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KenGen Risks Losing Olkaria Geothermal Wells Over Licence Error

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 ...

Geothermal Case Studies of Whipstocks and Deflectors ,Reykjanes and Salton Sea Geothermal Projects

Whipstocks and Deflectors in Geothermal Energy Drilling: Enhancing Efficiency and Precision Overview Geothermal energy, as a sustainable and renewable resource, has gained significant attention in recent years. Efficient drilling practices play a crucial role in harnessing this energy source. This research article explores the application of whipstocks and deflectors in geothermal energy drilling, examining their role in enhancing drilling efficiency, precision, and overall project success. 1. Introduction: Geothermal drilling involves unique challenges, such as high temperatures, varying rock formations, and the need for precision in reaching geothermal reservoirs. Whipstocks and deflectors serve as pivotal tools in optimizing drilling processes. 2. Whipstocks: Whipstocks are mechanical devices designed to guide the drill bit in a predetermined direction. This section delves into the types of whipstocks used in geothermal drilling, including conventional, hydraulic, and non-mechanical...

Geothermal Techboost in Phillipines

 "Revolutionizing Geothermal Power: USTDA Unleashes Cutting-edge Technology in the Philippines In a groundbreaking move, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has joined forces with the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) in the Philippines to spearhead a transformative geothermal project. With the strategic signing of a memorandum of understanding, USTDA is set to propel EDC's geothermal fields into a new era, embracing innovative technology from California-based powerhouse, GreenFire Energy (GFE). Imagine unlocking the potential to amplify geothermal power production by nearly 150 megawatts from previously dormant or underperforming wells. USTDA's grant signifies a pivotal moment, as it paves the way for a feasibility study and pilot project that could reshape the landscape of clean energy in the Philippines. Enoh T. Ebong, USTDA’s Director, emphasizes the urgency of combating climate change through collaborative efforts. He states, "Cutting-edge innovation...

Get an Online Degree in Renewable Energy Technology and Management

Unlocking the Future of Sustainable Energy and Innovation: Alphaxioms Institute In a world where the relentless march of technology and the ever-increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions collide, there is a crucible of knowledge, a place where the future is not just written but nurtured - Alphaxioms Institute. Prepare to be captivated. Brace yourself for a journey that will leave your nerves tingling with excitement. Welcome to Alphaxioms Institute, where we offer the key to unlocking the limitless potential of Renewable Energy and Technology Management. Shaping Tomorrow's Leaders At Alphaxioms Institute, we understand that the world is on the cusp of a profound energy revolution. The shift towards clean, renewable energy sources is no longer a choice but a necessity. As the world grapples with climate change and environmental challenges, the demand for experts who can lead the charge toward a sustainable future has never been greater. Our institute is not just an educatio...

Geothermal Energy Drilling Decarbornised

Alphaxioms Pioneers Decarbonization in Geothermal Energy: Revolutionizing Steam Extraction Through Innovative Drilling Techniques. Geothermal energy has long been heralded as a sustainable and eco-friendly source of power. Harnessing the Earth's natural heat, geothermal power plants produce electricity with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. However, the drilling process to access this valuable resource has historically been associated with carbon emissions and environmental concerns. Alphaxioms, a global consultancy firm, has embarked on a mission to revolutionize geothermal energy extraction by decarbonizing drilling methods. In their visionary approach, they are redefining the industry's landscape by incorporating innovative drilling rigs to mitigate the environmental impact of geothermal energy production. Decarbonizing Drilling Operations Traditional drilling methods in the geothermal industry involve the use of diesel-powered rigs that emit carbon dioxide and other polluta...

RFP: LITHIUM EXTRACTION FROM GEOTHERMAL BRINE

About Us With an urge to do things differently while meeting your energy demands. Your focus should be on Renewable Energy as the ultimate source of energy with an intent of mitigating climate change. Everyone in the energy sector is oblivious on the need of harnessing this type of energy in a much sustainable way. With indepth passion and knowledge in Renewable energy Alphaxioms is helping the world mitigate climate change half the stipulated amount of time. We are helping the world attain its sustainable developement goals. You are part of this, You will always be. You are us. Climate mitigation starts now or never Tender Document - Lithium Extraction from Geothermal Brine Tender ID:G0R3NC0 Issued By: Alphaxioms Issue Date: 30th October,2023 Submission Deadline: 28th November , 2023 Contact Person: Robert Buluma Contact Email: robertbuluma0@gmail.com Contact Phone: +254701279086 Section 1: Introduction 1.1 Objective: This Tender Document is issued to invite qualified and experienced ...

Group Gruyes Energie Starts a Geothermal Project in Switzerland

A new geothermal energy project is starting in Switzerland with a geophysical measurement campaign in GruyĂšre. Geophysical measurement campaign During the entire month of November, special vehicles will travel the streets of the GruyĂšre district to map the subsurface and assess the presence of geothermal water.  If the potential is confirmed, GĂ©othermie PrĂ©alpes SA can consider exploiting this local, renewable, clean and safe energy source. This geophysical campaign follows a preliminary study indicating interesting hydrothermal potential in GruyĂšre.  The geophysical measurements enable the acquisition of data to better understand the subsurface of the region.  Special vehicles will send waves into the ground;  these are reflected by the various geological layers and picked up by measuring devices called geophones.  The analysis of this information will make it possible to create a cartography of the subsurface. Measurements in 18 municipalities Data collection ...

Kalahari Geothermal Project Progress

Kalahari Geothermal Project in Bweengwa Nears Power Plant Level In a significant development for the renewable energy sector in Zambia, the Kalahari Geothermal Project in Bweengwa is rapidly advancing toward the establishment of a full-fledged power plant. Managing Director Moses Banda, a key figure in this ambitious project, recently shared exciting updates on the progress made. Situated in the picturesque region of Bweengwa, the Kalahari Geothermal Project has been a beacon of hope for sustainable energy production in Zambia. As the country strives to diversify its energy mix and reduce its dependence on traditional fossil fuels, geothermal energy has emerged as a promising solution. Banda's revelation that the project is nearing the power plant phase is a testament to the determination and dedication of the team behind it. Geothermal energy harnesses the Earth's natural heat from beneath the surface, and the Kalahari Project aims to tap into this clean and renewable source o...

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Ijen vs Zanskar: Blind Geothermal Energy Discovery and Development

Ijen’s Blind Geothermal System vs. Zanskar’s AI-Discovered Resources: Two Models for Finding Hidden Heat The geothermal industry is entering a new phase in which the most valuable resources may no longer be the fields marked by obvious hot springs, geysers, fumaroles, or steaming ground. Increasingly, developers are targeting “blind” or hidden geothermal systems,reservoirs that lack clear surface expressions but can still contain the temperature, permeability, and fluid needed for commercial power generation. Two examples illustrate how different parts of the industry are approaching this challenge. In Indonesia, the Blawan-Ijen geothermal field in East Java was developed through geological interpretation, magnetotelluric imaging, conceptual modelling, and drilling. The project is now operating commercially, with its first phase delivering approximately 35 MW to the Java grid under a 30-year power purchase agreement.  In the United States, Zanskar Geothermal & Minerals is using...

Vercana Electric Rig Advances Geothermal Brine Lithium Extraction Economics

Electric-Rig Direct Lithium Extraction From Geothermal Brine: The Economics of Vercana Versus Ormat Vulcan Energy Resources is pursuing an integrated model that combines geothermal drilling, direct lithium extraction, renewable electricity and industrial heat. Through its Vercana subsidiary, the company is also using electric drilling equipment designed to support the development of its Lionheart project in Germany’s Upper Rhine Valley. The approach differs from the conventional geothermal model represented by Ormat Technologies, whose core business remains geothermal power generation, equipment, project development and energy storage rather than commercial lithium recovery from geothermal brine.  The economic question is broader than whether an electric drilling rig costs less to operate than a diesel rig. The more important issue is whether electric drilling, geothermal energy and direct lithium extraction can create a more valuable integrated project than a conventional geotherm...

Western Geothermal Power Transmission Roadmap Toward 2030

Geothermal Power in the Western United States: A Transmission and Planning Roadmap to 2030 Introduction The Western United States is approaching a decisive period for geothermal power. Electricity demand is rising because of data centers, industrial electrification, population growth, electric vehicles and the replacement of retiring fossil-fuel generation. At the same time, utilities are under growing pressure to add clean resources that can operate reliably when solar and wind output declines. Geothermal power is well positioned to fill this role. Unlike weather-dependent generation, geothermal plants can provide firm electricity for long periods, support grid reliability and reduce the amount of storage required in deeply decarbonized power systems. However, the industry’s expansion will depend on more than subsurface heat and drilling technology. By 2030, transmission access, resource planning, project finance, permitting and utility procurement will determine whether geothermal be...

Jicarilla Apache Geothermal Study Wins $2.5 Million Grant

Jicarilla Apache Nation Launches $2.5 Million Geothermal Feasibility Study The Jicarilla Apache Nation in northern New Mexico has launched a major investigation into its geothermal energy potential after receiving a $2.5 million grant from the State of New Mexico. The funding will support a detailed feasibility study examining whether underground heat resources on tribal lands could be developed for electricity generation, direct heating, or other energy applications. The initiative represents an important step in the Nation’s efforts to understand and diversify its energy resources. Although the Jicarilla Apache Nation has not yet committed to building a geothermal facility, the study could provide the geological, technical, and economic information required for future investment decisions. The project is particularly significant because the Nation already has extensive experience with subsurface exploration through its oil and gas activities. Existing geological records, drilling inf...

Billionaire Families Bet on Advanced Geothermal Energy Investments

Billionaire Geothermal Families Bet on Geothermal Billionaire families and private investment offices are placing increasingly large bets on geothermal energy, especially on technologies designed to make the resource available in more locations. Their investments are helping finance enhanced geothermal systems, advanced drilling, closed-loop designs, and other approaches that could transform geothermal from a regionally concentrated power source into a globally scalable clean-energy industry. The investment surge reflects a broader change in the energy market. Electricity demand is rising because of artificial intelligence, data centers, industrial electrification, electric vehicles, and the expansion of digital infrastructure. At the same time, utilities and large corporations need power that is reliable around the clock. Solar and wind remain essential to the clean-energy transition, but their output varies with weather and time of day. Geothermal could complement these technologies ...

Global Geothermal Investment 2026: 15 High-Growth Markets

Global Geothermal Investment 2026: 15 Markets Where Developers Should Look Next Geothermal energy is entering its most investable decade yet, with developers, drilling contractors, turbine suppliers and private capital providers scanning a widening map of opportunities beyond the traditional “big five” producers.  This article profiles 15 markets where project pipelines, policy signals, resource quality and technology readiness converge to create compelling entry points in 2026 and beyond.  Why 2026 Is a Turning Point for Geothermal Capital Global geothermal investment is accelerating as governments seek firm, low‑carbon baseload to back up variable wind and solar, while advanced drilling and subsurface engineering lower costs and expand the resource base. Market analysts project the geothermal energy market to reach roughly USD 13.56 billion by 2030, up from about USD 9.81 billion in 2025, implying sustained double‑digit growth in development spend. Capital is flowing not onl...

Next-Gen Geothermal Funding 2026: VCs, Banks, Government Capital

Who Is Really Funding Next-Gen Geothermal in 2026? Next-generation geothermal has moved beyond laboratory research into a capital-intensive commercialization phase. In 2026, the most important financing is no longer coming from one investor category: venture capital funds are financing drilling, subsurface modelling and hardware; strategic energy companies are providing equipment, project access and market credibility; banks are beginning to lend against contracted projects; and governments are absorbing exploration and first-of-a-kind technology risk. The strongest financing activity is concentrated in the United States and Canada, but Europe is becoming increasingly important through Germany-based deployment, European Union grants, UK innovation support, and strategic participation from European energy companies. The central investment question is changing from “Can this technology work?” to “Can the developer deliver repeatable, financeable projects at commercial cost?” The 2026 fun...

Alberta Geothermal Startup Phase Secures Funding for High-Temperature Drilling Sensors

Alberta’s Phase Targets a Critical Geothermal Drilling Barrier With High-Temperature Sensors Alberta is using its deep oil-and-gas expertise to pursue a new opportunity beneath the surface: geothermal energy. Among the companies receiving support through Emissions Reduction Alberta’s Drilling Technology Challenge is Edmonton-based Phase Advanced Sensor Systems Corp., which is developing a high-temperature downhole pressure sensor for enhanced geothermal systems. The project addresses a problem that could determine whether deep geothermal energy becomes commercially viable: operators need reliable, accurate information from wells exposed to extreme heat and pressure. Phase plans to demonstrate a sensor capable of operating at temperatures above 200°C, with testing planned at 200°C, 250°C and 275°C.  The project has a total value of approximately C$1.57 million, including C$420,000 in ERA funding, according to Alberta’s project information.  Dealroom reported the award as approx...

Unlocking Impermeable Geothermal Reservoirs: Hydraulic Stimulation, Menengai and Olkaria

Unlocking the Impermeable Reservoir: Lessons from a 30-Year Reservoir Engineer An Alphaxioms interview with Richard Joseph Holt, Principal Consultant in Reservoir Engineering at RESPEC . Context: Menengai East and Olkaria Central. Every geothermal developer knows the moment.  The rig is gone and the money is spent. The well is drilled to depth, the temperature is there, and then the well will not flow. The heat is real, but the connection between the well and the reservoir is not. Wells like this sit at the centre of one of the most important questions in geothermal development: what do you do with a tight reservoir? Walk away and drill again, or find a way to unlock what is already there? To explore the question, Alphaxioms spoke with Richard Joseph Holt, Principal Consultant in Reservoir Engineering at RESPEC . Richard brings 30 years of global experience in geothermal energy.  We framed our questions around two settings, Menengai East and Olkaria Central, and asked him how ...

IID Secures Major, Local Geothermal Agreement to Strengthen Reliability

IID Secures 86 MW of Geothermal Power in Major Salton Sea Agreement The Imperial Irrigation District has signed 10-year agreements with BHE Renewables, through its CalEnergy subsidiary, to secure 86 megawatts of around-the-clock geothermal power from two established projects in California’s Imperial Valley. The agreement will strengthen IID’s electricity reliability, support renewable-energy compliance and help meet growing demand across the Imperial and Coachella valleys. The new contracts cover 44 MW from the Salton Sea 4 geothermal project and 42 MW from the Leathers geothermal project. Deliveries are scheduled to begin on January 1, 2027, giving IID access to dependable renewable electricity during a period of rising summer demand and increasing pressure on power systems across the American West. The agreement represents an important step in IID’s long-term resource planning. It combines existing geothermal generation with additional capacity from the Yuma Cogeneration facility in ...