Abstract

Kenya’s heavy reliance on hydroelectricity production has made the country vulnerable to climate change impacts, such as drought and erratic rainfall patterns. Kenya needs to develop a more resilient and stable supply of electricity, while rapidly developing its base load of electricity production to meet growing demand. Although the path of least resistance would be to expand its fossil fuel-based thermal production, Kenya’s Vision 2030 strategy places priority on low-carbon development including renewable energy development – with geothermal playing a critical role. Energy sector reforms in Kenya are beginning to stimulate and fast-track the country’s geothermal industry in line with the country’s vision of climate compatible development. The country is finding ways to overcome constraints within the sector and obtain project financing. This is supported by several enabling factors and concrete measures taken by the Government of Kenya (GoK) with the aim of creating a viable and sustainable national geothermal industry.