Calgary: 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 congress in Calgary, Canada, where EPRA Ag. Director General Dr. Eng. Joseph Oketch emphasized Kenya’s abundance of geothermal resources and the organized nature of its electricity sector, guided by technically and economically sound tools.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Oketch highlighted the ongoing implementation of the INEP Regulations 2025. These regulations aim to align county energy plans with national strategies, ensuring coherence across government levels and a unified framework for energy planning. This coordination ensures economic efficiency and technical soundness in energy planning.
Kenya’s electricity sector relies on key planning instruments like the Least Cost Power Development Plan (LCPDP), which identifies optimal pathways for electricity generation and transmission expansion. Policy frameworks such as the National Energy Policy and the Integrated National Energy Plan (INEP) complement these tools to ensure sustainable development across all energy subsectors. The LCPDP identifies geothermal energy as a crucial resource for providing reliable baseload power with low electricity production costs.
Dr. Oketch stated that EPRA is focused on establishing regulatory frameworks to support geothermal growth in Kenya. Significant progress is being made in enhancing the operational environment for geothermal investments, including the finalization of the Draft Geothermal Resources Regulations 2026. These regulations aim to streamline permitting and licensing processes while ensuring compliance with environmental health and safety standards.
Once enacted, the Geothermal Resources Regulations 2026 will play a pivotal role in promoting responsible geothermal development in Kenya. By establishing clear protocols for permitting and licensing, EPRA aims to attract investment into the sector while ensuring comprehensive adherence to environmental and safety standards. This approach seeks to benefit both the industry and the communities surrounding geothermal development projects.
Dr. Oketch emphasized the importance of collaborative frameworks with stakeholders both locally and internationally. He stated EPRA’s commitment to engaging with partners to shape an inclusive regulatory environment that fosters innovation and sustainable practices in geothermal energy. The goal is to position Kenya as a leader in geothermal development on the global stage.
EPRA is dedicated to enhancing the clarity and efficiency of the regulatory process, ensuring that all geothermal exploration and exploitation projects are conducted with a strong focus on environmental stewardship and community impact. Participation at the World Geothermal Congress reflects EPRA’s vision of promoting and regulating the sustainable utilization of geothermal resources in Kenya.
