East African Rift Geothermal Power
Geography: Emea · Africa · Africa
Kenya has developed one of the world's most successful geothermal energy programs, harnessing the volcanic heat of the East African Rift Valley. The Olkaria geothermal complex in Naivasha produces 985 MW, making Kenya the largest geothermal power producer in Africa and 7th globally. Geothermal now provides approximately 46% of Kenya's total electricity generation — one of the highest shares of any country.
The Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) and the Geothermal Development Company (GDC) have built indigenous expertise in geothermal exploration, drilling, and power plant construction over four decades. Kenya's geothermal wells reach depths of 2-3 km into the earth's crust, tapping steam at temperatures exceeding 300°C. The country has an estimated 10,000 MW of untapped geothermal potential along the Rift Valley.
Kenya's geothermal success is now being exported. Ethiopian, Djiboutian, and Tanzanian geothermal projects are benefiting from Kenyan technical expertise. The Rift Valley's geothermal resources extend across multiple countries, and Kenya's proven development model provides a template for the entire region. This is baseload renewable energy — available 24/7 regardless of weather — making it a cornerstone of East Africa's decarbonization strategy.
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