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GDC expects Baringo-Silali geothermal project to impact regional economic development

GDC expects Baringo-Silali geothermal project to impact regional economic development GDC roject kick-off celebration at Baringo-Silali, Kenya (source: video snapshot)
Alexander Richter 19 Sep 2018

With the development of the Baringo-Silali geothermal project in Kenya, GDC sees big opportunities in a transformation of the local economy.

In a blog post by Kenya’s Geothermal Development Company, the company highlights the importance of geothermal development at Baringo-Silali, Kenya for the regional ecomony.

Energy Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Hon. Simon Kachapin has said that the development of the Baringo-Silali Geothermal Project will have a huge impact in transforming the region into an economic hub. Speaking when he toured the project Hon. Kachapin lauded the progress saying soon investors will be flocking to the region once the drilling operations and later power generation starts.

“This is a huge project not only in this area but also in the country. The lives of the local communities will never be the same again due to the impact of the project. We shall have industrial parks here which will utilize the direct uses of geothermal energy. This will largely change the economy of the region which solely depends on livestock,” he said.

Hon. Kachapin reassured GDC of the Ministry of Energy’s support towards the full implementation of the Baringo-Silali project.

“The project will lower the cost of energy in Kenya. I am happy that the project has been accepted by the community and we hope the implementation of the project will be a great success,” he added.

The German Development Bank (KfW) mission team who were on tour said they are happy with the progress and the timeliness set. “We are impressed by the implementation progress of the project. We are looking forward for the commencement of drilling operations in the area. KfW will continue to support GDC in its quest to avail clean energy to the country,” said Michael Andres Senior Project Manager (KfW).

Geothermal Development Company MD & CEO Eng. Johnson P. Ole Nchoe said the support from KfW and Ministry of Energy has made it easier for the company to meet the project timeliness.

“We are honoured to host the representative from the German Development Bank (KfW) and the Ministry of Energy’s Chief Administrative Secretary Hon. Simon Kachapin to our Baringo-Silali project. We are on course in the development of the Baringo-Silali Project. The completion of the water points will allow GDC to commence exploration drilling in November,” said the CEO.

Source: GDC