 is also currently underway.
KenGen has developed a rich energy mix comprising of hydro (819.9MW), geothermal (612 MW), thermal (253.5MW) and wind (25.5MW). About 80 percent of Kenya's installed capacity is from renewable sources, which is three times more than the global average.
