Toshiba generation equipment order will deliver improved power output in Kenya

Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation (Toshiba ESS) has landed an order for high-performance steam turbines and generators as Kenya’s oldest geothermal power plant undergoes renovation.

The Japanese company has confirmed the deal with SEPCOIII Electric Power Construction Co., Ltd for equipment that improves power generation output by 40% compared to conventional models. Toshiba’s technology is for the renovation of Units 1 through 3 at the 45MW Olkaria I geothermal power plant and will be shipped to the site by December 2025.

New generation equipment will boost output

Olkaria I is the oldest geothermal power plant in Kenya, having been in commercial operation by Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) since 1981. Units 1 through 3 were identified as requiring renovation due to aging with Toshiba ESS steam turbines and generators assessed and selected as replacements.

They will increase the power output of those units from the current 15MW to 21MW each, enabling higher output with less steam.

Toshiba technology enabling Kenyan development

Kenya’s economic growth is spurring a demand for power that has seen the government respond with Vision 2030, a comprehensive blueprint for development which currently includes provision for boosting the country’s electricity generating capacity from renewable sources, and seeks to transition to 100% green energy by 2030.

Several new geothermal power plants are therefore planned to tap into the 9GW geothermal potential of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley region.

Shinya Fujitsuka, Director and Vice President of the Power Systems Division at Toshiba ESS, said his company was pleased to “contribute to energy stability in Kenya” by providing equipment and services.

Japanese ingenuity part of African growth story

Toshiba ESS claims several successful deliveries, providing geothermal power generation systems in Kenya and other East African countries.

Fujitsuka added: “Toshiba ESS will continue to provide optimal products and solutions to meet customer needs through its lineup of small to large geothermal steam turbines and generators with power outputs ranging from 1MW to 200MW.

“Aiming for further clean energy indispensable for the realisation of a sustainable society, we will contribute to the realisation of a carbon neutral society by providing geothermal power plant services both in Japan and overseas.”