Globeleq is on track to commission its 35MW Menengai geothermal power plant to Kenya’s national grid by mid-year, strengthening the country’s clean energy capacity and advancing long-term energy security goals.
This confirmation was made by the Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Geothermal Development Company (GDC), Mr. Stephen Busieney, following a high-level meeting held yesterday in Nairobi.
The meeting brought together the Globeleq leadership team, led by Board Chair Mr. Rick Menell, and senior officials from GDC, including Board Chair Mr. Walter Nyambati and Ag. MD & CEO Mr. Busieney. The engagement focused on reviewing project progress and aligning final implementation steps ahead of grid connection.
Project Progress on Track
According to the update shared during the meeting, development of the 35MW Menengai geothermal power plant is progressing as planned. Key construction milestones have been achieved, and remaining works are advancing within the agreed timelines.
Globeleq expressed confidence that the facility will be commissioned to the national grid by mid-year, marking a significant step forward for Kenya’s geothermal power ambitions. Once operational, the plant will contribute reliable baseload power, supporting grid stability and reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based generation.
Mr. Busieney noted that the project reflects the success of public-private collaboration in unlocking Kenya’s geothermal potential.
“The Menengai geothermal projects demonstrate how strategic partnerships can accelerate energy infrastructure delivery while supporting national development priorities,” he said.
Strategic Importance of Menengai Geothermal
Located in Nakuru County, the Menengai geothermal field is one of Africa’s most promising geothermal resources. Developed by GDC, the field is designed to host multiple independent power producers, each generating electricity using steam supplied from GDC’s wells.
The Globeleq 35MW plant is among the flagship projects under this model. It aligns with Kenya’s broader energy transition strategy, which prioritizes renewable energy sources such as geothermal, wind, and solar to meet growing electricity demand.
Geothermal power plays a critical role in Kenya’s energy mix due to its reliability. Unlike hydropower, which can be affected by climate variability, geothermal provides consistent output throughout the year. This makes it particularly valuable for industrial growth and urban demand.
Leadership Commendation and National Impact
GDC Board Chair Mr. Walter Nyambati commended Globeleq for the progress made on the project and emphasized the importance of timely delivery.
“Timely commissioning of strategic power projects like Menengai is essential in supporting national energy security and driving economic growth,” Mr. Nyambati said.
He added that the project supports Kenya’s goal of maintaining affordable electricity tariffs by increasing supply from low-cost renewable sources.
Once connected to the grid, the 35MW plant is expected to power thousands of homes and businesses, while also supporting industrial zones and critical infrastructure.
Supporting Kenya’s Clean Energy Goals
Kenya is globally recognized as a leader in geothermal energy, ranking among the top producers worldwide. The country continues to invest heavily in expanding geothermal capacity as part of its climate commitments and economic development agenda.
Projects such as the Menengai geothermal power plant directly support Kenya’s targets under its National Energy Policy and Vision 2030, which seek to ensure universal access to reliable, sustainable, and affordable energy.
For Globeleq, the project reinforces its growing footprint in Africa’s power sector. The company has been actively investing in renewable energy projects across the continent, focusing on long-term infrastructure that delivers both economic and environmental benefits.
Next Steps Toward Commissioning
With commissioning targeted for mid-year, focus will now shift to final installation works, system testing, and grid integration in coordination with Kenya Power and other sector stakeholders.
GDC and Globeleq officials reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close collaboration to ensure a smooth transition from construction to commercial operation.
As Kenya’s electricity demand continues to rise, driven by population growth, industrialization, and digital expansion, the addition of the 35MW Menengai geothermal plant is expected to play a meaningful role in strengthening the national grid.
For the water, energy, and infrastructure sectors across Africa, the project stands as a practical example of how geothermal development can deliver dependable power while advancing sustainability goals.
