KenGen’s Olkaria Topping Units: A Strategic Leap for Kenya’s Geothermal Dominance By: Robert Buluma Image: Kengen Olkaria Field Kenya’s geothermal sector is once again stepping into a higher gear. The release of the RFP for Olkaria Topping Units under reference KGN-BDD-001-2026 signals a bold strategic move by KenGen to maximize steam efficiency, increase power output, and reinforce Kenya’s leadership in geothermal development across Africa. What Are Olkaria Topping Units — And Why Do They Matter? Located in the prolific Olkaria geothermal complex within the Great Rift Valley, the project introduces topping units designed to extract additional energy from high-pressure steam before it enters existing power plants. This is not just an upgrade , it is optimization at scale. Topping units: Increase overall plant efficiency Utilize excess high-pressure steam Enhance megawatt output without drilling entirely new fields Improve return on existing geothermal infrastructure In a capital-inten...
Nevis Geothermal Energy Project Advances with Iceland Drilling Selected for Landmark Drilling Contract By: Robert Buluma The Nevis Geothermal Energy Project has taken a decisive and exciting step forward. In early 2026, the Nevis Island Administration (NIA ) officially selected Iceland Drilling Company (Jardboranir hf. ) as the successful bidder for the critical drilling phase. This award marks a major milestone after years of planning, positioning Nevis closer than ever to harnessing its geothermal resources for clean, reliable baseload power. Premier the Honourable Mark Brantley, Minister of Finance and Energy, has repeatedly highlighted the significance of this development. In updates shared during his January 27, 2026, press conference and subsequent interviews, he confirmed that Iceland Drilling emerged as the top performer in a rigorous, independent evaluation process. The contract covers the drilling of five major geothermal wells—three production wells and two reinjection wel...