KENYA – Geothermal Development Company (GDC) has signed a Collaboration Framework Agreement (CFA) with the county government of Nakuru in Kenya for the utilization of geothermal energy.
The pilot project at the site showcases various Direct Uses of geothermal resources, namely pasteurization, aquaculture, and greenhouse heating. There is also a laundromat and a grain dryer.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Nakuru County Governor H. E. Lee Kinyanjui welcomed the partnership citing it as an undertaking that would greatly benefit residents of Nakuru County.
“We are exploring establishment of an industrial park that will increase quantity of goods manufactured in the county as well as create jobs for Nakuru residents,” said Governor Kinyanjui.
“This agreement will foster a partnership that will see Direct Use of geothermal resources used in agro-processing, breeding of fish, pasteurization among other uses. Geothermal technology will be used in food production hence increase productivity,” he added.
Nakuru is home to GDC’s Menengai Geothermal Project. In addition to the anticipated provision of steam for power generation to power producers once the power plants are ready, the Project also houses a demonstration site which showcases Direct Uses of geothermal energy.
The Menengai Geothermal Project is one of GDC’s projects that is under development. It has an estimated geothermal potential of 1600MW.
GDC Managing Director/CEO Jared O. Othieno expressed his optimism on the partnership and the prospects it presents.
“GDC aims to promote and market geothermal direct use of energy in agriculture, industrialization and tourism,” he noted.
“This partnership will impact the lives of the local community by improving their livelihoods and subsequently create wealth. It is therefore important to find ways in which Nakuru residents and investors can benefit from this noble project,” said Eng. Othieno.
He emphasized the fact that through this partnership, GDC will contribute towards the achievement of two of the Big 4 agenda; manufacturing and manufacturing and food security.
A joint committee for implementation of the framework will be formed to ensure the fruition of the agreement. Present at the signing ceremony were, Nakuru County Executive Committee (CEC) Raymond Komen (Trade and Tourism), Eng Festus Ng’eno (Environment, Energy and Natural resources) and County Attorney Caleb Nyamwange.
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