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 ...
Szczecin Takes a Bold Step Toward Energy Self-Sufficiency With New 2-Kilometer Geothermal Well
By: Robert Buluma
Szczecin has officially launched one of its most ambitious energy initiatives yet,signing a contract for the construction of a nearly 2-kilometer geothermal exploratory well, a move city leaders are calling “a step toward true energy self-sufficiency.”
The new well, designed to determine the geothermal potential beneath the city, could unlock a reliable, clean, and locally available heat source that strengthens energy security while reducing environmental impact.
A Strategic Investment in Clean, Local Energy
According to the City Hall, the exploratory-reconnaissance well will help verify whether the geological structures beneath Szczecin contain high-yield geothermal reservoirs suitable for long-term heat production.
“We hope this becomes another source of energy that allows us to diversify supply, ensure continuity of services, and maintain financial stability while protecting the natural environment,"
said Anna Szotkowska, Deputy Mayor of Szczecin.
If successful, the resource could support district heating networks, reduce reliance on traditional fuels, and stabilize heat prices for residents,an increasingly important objective in today’s volatile energy markets.
Drilling to Begin Near Dąbska Street Heating Plant
The well will be drilled near the heating facility on Dąbska Street in the Majowe district a strategic location already integrated into the city's energy infrastructure.
The project, valued at 15.1 million PLN' will be executed by UOS Drilling S.A., a company with extensive experience in deep geothermal development.
A significant portion,12.9 million PLN has been funded by Poland’s National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management (NFOŚiGW), demonstrating strong national support for expanding geothermal exploration.
The contractor will have 12 months to complete the full scope of work.
24/7 Drilling, But Minimal Nuisance Expected
UOS Drilling S.A. CEO Arkadiusz Biedulski reassured residents that the operation will be continuous but not disruptive:
“The coming months will focus on formal, legal, and organizational preparations. The drilling itself should take approximately 3–4 months. The rig will operate 24 hours a day, but it should not cause significant inconvenience for the surrounding community."
Continuous drilling is standard for geothermal wells of this depth, ensuring the project stays on schedule and maintains structural integrity throughout the operation.
Geological Oversight by Multiconsult
To guarantee accuracy and scientific rigor, the geological supervision and oversight will be handled by Multiconsult, a well-respected engineering and consulting firm.
Their role includes:
conducting laboratory analyses,
preparing hydrological documentation,
summarizing the results of the exploratory drilling,
and determining the viability of full-scale geothermal development.
The findings from this well will play a crucial role in shaping Szczecin’s future district heating strategy.
A Potential Turning Point for Szczecin’s Energy FutureSubscribe to our Innovative Geothermal Newsletter
Geothermal energy has rapidly become one of Europe’s most promising sustainable heat sources. Cities such as Reykjavik, Munich, and Paris are already leveraging deep geothermal systems to stabilize heat prices and cut emissions.
Szczecin’s initiative positions the city alongside European leaders boldly investing in long-term, clean energy security.
If the geothermal reservoir beneath Szczecin proves viable, the benefits could be transformative:
Stable and predictable heating costs
Reduced dependence on external fuel suppliers
Lower carbon emissions
Strengthened local energy independence
This first well may be the beginning of a broader geothermal strategy for the city.
Szczecin’s geothermal journey has officially begun.
The next 12 months,and the scientific data they yield,will determine whether the city can tap into the Earth’s natural heat and set a powerful example for sustainable urban energy across Poland.
Source:LinkedIn
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