| Abstract |
Kenya’s growing geothermal capacity and rising demand for sustainable agricultural inputs present a timely opportunity to develop integrated green energy systems. The country’s reliance on imported nitrogen fertilizers, amid volatile global prices and climate concerns, highlights the strategic potential of locally producing green hydrogen for ammonia synthesis. Additionally, past drought seasons have highlighted the value of resilient geothermal power to offset reductions in hydropower generation. The underutilized eastern periphery of the Olkaria Domes geothermal field offers a viable site, with volumetric assessments indicating a long-term generation potential exceeding 40 MWe at reservoir temperatures of 250–300°C. This study investigates the techno-economic feasibility of a hybrid geothermal system integrating either a single-flash or Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) with on-site solid oxide electrolysis (SOEC) for green hydrogen production. The system uses a cascaded energy approach, with geothermal power supporting both grid supply and electrolysis, while residual thermal energy boosts hydrogen output. This setup enhances energy recovery, improves geothermal utilization, and enables hydrogen production independent of grid variability. Thermodynamic models incorporate site-specific resource data to evaluate thermal and power cycles, optimizing hydrogen production, system efficiency, and resource use. Economic analysis assesses capital and operating costs, electricity and hydrogen production costs, and overall project viability, including sensitivity analyses. The study proposes a phased implementation strategy and timeline. By leveraging Olkaria’s geothermal resources, the project aligns with Kenya’s energy resilience and agricultural goals, while supporting the broader vision of establishing integrated geothermal industrial parks in the country’s clean energy transition. |