The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has rallied participants at the World Geothermal Congress to invest in the Country’s Geothermal sector.
The call was made at the World Geothermal Congress in Calgary, Canada, during which EPRA Ag. Director General Dr Eng. Joseph Oketch noted that Kenya remains abundant with geothermal resources and that the country’s electricity sector remains organised and guided by technically and economically sound tools.
“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 ensuring all actors follow a common framework and that energy planning is economically efficient and technically sound,” said Dr. Oketch.
Kenya’s electricity sector is guided by key planning instruments, such as the Least Cost Power Development Plan (LCPDP), which outlines optimal electricity generation and transmission expansion pathways and policy frameworks such as the National Energy Policy and the Integrated National Energy Plan (INEP).
Both frameworks ensure coordinated and sustainable development across all energy subsectors. The LCPDP identifies geothermal as a key resource for providing reliable baseload power and has comparatively low electricity production costs.
The Ag. Director General added that EPRA is keen on establishing Regulatory Frameworks that support geothermal growth in Kenya.
“We are making significant strides in establishing frameworks that enhance the operational environment for geothermal energy investments. We are finalising the Draft Geothermal Resources Regulations 2026, which are designed to streamline the permitting and licensing processes in the geothermal space while ensuring environmental health and safety (EHS) compliance.”
He added: “Once enacted, The Geothermal Resources Regulations 2026 will be pivotal in promoting responsible geothermal development in Kenya.
By establishing 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 developed.”
Dr. Oketch stressed the importance of collaborative frameworks both locally and internationally with stakeholders, 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.”
EPRA remains dedicated to enhancing the clarity and efficiency of the regulatory process, ensuring that all geothermal exploration and exploitation projects are executed with the utmost consideration for environmental stewardship and community impact.
The participation at the World Geothermal Congress aligns with EPRA’s vision of promoting and regulating the sustainable utilisation of geothermal resources in Kenya.
By Joseph Ng’ang’a
