KenGen Risks Losing Olkaria Wells Over 18-Year Licence Blunder Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) faces a serious legal and operational risk at Olkaria after an error in the coordinates of its geothermal licence left part of the company’s wells, steam infrastructure and other assets outside its legally recognised area. The licensing mistake, made nearly two decades ago, remains unresolved despite the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum acknowledging the problem in 2017. The dispute has raised questions about the security of KenGen’s investments, the government’s management of geothermal resources and the potential consequences for Kenya’s electricity supply. Olkaria is the country’s most important geothermal centre and accounts for the overwhelming majority of Kenya’s installed geothermal generation capacity. Licence Error Exposes Strategic Assets The problem dates back to September 19, 2008, when the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum issued KenGen a licence covering ...
The Top 10 Geothermal Producing Countries in the World
Geothermal energy, harnessed from the Earth's internal heat, has emerged as a sustainable and reliable source of power. As countries around the globe shift towards cleaner energy alternatives, geothermal power plays a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and meeting the growing demand for electricity. Here are the top 10 world geothermal producing countries, showcasing their commitment to harnessing the Earth's natural heat.
1. United States:
The United States leads the world in geothermal energy production, with vast resources located primarily in the western states. States like California and Nevada boast numerous geothermal power plants, contributing significantly to the country's renewable energy portfolio.
2. Philippines:
The Philippines is a geothermal powerhouse in Asia, ranking second globally in geothermal energy production. The country's unique geological setting, characterized by active volcanoes, provides ample opportunities for geothermal exploration and development.
3. Indonesia:
Indonesia, an archipelago with a high level of volcanic activity, harnesses geothermal energy to meet its growing electricity demand. The country's commitment to expanding geothermal capacity places it among the top producers worldwide.
4. New Zealand:
New Zealand relies heavily on geothermal power, especially for electricity generation. The country's geothermal plants are strategically located in the Taupo Volcanic Zone, showcasing the effectiveness of utilizing geothermal reservoirs for sustainable energy production.
5. Kenya:
Kenya stands out as a geothermal leader in Africa, leveraging the East African Rift's geothermal potential. The country's ambitious geothermal projects contribute significantly to its goal of increasing the share of renewable energy in its power generation mix.
6. Iceland:
With its unique geology and abundant geothermal resources, Iceland utilizes geothermal energy for both electricity generation and heating. The majority of homes in Iceland are heated geothermally, showcasing the versatility of this renewable energy source.
7. Italy:
Italy has a long history of geothermal energy use, with the first geothermal power plant dating back to 1904. The country's geothermal plants, located mainly in Tuscany, contribute substantially to Italy's renewable energy capacity.
8. Mexico:
Mexico has been actively expanding its geothermal capacity, tapping into the geothermal reservoirs located in areas like the Cerro Prieto geothermal field. Geothermal power plays a crucial role in diversifying Mexico's energy mix and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
9. Japan:
Japan's geothermal energy production has gained momentum in recent years, driven by efforts to transition away from nuclear power. The country's geothermal plants, situated along its volcanic belt, contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
10. Papua New Guinea:
Papua New Guinea has emerged as a geothermal producer in the Pacific region, harnessing the Earth's heat to meet its energy needs. Geothermal projects in the country showcase the potential for sustainable development in island nations.
As these countries continue to invest in geothermal technology, they not only reduce their carbon footprint but also set an example for others to follow in the global transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. Geothermal energy's reliability and low environmental impact position it as a key player in the quest for a greener future.
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