The Menengai Geothermal Project is set to reach a significant milestone tomorrow with the groundbreaking of a 35 MW power plant by OrPower Twenty-Two, the third Independent Power Producer (IPP) at the site. The event will be presided over by H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, CGH., marking an important step in Kenya’s transition to clean and reliable energy.
This development underscores Kenya’s commitment to sustainable energy generation and highlights the pivotal role of the Geothermal Development Company (GDC) in enhancing the country’s energy mix. Phase I of the Menengai project targets to generate 105 MW. Two other Independent Power Producers (IPPs) are already on site. The first one, Sosian, started to generate 35 MW in late 2023. The second IPP (Globeleq) is constructing the power plant, which will also generate 35 MW upon completion.
The construction of this third power plant promises wide-ranging benefits, such as lower electricity costs. Power from the Menengai Geothermal Project is the most competitively priced at 7 $cts/ kWh.
The project will also create job opportunities and boost economic growth. It also showcases the successful collaboration between the government and private sector players. This groundbreaking event solidifies GDC’s position as a leader in geothermal energy development, advancing the mission to reduce energy costs for Kenyans.