Kenya today rallied investors attending the World Geothermal Congress (WGC) to invest in its geothermal subsector, stating that a sustainable regulatory framework is underway to facilitate more investments.
Addressing participants at the WGC event in Calgary, Canada, Joseph Oketch, Acting Director General at the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), said Kenya is making significant strides in establishing a framework that enhances the operational environment for geothermal energy investments.
“We are finalising the Draft Geothermal Resources Regulations 2026, which is designed to streamline and establish clear protocols for permitting and licensing.
We are not only attracting investment into the sector but also ensuring that environmental and safety standards are met comprehensively. This creates a win-win for both the industry and the communities where these resources are to be developed.”
Oketch stressed the importance of collaborative frameworks with stakeholders, both locally and internationally, stating,
“As we advance our regulatory frameworks, we are committed to engaging with both local and international partners to shape an inclusive regulatory environment that supports innovation and sustainable practices in geothermal energy. We are keen to position Kenya as a leader in geothermal development on the global stage.”
The DG noted that Kenya remains abundant with geothermal resources and that the country’s electricity sector is organised and guided by technically and economically sound tools.
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“We are currently overseeing the implementation of the INEP Regulations 2025, which seek to align county energy plans with national plans, ensuring coherence across levels of government and that all actors follow a common framework, making energy planning economically efficient and technically sound,” said Oketch.
EPRA remains committed to enhancing the clarity and efficiency of the regulatory process, ensuring that all geothermal exploration and exploitation projects are conducted with utmost consideration for environmental stewardship and community impact.
Participation in the World Geothermal Congress aligns with EPRA’s vision of promoting and regulating the sustainable utilization of geothermal resources in Kenya.
