Kenya showcases geothermal potential at global energy event

JOSEPH NG’ANG’A-KNA

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has rallied participants at the World Geothermal Congress to invest in Kenya’s geothermal sector.

The call was made at the World Geothermal Congress in Calgary, Canada, where EPRA Acting Director General Dr. Eng. Joseph Oketch noted that Kenya remains richly endowed with geothermal resources.

He further observed that the country’s electricity sector is well-structured and guided by technically and economically sound frameworks.

“We are currently overseeing the implementation of the INEP Regulations 2025 which seek to align county energy plans with national plans, ensuring coherence across levels of government and ensuring all actors follow a common framework and that energy planning is economically efficient and technically sound,” said Dr. Oketch.

Kenya’s electricity sector is guided by key planning instruments, such the Least Cost Power Development Plan (LCPDP), which outlines optimal electricity generation and transmission expansion pathways and policy frameworks such as the National Energy Policy and the Integrated National Energy Plan (INEP).

The Ag. Director General added that EPRA is keen on establishing Regulatory Frameworks that support geothermal growth in Kenya.

“We are making significant strides in establishing frameworks that enhance the operational environment for geothermal energy investments.

"We are finalizing the Draft Geothermal Resources Regulations 2026, which are designed to streamline the permitting and licensing processes in the geothermal space while ensuring environmental health and safety (EHS) compliance,” he added.