How Kenya plans to power Africa with geothermal energy

Kenya has made significant strides in the realm of geothermal energy production, surpassing Italy to become the world's seventh-largest geothermal power producer. The country's success in this sector can be largely attributed to the efforts of companies like KenGen, which have played a crucial role in Kenya's rise as a global leader in geothermal power generation. KenGen, which operates and owns 85% of the geothermal capacity in Kenya, has been instrumental in driving the country's energy transformation. The company's CEO, Rebecca Miano, recently shared insights on KenGen's achievements, financial performance, and future plans in a CNBC Africa interview. Rebecca Miano expressed pride in Kenya's newfound status as a major player in geothermal energy production, with a total installed geothermal capacity of 823 megawatts. KenGen's contribution to this milestone includes the successful commissioning of the Alcaria 5 project, which added 172 megawatts to the country's grid in 2019. Despite these achievements, Miano highlighted that Kenya's geothermal potential remains largely untapped, with an estimated capacity of 10,000 megawatts. She emphasized the need for continued efforts to harness this vast resource and further bolster Kenya's position as a key player in the global energy landscape. One of the key highlights of the interview was KenGen's impressive financial performance, with a notable 98% profit increase in the past six months. Miano attributed this growth to various factors, including increased tax revenue, operational efficiency, and cost reduction measures. The addition of new capacity from the Alcaria 5 project also contributed to the company's strong financial showing. Despite the uncertainties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, KenGen remains focused on optimizing operations and maintaining financial stability. The impact of the pandemic on KenGen's business operations was also addressed in the interview. Miano acknowledged the challenges posed by the global health crisis but underscored the company's commitment to ensuring uninterrupted electricity generation in Kenya. KenGen has implemented various safety measures, such as shift rotations, remote work arrangements, and enhanced hygiene protocols, to safeguard its employees and maintain essential services. The company's resilience in the face of the pandemic reflects its dedication to supporting the nation's energy needs during these challenging times. Looking ahead, KenGen remains steadfast in its expansion plans, with a strategic focus on tapping into geothermal resources across Africa. The company has initiated drilling projects in Ethiopia as part of its broader expansion strategy. While the pandemic has temporarily impacted these activities, KenGen is optimistic about resuming its expansion efforts once international travel restrictions are eased. By leveraging its expertise and technological capabilities, KenGen aims to further enhance geothermal capacity in Africa and contribute to powering the continent through sustainable energy sources. In conclusion, KenGen's success story serves as a testament to Kenya's leadership in geothermal energy production and sets a positive example for other African nations. By prioritizing innovation, efficiency, and strategic growth initiatives, KenGen is well-positioned to drive the continent's energy transition and play a pivotal role in shaping Africa's sustainable future.