This archive report was first published on 17 September 2019.
On September 17, 2019, Kenya's geothermal ambitions took a significant leap forward with the Geothermal Development Corporation (GDC) announcing the discovery of steam at the Paka one well in Tiaty Constituency, Baringo County.
The Baringo-Silali geothermal power project, which has six wells, is expected to add 300MW to the national grid, thereby driving the country's Big 4 agenda.
Kenya has set ambitious targets to increase geothermal projects across the country, with the Baringo-Silali project commencing in May 2019. The country aims to install 5530MW of geothermal power by 2030, up from the current 690MW installed capacity.
The Ksh1.5 billion Baringo-Silali project covers three geothermal prospects: Silali, Paka, and Korosi. Upon completion, it is expected to lower power bills and accelerate access to electricity for households.
Furthermore, the GDC envisions the development of industrial parks adjacent to the Baringo field, which investors can take advantage of due to low production costs.
