KenGen has completed the rehabilitation and upgrade of the Olkaria I geothermal power plant, raising its installed capacity from the original 45 MW to approximately 63 MW, with the core objective of alleviating domestic supply pressure and reducing dependence on electricity imports. The project, undertaken by China's SEPCOIII, involved upgrading three generating units and optimizing steam field pipelines and surface equipment, marking the first time Chinese-made equipment has been introduced into Kenya's geothermal field. Kenya has faced persistently tight electricity supply in recent years, with peak demand reaching approximately 2,514 MW and reserve margins turning negative, necessitating electricity imports from Ethiopia and other countries to fill the gap. The additional generating capacity from Olkaria I is regarded as an important measure to stabilize the grid and reduce cross-border procurement, while also further consolidating geothermal's position as a baseload power source in Kenya's electricity mix. (ICE NAIROBI)

Fonte notizia: Business Daily