The Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) is making strides in its geo-scientific studies to assess the geothermal potential in three prospective regions of Eswatini.
This follows a KSh 250 million (around $2m) contract signed earlier this year between KenGen and the state-owned Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC).
KenGen reported recently that the studies, meant to establish the feasibility of developing a geothermal power plant, “are now well underway, with completion expected in the next few months.”
Eswatini, a landlocked Kingdom in Southern Africa bordered by South Africa and Mozambique, has set its sights on harnessing geothermal energy to strengthen its renewable energy capacity and enhance energy security.
This aligns with the country’s broader commitment to sustainable development and global efforts to combat climate change by reducing carbon emissions.
Positive about Eswatini’s potential geothermal resources
KenGen Managing Director and CEO, Peter Njenga said he was optimistic that the geoscientific studies will confirm the viability of Eswatini’s geothermal resources, “enabling the country to increase its renewable energy portfolio and enhance its baseload capacity.”
“This project also reinforces KenGen’s strategy to diversify revenue streams and ensure financial sustainability through geothermal consultancy and related services,” said Njenga.
KenGen Board Chairman Frank Konuche described the partnership as a strategic move by Eswatini to tap into its natural resources while contributing to Africa’s sustainable energy goals.
“For KenGen, the project is a testament to our growing influence in geothermal development across the continent,” said Konuche.
KenGen’s experience and expertise in geothermal drilling, honed at Kenya’s Olkaria geothermal fields and in successful projects in Ethiopia, Djibouti and Tanzania, played a strategic role in securing the Eswatini contract.
The Eswatini project is one of KenGen’s latest geothermal development contracts in Africa, following successful ventures in Djibouti, Ethiopia and Tanzania. Kenya remains the continent’s leading geothermal energy producer and ranks among the top 10 globally, with an installed geothermal capacity of 754MW.
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