Japan kicks off sh1.6 billion geothermal development project

By Standard Digital Reporter

NAIROBI, KENYA;  A team of experts from Japan is in the country to hold discussions and provide technical advice to the Geothermal Development Company (GDC).

The team that arrived in the country on February 23 is expected to also visit Menengai Geothermal Project sites as part of the first activities for the Project for Capacity Strengthening for Geothermal Development in Kenya.

The project launched in September 2013 is projected at Sh1.6 billion, will train GDC on drilling techniques, reservoir evaluation, and project management among other aspects that will contribute to GDC’s accelerated geothermal development in Menengai, Suswa, etc.

It is expected that the trained staff will train future staff in GDC, Kenya and the region.

This is a crucial step forward for Kenya, since energy generation and distribution of 23,000MW is listed as one of the enablers towards achieving Kenya’s Vision 2030.

Simultaneously, JICA will support GDC in developing a Master-plan for its geothermal development. A mission from Japan has arrived to discuss with relevant stakeholders on the details of the scope of this Master-plan.

The purpose of the meeting is therefore to kick-off the Capacity Strengthening Project as well as to outline the future Master Plan Project that are expected to enhance and accelerate geothermal power generation in the country.