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Harnessing natural heat

March 9, 2010

Kenya is home to Africa's first geothermal power plant, setting an example for the entire region.

https://p.dw.com/p/MNlM
Image: Ormat

Energy type: Geothermal

Project size: Power plant produces 48 megawatts of electricity

Investment: 140 million euros ($190.5 million)

Potential: Geothermal heat could generate up to 4.5 gigawatts of electricity in the region

Until now, hydro power has been Kenya's largest energy source, but climate change is making this process increasingly difficult. Prolonged droughts result in dried-up rivers and half-empty reservoirs. Climate-damaging diesel generators are being used to keep up energy supplies but a much cleaner alternative is available: geothermal energy. Now, Africa's first private geothermal power plant is meant to set an example for the entire region.

A film by Joachim Eggers

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