- GDC and Iroko Africa to undertake feasibility studies on direct use geothermal steam for industrial applications.
- Project aims to lower industrial energy costs and cut emissions while boosting green manufacturing in Nakuru County.
- Initiative builds on growing regional collaboration in geothermal development at Menengai.
Kenya’s Geothermal Development Company (GDC) has entered into a collaboration with South African engineering and consulting firm Iroko Africa to carry out technical and financial feasibility studies on the commercial use of geothermal steam and heat from the Menengai geothermal field in Nakuru County.
The studies will focus on the direct use of geothermal energy in industrial processes, an approach that allows steam and heat from geothermal wells to be supplied directly to factories without electricity generation. This model is increasingly viewed as a cost effective and low carbon solution for energy intensive industries.
Iroko Africa specializes in industrial decarbonization, energy efficiency and climate adaptation and operates as the African subsidiary of France based Manergy Group. The company works with industrial clients across the continent to integrate energy efficiency, low carbon systems and climate resilience into operational facilities.
Speaking during a meeting with Iroko Africa representatives, Nakuru Deputy Governor Dr David Kones said the joint studies will explore how geothermal steam can be used to supply reliable heat for industrial processes while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. He added that access to affordable and clean thermal energy will enhance Kenya’s attractiveness as an investment destination for manufacturers seeking to reduce operating costs.
The partnership marks the latest involvement of South African institutions in the development of the Menengai geothermal resource. In 2024, the Development Bank of Southern Africa announced a credit investment to support the expansion of the existing 35 MW geothermal power plant operated by Sosian Energy, which began operations in August 2023.
GDC has also previously engaged local industry players on direct use applications. One such agreement involved cement manufacturer Karsan Ramji and Sons, which signed a 25 year contract for the supply of 40 tons of geothermal steam per hour for power generation and drying processes at its cement plant. The project is widely regarded as the world’s first direct use geothermal application in the cement sector.
These industrial steam offtake agreements are central to the planned Menengai Geothermal Powered Industrial Park. The initiative is expected to generate additional revenue for GDC, create productive use for geothermal wells that are unsuitable for power generation, and support job creation for surrounding communities. It also positions Nakuru County as an emerging hub for green and sustainable industrial development.
“This model is the future of geothermal. We are optimistic that more investors will find value by emulating this approach,” Dr Kones said.
GDC has led drilling, steam field development and resource management at Menengai since 2010. Power plant construction and operations were later awarded to three independent power producers. Sosian Energy was the first to come online in 2023, while the second plant, being developed by OrPower 22, is expected to begin operations in the first half of 2026.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
