The general objective of the present report is to frame the state-of-the-art on the geothermal resource development in East African Countries (Eritrea, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania and Comoros) and two Southern African countries (Malawi and Zambia). For the sake of simplicity, all the above countries will be collectively referred to as “East African countries”.
The focus of the report is on geothermal activities aimed at generating electric power by using either flashing or Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) plants. The results of the research allow to draft a summary of the present status of geothermal development initiatives underway in each Country, distinguishing between: surface exploration projects; drilling exploration projects; well field development and power plant design and construction projects; exploited geothermal fields.
The business models implemented are discussed, in relation with the peculiar features of the geothermal energy which is characterized by important initial investments and limited operating and maintenance expenditures, as most of the renewable energy sources, but having peculiar remarkable mining risks mainly related to the exploration drilling phase.
Constraints delaying a more widespread use of geothermal energy for electric power generation in East Africa are analysed together with the role of international and financial institutions in providing funds and risk mitigation opportunities, support in capacity building and the development of national legal frameworks needed for an improved and faster development of geothermal resources in East Africa.
- Annex 63: Battistelli A., 2020. Status of geothermal industry in East African countries. ACEWATER2 report JRC123943 (Main deliverable)
- Annex 64: Battistelli A., 2020. Presentation on Status of geothermal industry in East African countries. ACEWATER2 report JRC123943 (Component of deliverable)