EEC PARTNERS WITH KENGEN TO ADVANCE GEOTHERMAL ENERGY PROJECTS
MBABANE – The Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) has partnered with Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) for the electricity generation in the country through geothermal generation.
Early this month, EEC officially launched phase two of the geothermal steam project, which seeks to explore the potential for generating clean, renewable energy using geothermal steam, marking a pivotal step towards energy security and economic sustainability for the Kingdom of Eswatini through a feasibility study. Speaking at the project’s official launch, EEC Managing Director Ernest Mkhonta expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasising that the project represents a critical step in Eswatini’s pursuit of renewable energy sources.
He noted that this partnership with KenGen, Africa’s leader in geothermal development, would bring invaluable experience and expertise to Eswatini’s geothermal exploration.
“This initiative seeks to unlock a powerful and sustainable energy source: Geothermal steam. Our aim is to generate base load power using renewable energy, ensuring a cleaner and more reliable electricity supply for the nation. This project aligns with EEC’s commitment to sustainability and energy security,” said Mkhonta.The project will focus on three key areas identified during a reconnaissance survey earlier this year: Mvutshini in the Lobamba area, Mkhoba near Piggs Peak, and the Lubombo Plateau around Magadzavane.
Detailed geoscientific surveys will now be conducted in these areas, and if sufficient geothermal steam is confirmed, exploratory drilling will follow, marking the next phase of development.
KenGen’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Peter Waweru Njenga, expressed his company’s excitement to collaborate with EEC on this venture. Drawing on decades of experience in geothermal energy, KenGen has committed to providing technical support and knowledge sharing throughout the project. “We began our geothermal journey in the 1950s, and today, KenGen is one of the world’s leading geothermal developers. We are proud to share this expertise with Eswatini as you explore your own geothermal potential,” said Njenga.
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