At COP27, Kenya calls for recognition of Africans’ nightmare and the continent’s “special needs” – in light of President William Ruto’s speech. This is the background to the project to modernize the old Olkaria I geothermal power plant in Kenya. It provides for the award of the contract for the supply of steam turbines and generators by Toshiba ESS. This project will increase the plant’s generating capacity from 45 MW to 63 MW.
The collaboration between Toshiba ESS and SEPCOIIII Electric Power Construction Co. Ltd, the contractor in charge of the project, stresses the importance of strategic partnerships in the development of sustainable energy infrastructures in Africa, as in the case of Ethiopia, which is beginning to export electricity to Kenya. This alliance combines the technical expertise of Toshiba ESS with the construction experience of SEPCOIIII, guaranteeing efficient execution of the refurbishment project.
The extension of the Olkaria I geothermal power plant is a direct response to the growing demand for electricity in Kenya and the country’s desire to diversify its energy mix. By increasing the production capacity of this facility, the Kenyan government is strengthening its energy security while reducing its dependence on fossil fuels.
A History of Innovation and Sustainability
Olkaria I, Kenya’s oldest geothermal power plant, was commissioned in 1981 and holds a prominent place in the history of renewable energy production in Africa. The renovation of this emblematic facility demonstrates Kenya’s ongoing commitment to the energy transition and the reduction of carbon emissions.
Toshiba ESS’s contribution to this project reaffirms its expertise in renewable energies and its commitment to supporting global efforts to achieve carbon neutrality. The steam turbines and generators supplied by Toshiba ESS are designed to maximize energy efficiency and reduce the plant’s carbon footprint, thus contributing to the environmental sustainability of the project.
A sustainable future thanks to geothermal energy
By increasing geothermal energy production capacity, the project will help boost the country’s energy security and stimulate sustainable economic development. Toshiba ESS’s commitment to providing sustainable energy solutions. With a range of products from small to large steam turbines and geothermal generators, Toshiba ESS aims to meet the energy needs of diverse communities around the world, while contributing to environmental sustainability goals.
The strategic partnership between Toshiba ESS and Kenya for the modernization of Olkaria I illustrates the importance of technological innovation and the desire of African countries to participate in the energy transition.
