Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika today, Thursday, joined Deputy President H.E Rigathi Gachagua for the launch of the 35-MW Geothermal project at the Menengai Caldera.
The project that is being carried out the Globeleq Africa Ltd is part of the first phase of the wider Menengai Complex. Once complete, the project will run for 25 years supplying the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) with power under the Power Purchase Program. The project will, in turn, be receiving steam from the Geothermal Development Company under the Project Implementation and Steam Supply Agreement (PISSA).
The project is the second large-scale such program after the Ol’Karia one in the Great Rift Valley. It will reach commercial operationalisation in 2025 and is expected to create approximately 200 jobs for locals during the construction stage. Once complete, it will create 35 – 40 permanent and contractual jobs.
Over the years, the GDC company has had a huge economic and social impact on the local community through the provision of job opportunities. The company also gives business opportunities to local youth and women by allocating 30% of their procurement opportunities to them.
Additionally, GDC has helped improve health services at the Bahati Hospital through the donation of an ambulance and facility upgrade. The company has also sunk a borehole at the hospital that serves the surrounding community.
Access roads to the facility have been undergoing continuous improvement making easing mobility for locals and improving economic activities including agriculture.
Financing for the 35-MW geothermal project is by the Africa Development Bank, the Eastern and Southern Africa Trade & Development and Finnfund.
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