Future of Kenya to be found in geothermal resources

4 December 2009

Kenya has sufficient resources for the majority of its electricity production to be met from its own energy supplies, according to a report from the Kenyan Manufacturers Association published on Tuesday 2 December by the PANA Agency.

Geothermal potential is in fact estimated at 7,000 MW. The main obstacle to the use of this energy would be shortage of funds, due to the cost of development of steam being very high.

Also according to the report, the Kenyan government is working at the moment on the best way to exploit geothermal resources, and will shortly be launching an appeal to local promoters as well as to banks who serve as partners in development.

The French Development Agency (AFD) has already made known its willingness to invest in Kenya’s own energy resources.

Jean-Michel Debrat, Assistant Director General of the AFD told the Xinhua press agency that green energy will contribute to the fight against poverty and the promotion of economic growth:

“France, like other partners, is committed to helping Kenya develop is programme for green electricity.” <br/>