Predictive model for sustainable exploitation of geothermal resources in Africa: The case of Olkaria geothermal field
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Geothermal energy represents a crucial resource for a sustainable future, particularly in Africa’s Rift Valley, which holds significant untapped potential. Despite this, high upfront costs and development risks remain major barriers. This study introduces a simplified model calibrated with real data from the Olkaria geothermal field in Kenya. The model enables rapid preliminary assessments of both technical and economic performance, requiring only minimal input data. Additionally, it incorporates a Life Cycle Assessment to evaluate environmental impacts, an aspect rarely explored in African geothermal studies. The research analyses various technological configurations, including Single Flash, Double Flash, and Organic Rankine Cycle systems, aiming to improve efficiency without additional drilling. Findings show that integrating a binary ORC with existing flash systems can boost energy output by up to 20.1%, with only a modest rise in the Levelized Cost of Electricity . Compared to the current Olkaria IV setup, hybrid systems demonstrated lower carbon emissions and reduced material resource use.The results confirm that ORC integration offers the most sustainable pathway for developing high-temperature geothermal resources in the East African Rift. This approach balances energy efficiency, economic feasibility, and environmental impact, providing valuable guidance for future power plant development in regulatory-constrained settings.
Institutions: University of Florence, Strathmore University
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $2,750
Funder: Horizon 2020 Framework Programme
Award: G7030266289
OpenAlex ID: W4416377406