The Geothermal Development Company (GDC) has officially broken ground on the construction of state-of-the-art Geothermal Science and Analytical Laboratory at its Kabarak facility in Nakuru County, Kenya. The laboratory lays the foundation for the development of the Kabarak campus into what the company envisions as a regional hub for geothermal science, research, innovation, and technical excellence.
“Scientific excellence is indispensable to accelerating geothermal development. This project is therefore a strategic investment in science, innovation, research and Kenya’s clean energy future,” GDC Board Chairman Hon. Walter Nyambati during the groundbreaking ceremony.
Once completed, the facility will help GDC improve data quality and strengthen reservoir management capabilities with world-class geological, geochemical, and environmental analysis. The company will also purse ISO 17025 laboratory accreditation for the facility.
As stated by Acting Managing Director and CEO Mr. Stephen Busieney, the new laboratories will address the limitations of the temporary laboratory facilities that GDC has been relying on for the last 17 years. It would also cement GDC’s position as a true Geothermal Centre of Excellence and help strengthen Kenya’s geothermal and clean energy ambitions.
Eng. Martha Mburu, Chairperson of the Laboratory Construction Steering Committee, recounted that the laboratory facility took years of planning before finally becoming a reality. She also paid tribute to the formed GDC leaders and staff who laid the foundation for the project.
“I am excited because I know another generation will come and see what we have done and continue with this journey,” said Mburu.
Through their work in the early phase of geothermal project development, GDC is playing a vital role in de-risking prospects and attracting investment to drive forward the growth of the geothermal sector in Kenya. Through their work in the Menengai steam field, it is now nearing the initial target of 105-MW installed capacity developed through three different Independent Power Producers.
Source: GDC
