| Title | Olkaria III Geothermal Power Generation Project - Kenya |
|---|---|
| Authors | Ernest S. Mabwa |
| Year | 2010 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | Ormat Binary geothermal power plant, Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC), renewable energy, environmental, global warming, nature protection greenhouse, CO2, community contribution, Kenya |
| Abstract | As global demand for electrical energy increases, nations worldwide are moving to cleaner and more reliable energy by developing geothermal resources and other renewable sources. The threat of global warming places an increasing demand for environmental compliance. Geothermal power generation provides low cost and reliable electricity, and in addition has immense benefits compared to the more expensive import-dependent fossil fuel plants. Not only that, but it also yields to the pressure to operate an environmentally benign system. Orpower 4, Inc., operating in Olkaria III located in the Hells Gate National Park in the Rift Valley of Kenya, had to meet additional environmental requirements set by the Kenya Wildlife Services. The design and construction of the power plant had to integrate the park requirements, with the special needs of the animal population and maintain the delicate ecosystems, their associated life complexities and physical integrity. The power plant was able to meet the required level of environmental compliance and generate electricity achieving over 98% availability. The system uses the organic rankine cycle to maximise the use of all available heat in the steam and liquid to generate electricity. The waste water is reinjected deep into the reservoir to replenish the aquifer, while the CO2 is piped to a neighboring flower farm to enhance flower production. The construction of the early generation facility in phase I of the project in 2000 generated 12 MW of electricity and the recently completed phase II has achieved an additional 36 MW. Operation of the plant includes regular monitoring of the fauna and flora to ensure evironmental compliance, with regular quarterly meetings with the park authorities – Kenya Wildlife Services. The project also benefits the local Maasai communities by assisting in the building of school infrastructure, enhancing the education of young girls and providing additional education and assistance to women’s groups. |