A geothermal plant in Olkaria. Another plant to be established in Narok [ Photo/nation.co.ke]
A Chinese company has unveiled its plans to explore geothermal power in Narok County starting February.
The firm, Kaishan Holdings Group, is expected to generate 500MW of geothermal energy once it starts operations.
According to the firm’s president, Mr Kevin Cao, the company is committed to lowering the cost of electricity and creating job opportunities for Kenyans through the new project.
Speaking after a meeting to discuss the project, Narok Governor Samuel Tunai on Tuesday said that the company has been given permission to drill wells in the Suswa South-Magadi-Shompole steam fields, adding that it will transform the lives of the residents upon completion.
The meeting was also attended by the company’s geologist and Energy ministry officials. On his part, The Energy ministry’s geologist, Mr Richard Mavisi, said that the plant will mitigate the effects of drought not only in the region but also entire nation, adding that it will promote industrialization.
“When this project kicks off, it will create more jobs for our people and it will lower the cost of electricity and will be a gateway towards industrialisation in this country,” said Mr Mavisi, as quoted by a local daily.
The firm, which has experience of 60 years, will incur heavy upfront costs but the project energy source will be cheaper in the long run. The communities in the area will benefit from employment opportunities.