KenGen spreads its geothermal expertise to Bhutan, Asia - standardmedia.co.ke

KenGen spreads its geothermal expertise to Bhutan, Asia - standardmedia.co.ke

Published March 19, 2026

KenGen Expands Geothermal Expertise to Bhutan and Beyond

Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) has announced a significant initiative aimed at sharing its geothermal energy expertise with Bhutan, marking a pivotal moment in the collaboration between the two nations. This move is part of KenGen's broader strategy to extend its influence and knowledge in geothermal energy across Asia.

KenGen has established itself as a leader in geothermal energy, generating a substantial portion of Kenya's electricity from this renewable source. The company's ambition to assist Bhutan aligns with its commitment to promoting sustainable energy solutions globally.

Collaboration Framework

In a recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between KenGen and Bhutan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, the two parties have laid the groundwork for a collaborative approach to explore and develop geothermal resources in Bhutan. This partnership is expected to facilitate knowledge transfer, technical support, and capacity building in geothermal energy development.

The MoU is a testament to KenGen's expertise in harnessing geothermal energy, as the company has been in operation since 1954 and has developed several geothermal power plants in the East African region. Currently, KenGen operates the Olkaria Geothermal Power Station, which is one of the largest geothermal power plants in Africa.

Bhutan’s Energy Landscape

Bhutan, a country known for its commitment to sustainability and renewable energy, has been exploring its geothermal potential as part of its energy diversification strategy. The nation relies heavily on hydropower for its electricity needs, but it recognizes the importance of diversifying its energy sources to ensure energy security and sustainability.

With an abundance of geothermal resources, Bhutan presents a promising opportunity for KenGen to apply its expertise. The collaboration aims to assess the geothermal potential in various regions of Bhutan, which could lead to the development of geothermal power plants in the future.

KenGen’s Geothermal Expertise

KenGen's geothermal portfolio includes a variety of projects that have successfully harnessed the earth's heat to produce electricity. The company has developed a wealth of knowledge in geothermal exploration, drilling, and power generation, which it is now poised to share with Bhutan.

The company's experience is not only limited to power generation but also encompasses environmental management, community engagement, and the socio-economic impacts of geothermal energy projects. This holistic approach is essential for the successful implementation of geothermal initiatives in Bhutan.

Potential Benefits for Bhutan

The collaboration with KenGen is expected to yield numerous benefits for Bhutan. Firstly, the development of geothermal energy can significantly enhance the country's energy security by providing a reliable and sustainable source of electricity. This is particularly important given the increasing demand for energy in Bhutan's growing economy.

Secondly, the establishment of geothermal power plants can create job opportunities and stimulate local economies. By investing in renewable energy infrastructure, Bhutan can foster economic growth while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns.

Moreover, geothermal energy is a clean source of power that can help Bhutan achieve its climate goals. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and harnessing its geothermal potential, Bhutan can further its commitment to maintaining a low-carbon footprint.

KenGen’s Regional Influence

This initiative in Bhutan is part of KenGen's broader strategy to expand its influence in the geothermal sector across Asia. The company has been actively involved in various international collaborations aimed at promoting geothermal energy as a viable and sustainable energy source.

KenGen's expertise has already attracted interest from several countries in the region looking to develop their geothermal resources. By sharing its knowledge and experience, KenGen is positioning itself as a key player in the renewable energy landscape in Asia.

Future Prospects

The partnership between KenGen and Bhutan represents a significant step towards realizing the potential of geothermal energy in the region. As both parties work together to explore and develop these resources, the future of geothermal energy in Bhutan looks promising.

KenGen's commitment to supporting Bhutan's energy development aligns with its mission to promote sustainable energy solutions globally. As the collaboration progresses, it is expected that both nations will benefit from the exchange of knowledge and expertise in geothermal energy.

In conclusion, the signing of the MoU between KenGen and Bhutan's Ministry of Economic Affairs marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of renewable energy development. With KenGen's extensive experience and Bhutan's geothermal potential, this partnership is poised to pave the way for a sustainable energy future in the region.

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Taiwan’s transition to renewable energy - Law.asia

Taiwan’s transition to renewable energy - Law.asia

Published March 19, 2026

Taiwan’s Transition to Renewable Energy

As Taiwan progresses towards its renewable energy goals, the government is actively implementing policies and initiatives aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting sustainable energy sources. The island nation has set ambitious targets to transition its energy portfolio, with a strong focus on solar and wind energy, which are considered pivotal in achieving a greener future.

In 2016, Taiwan's government announced its commitment to phase out nuclear energy by 2025, a decision that has prompted a significant shift in the energy landscape. The plan is to replace nuclear power with renewable energy sources, aiming for renewables to account for 20% of the total energy mix by the same year. This transition is part of a broader strategy to combat climate change, enhance energy security, and foster economic growth through the development of the green technology sector.

According to the latest statistics from the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), Taiwan's renewable energy capacity has seen substantial growth in recent years. As of the end of 2022, the total installed capacity of renewable energy reached approximately 12.5 gigawatts (GW), a significant increase from just 4.5 GW in 2016. This growth is primarily driven by the rapid expansion of solar and wind power installations across the island.

Solar Energy Development

Solar energy has emerged as a key player in Taiwan's renewable energy strategy. The government has implemented various incentives to encourage the installation of solar panels, including feed-in tariffs and subsidies for residential and commercial solar projects. By the end of 2022, solar power capacity was reported at around 7.5 GW, making it the largest contributor to the nation’s renewable energy mix.

In addition to government support, Taiwan's vibrant solar manufacturing sector has played a crucial role in the growth of solar energy. The country is one of the leading manufacturers of solar cells and modules globally, with several major companies actively investing in research and development to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. This domestic production capability not only supports local energy goals but also positions Taiwan as a competitive player in the global solar market.

Wind Energy Expansion

Wind energy is another vital component of Taiwan's renewable energy strategy. The government has identified offshore wind as a crucial area for development, with plans to install 5.5 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2025. As of the end of 2022, the installed capacity for offshore wind energy stood at approximately 2.5 GW, with several projects under construction and more in the planning stages.

The development of offshore wind farms has attracted significant foreign investment and collaboration, with international companies partnering with local firms to leverage Taiwan's favorable wind conditions and technological expertise. The government is also working to streamline permitting processes and improve infrastructure to support the growth of this sector.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the progress made in renewable energy development, Taiwan faces several challenges in its transition. One of the primary concerns is the intermittency of renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind. To address this issue, the government is investing in energy storage technologies and grid modernization to ensure a reliable and stable energy supply.

Additionally, public acceptance and support for renewable energy projects remain crucial for their success. Local opposition to certain projects, particularly wind farms, has highlighted the need for effective communication and engagement with communities to address concerns and build support for renewable initiatives.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Taiwan's renewable energy transition is poised for further growth, with the government reaffirming its commitment to achieving its ambitious targets. The ongoing development of solar and wind energy, coupled with advancements in energy storage and grid management, will play a critical role in ensuring the success of this transition.

As the world increasingly shifts towards sustainable energy sources, Taiwan's efforts to establish itself as a leader in renewable energy not only contribute to global climate goals but also create opportunities for economic development and job creation in the green technology sector. The successful implementation of these initiatives will be vital for Taiwan's energy future and its role in the regional and global renewable energy landscape.

Conclusion

Taiwan's transition to renewable energy represents a significant step toward a more sustainable future. With a clear commitment from the government, robust growth in solar and wind energy, and ongoing efforts to address challenges, Taiwan is on the path to achieving its renewable energy targets. The collaboration between government, industry, and communities will be essential in realizing the full potential of the island's renewable energy resources, paving the way for a cleaner and greener energy future.

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China needs to expand both pumped hydro and battery storage - Eco-Business

China needs to expand both pumped hydro and battery storage - Eco-Business

Published March 19, 2026

China's Need for Enhanced Pumped Hydro and Battery Storage

As China continues to advance its renewable energy initiatives, the necessity for both pumped hydro storage and battery storage systems has become increasingly apparent. The country is undergoing a significant transformation in its energy landscape, with a focus on integrating renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind power, into the grid. However, the intermittent nature of these energy sources presents challenges that necessitate the expansion of energy storage capabilities.

Pumped hydro storage has long been recognized as a reliable method for energy storage, accounting for a substantial portion of global energy storage capacity. In China, pumped hydro storage plays a critical role in balancing supply and demand, particularly during peak consumption periods. Currently, China leads the world in installed pumped hydro capacity, with over 30 gigawatts (GW) of operational facilities. The nation has ambitious plans to increase this capacity to 62 GW by 2025, as stated in the 14th Five-Year Plan for Renewable Energy Development.

Despite its advantages, pumped hydro storage has limitations, particularly regarding geographical constraints and environmental considerations. The construction of new pumped hydro facilities often requires specific topographical features, such as mountains or large water bodies, which may not be available in all regions. Additionally, the environmental impact of constructing new reservoirs can be significant, leading to potential ecological disruptions.

In light of these challenges, battery storage has emerged as a complementary solution to pumped hydro systems. Battery technology has advanced rapidly in recent years, with lithium-ion batteries becoming the dominant technology due to their efficiency, scalability, and declining costs. The Chinese battery market is the largest in the world, driven by the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy integration.

According to a report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), China's battery storage capacity is expected to grow significantly, reaching approximately 30 GW by 2025. This growth will be fueled by government policies aimed at promoting clean energy technologies and reducing carbon emissions. The Chinese government has set a target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, which necessitates a substantial increase in energy storage capacity to support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Integrating both pumped hydro and battery storage systems can provide a more robust and flexible energy storage solution. Pumped hydro can offer long-duration storage capabilities, while battery systems excel in providing short-duration storage, making them ideal for managing fluctuations in energy supply and demand. By utilizing both technologies, China can enhance grid stability and reliability, ensuring a smoother transition to a renewable energy future.

Moreover, the combination of pumped hydro and battery storage can help mitigate the challenges associated with renewable energy generation, such as curtailment and grid congestion. During periods of high renewable energy production, excess electricity can be stored in pumped hydro facilities or batteries, which can then be discharged during periods of low production or high demand. This approach not only enhances energy security but also maximizes the utilization of renewable energy resources.

China's commitment to expanding its energy storage capacity is evident in its investment strategies and policy frameworks. The government has introduced various incentives and funding programs to support the development of energy storage technologies. Additionally, the establishment of research and development initiatives aims to drive innovation in energy storage solutions, further enhancing the country's capabilities in this sector.

As part of its broader energy strategy, China is also focusing on developing a diversified energy storage portfolio. This includes exploring other storage technologies, such as flow batteries, compressed air energy storage, and thermal energy storage. By diversifying its energy storage options, China can better address the unique challenges posed by different renewable energy sources and regional energy demands.

Furthermore, the integration of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and smart grid solutions, can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of energy storage systems. These technologies can optimize the operation of both pumped hydro and battery storage facilities, improving their responsiveness to changes in energy supply and demand.

In conclusion, the expansion of both pumped hydro and battery storage is essential for China's transition to a sustainable energy future. By investing in and developing these energy storage solutions, China can enhance its grid stability, maximize renewable energy utilization, and achieve its carbon neutrality goals. As the country continues to lead the global renewable energy movement, the integration of diverse energy storage technologies will play a pivotal role in shaping its energy landscape for years to come.

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