Kenya’s Olkaria I Geothermal Plant, operated by KenGen and renowned as the country’s oldest geothermal power station, is set to undergo a significant upgrade with the installation of new steam turbines and generators. Since commencing operations in 1981, Olkaria I has been a cornerstone of Kenya’s renewable energy sector. This enhancement is poised to substantially increase its efficiency and output, reflecting Kenya’s ongoing commitment to green energy and economic growth.
Scheduled for delivery by December 2025, the new equipment, sourced from Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation (Toshiba ESS), is part of a contract with SEPCOIII Electric Power Construction. This strategic upgrade targets the renovation of Units 1 through 3 at the 45MW facility, with an aim to boost the power output from the current 15MW to 21MW for each unit. This ambitious project not only intends to enhance the plant’s productivity but also its operational efficiency, utilizing less steam to generate more power.
The collaboration between KenGen and Toshiba ESS extends beyond the supply of hardware. In 2022, the two companies solidified their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), focusing on the sharing of expertise and networks to offer operations and maintenance (O&M) services. This agreement underscores a shared vision to support geothermal power development, not only within Kenya but also in other East African nations, aligning with regional growth and renewable energy goals.
This initiative is a key component of Kenya’s Vision 2030, the country’s comprehensive development plan which emphasizes enhancing electricity generation from renewable sources. With an eye toward achieving 100% green energy by 2030, Kenya is actively expanding its geothermal capacity to leverage the estimated 9GW potential within the Great Rift Valley region. The upgrade of Olkaria I represents a critical step towards this ambitious objective, signaling Kenya’s dedication to sustainable and inclusive economic development.
Shinya Fujitsuka, Director and Vice President of the Power Systems Division at Toshiba ESS, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s impact on energy stability in Kenya. Toshiba ESS’s commitment to delivering state-of-the-art geothermal technology solutions ranges from small to large geothermal steam turbines and generators, catering to a wide array of power needs across the spectrum from 1MW to 200MW.
As Kenya advances towards a greener future, the modernization of Olkaria I exemplifies the nation’s broader energy strategy. It not only enhances the reliability and efficiency of Kenya’s power infrastructure but also reinforces the country’s position as a leader in renewable energy within the African continent. Through strategic investments in technology and partnerships, Kenya is paving the way for sustainable economic growth, powered by clean, renewable energy sources.
