Kenya’s renewable energy ambitions have received a major boost after the Geothermal Development Company (GDC) struck viable steam at the Silali field in Baringo. The breakthrough is expected to discharge 22 megawatts of power and marks a critical milestone in the Baringo-Silali-Paka geothermal project, which is targeting to develop 300MW spread equally across Silali, Korosi, and Paka fields.
GDC Managing Director Paul Ngugi described the Silali success as transformative, noting that one well producing 22MW equates to four average wells, significantly cutting costs each geothermal well costs about KSh700 million. Paka field, where most drilling has been done, is expected to begin generating 100MW by 2028.
GDC has already harnessed 75MW of steam and is targeting 100MW by year-end. The company plans to start construction of power plants after feasibility studies and selection of independent power producers (IPPs). These IPPs will sell electricity to Kenya Power at between KSh8 and KSh10 per unit, a more affordable rate aimed at reducing reliance on expensive thermal power and weather-prone hydro sources.
The Baringo-Silali region, outside traditional geothermal hubs like Olkaria, has a potential of 3,000MW, making it a vital frontier for Kenya’s clean energy future. Nationally, geothermal potential is estimated at 10,000MW, yet only about 950MW has been tapped.
GDC is also utilizing innovative wellhead technology for modular power generation, enabling quicker deployment and early returns while minimizing idle well time. This is especially significant as the corporation eyes financial sustainability by 2029, currently relying heavily on government funding.
Additionally, at Menengai, GDC has facilitated the development of three 35MW plants by Sosian Energy, Quantum Power East Africa, and OrPower 22. The Menengai Model, where GDC de-risks and private players invest, is projected to reduce carbon emissions by 1.95 million tonnes annually and push Kenya to the fifth spot globally in geothermal production.
With plans to inject an extra 1,065MW into the grid in the next decade, GDC is steering Kenya toward energy self-sufficiency and industrial growth powered by clean, reliable geothermal energy.
