KENYA’S geothermal power sector is set for a major boost with the imminent arrival of new steam turbines and generators, paving the way for a notable enhancement in the country's energy infrastructure.

The equipment renovation is targeted towards improving the performance of the old 45MW Olkaria I geothermal power plant at unit 1 – 3, marking a major step towards enhancing renewable energy production in the region.

 Olkaria I geothermal power plant is the oldest geothermal power plant in Kenya and has been in commercial operation by the Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (hereinafter “KenGen”) since 1981.

 A statement obtained by this paper yesterday revealed that units 1 through 3 of the plant, are in need of renovation due to their aging infrastructure. It was announced that Toshiba ESS’s steam turbines and generators have been chosen for the upcoming renovation project.

 This will increase the power output of Units 1 through 3 from the current 15mw to 21mw each, enabling them to achieve a higher output with less steam. These points were highly evaluated by KenGen and led to the adoption of the contract.

 Kenya's economic growth has led to an increased demand for power, prompting the government to implement a comprehensive development plan known as Vision 2030.

 This initiative includes measures to enhance Kenya's electricity generating capacity through renewable sources and aims to achieve a complete transition to 100 percent green energy by the year 2030.

 Many new geothermal power plants are planned to tap into the 9GW geothermal potential in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley region.

 Toshiba ESS and KenGen have solidified their partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on Operation and Maintenance (O&M) services in 2022.

 By combining their expertise and networks, they aim to provide O&M services for geothermal power plants in developing countries, particularly in East Africa.

 Toshiba ESS has a strong history of successfully delivering geothermal power generation systems in Kenya and other East African countries. Their expertise in this field makes them an invaluable partner for KenGen in offering Operations & Maintenance (O&M) services for geothermal power plants.

 Furthermore, Toshiba ESS has actively promoted geothermal power generation by signing Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) on geothermal power plant business with various partners in East African nations. Their dedication to advancing sustainable energy solutions in the region is evident through their partnerships and successful project completions.

 Shinya Fujitsuka, Director and Vice President of the Power Systems Division at Toshiba ESS, expressed his satisfaction in being able to contribute to energy stability in Kenya through the provision of equipment and services.

 He emphasized that Toshiba ESS will continue to offer optimal products and solutions to meet the needs of customers, including a range of geothermal steam turbines and generators with power outputs from 1 MW to 200 MW.

 Furthermore, he reiterated their commitment to clean energy and the realization of a sustainable society, stating that Toshiba ESS will play a role in achieving a carbon-neutral society by providing geothermal power plant services both domestically and internationally.