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

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

Published March 23, 2026

KenGen Expands Geothermal Expertise to Bhutan

Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) is extending its geothermal development expertise to Bhutan, marking a significant step in enhancing renewable energy initiatives in the region. This collaboration aims to bolster Bhutan's energy sector, leveraging KenGen's extensive experience in geothermal energy production, which is essential for sustainable development in the Himalayan nation.

KenGen, one of Africa's leading power producers, has been actively involved in the geothermal energy sector for decades. The company operates several geothermal power plants in Kenya, contributing significantly to the country's electricity generation. With a capacity of 1,000 megawatts (MW) from geothermal sources, KenGen is recognized as a pioneer in this field, and its expertise is now being sought after by other nations, including Bhutan.

Geothermal Potential in Bhutan

Bhutan, known for its commitment to renewable energy, has a vast potential for geothermal energy development. The country has been exploring various avenues to harness its natural resources to meet its growing energy demands while minimizing environmental impact. The collaboration with KenGen is expected to provide Bhutan with the necessary technical expertise and knowledge to tap into its geothermal resources effectively.

According to recent studies, Bhutan's geothermal potential is estimated to be around 2,500 MW, which, if fully harnessed, could significantly contribute to the country's energy needs. The partnership with KenGen will involve sharing best practices in geothermal exploration, drilling, and power generation, ultimately helping Bhutan to develop its geothermal projects more efficiently.

KenGen's Role in the Partnership

As part of the partnership, KenGen will provide technical assistance and training to Bhutanese engineers and technicians. This capacity-building initiative is crucial for ensuring that local professionals are equipped with the skills necessary to manage and operate geothermal facilities. KenGen's experience in successfully managing geothermal projects will be invaluable in guiding Bhutan through the various stages of development.

KenGen's Chief Executive Officer, Rebecca Miano, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating that sharing knowledge and expertise is essential for the growth of renewable energy sectors in developing countries. By working together, both nations can achieve their energy goals while promoting sustainable practices.

Benefits of Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy offers numerous benefits, making it an attractive option for countries like Bhutan. Firstly, it is a renewable energy source that produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels. This aligns with Bhutan's commitment to environmental conservation and its goal of remaining a carbon-negative country.

Furthermore, geothermal energy provides a stable and reliable source of power, as it is not dependent on weather conditions unlike solar and wind energy. This reliability is crucial for Bhutan, which aims to ensure energy security and support economic growth through consistent electricity supply.

Additionally, the development of geothermal projects can create job opportunities for local communities, contributing to economic development. The collaboration with KenGen is expected to stimulate local economies by fostering skills development and creating employment in the energy sector.

Future Prospects

The partnership between KenGen and Bhutan represents a significant opportunity for both parties to advance their renewable energy agendas. By leveraging KenGen's expertise, Bhutan can accelerate the development of its geothermal resources, which will play a vital role in meeting its energy demands and achieving its sustainability goals.

As the world increasingly shifts towards renewable energy sources, collaborations like this one are essential for sharing knowledge and resources. KenGen's involvement in Bhutan's geothermal sector could serve as a model for other countries looking to develop their renewable energy capabilities.

In conclusion, the collaboration between KenGen and Bhutan marks a promising step towards enhancing geothermal energy development in the region. By sharing technical expertise and building local capacity, both nations can work together to harness the potential of geothermal energy, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

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Asia’s industrial revolution is switching off gas - The Economic Times

Asia’s industrial revolution is switching off gas - The Economic Times

Published March 23, 2026

Asia’s Industrial Revolution is Transitioning Away from Gas

As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, Asia's industrial sector is undergoing a significant transformation, moving away from natural gas as a primary energy source. This shift is driven by a combination of factors, including the need to reduce carbon emissions, rising energy costs, and technological advancements in renewable energy sources.

In recent years, several Asian countries have begun to re-evaluate their energy strategies, particularly in the industrial sector, which has traditionally relied heavily on fossil fuels, including natural gas. The urgency to address climate change has prompted governments and businesses alike to seek cleaner, more sustainable energy alternatives.

Government Policies and Initiatives

Governments across Asia are implementing a range of policies aimed at reducing dependence on natural gas. For instance, many countries are setting ambitious targets for carbon neutrality and increasing investments in renewable energy technologies. China, the largest emitter of carbon dioxide globally, has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 and is significantly increasing its investment in solar and wind energy.

India is also making strides in this area, with its government announcing plans to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. The country is focusing on expanding its renewable energy capacity, particularly in solar power, which is expected to play a crucial role in reducing reliance on natural gas.

Technological Advancements in Renewable Energy

Technological innovation is a key driver in the transition away from natural gas. The rapid development of renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, has made them more viable alternatives to fossil fuels. The cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems has dropped significantly, making solar energy more accessible to industries that previously relied on gas.

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the cost of solar energy has decreased by 82% since 2010, while the cost of onshore wind energy has fallen by 49%. These reductions in cost make renewable energy sources not only environmentally friendly but also economically attractive for industrial applications.

Impact on Industrial Operations

The shift away from natural gas is already having a profound impact on industrial operations across Asia. Many companies are investing in energy efficiency measures and transitioning to renewable energy sources to power their operations. For example, major corporations in sectors such as manufacturing, textiles, and food processing are increasingly turning to solar and wind energy to meet their energy needs.

In Japan, several manufacturing companies have committed to using 100% renewable energy in their operations. This commitment not only helps reduce their carbon footprint but also enhances their competitiveness in a market that is increasingly favoring sustainable practices.

Challenges in the Transition

Despite the positive momentum towards reducing reliance on natural gas, several challenges remain. One significant hurdle is the existing infrastructure that is heavily reliant on fossil fuels. Transitioning to renewable energy will require substantial investments in new infrastructure, including energy storage systems and grid upgrades to accommodate the variable nature of renewable energy sources.

Additionally, the availability of land for renewable energy projects can pose challenges, particularly in densely populated areas. This issue is further compounded by the need for regulatory frameworks that support the integration of renewable energy into existing energy systems.

Future Outlook

The future of Asia's industrial sector appears to be increasingly aligned with renewable energy. As countries continue to implement policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and investing in clean technologies, the reliance on natural gas is expected to decline further.

Market analysts predict that the demand for natural gas in Asia will peak in the coming years as more industries transition to renewable energy sources. This shift is likely to reshape energy markets, with renewable energy becoming a dominant force in the region.

In conclusion, Asia's industrial revolution is actively moving away from natural gas, driven by government policies, technological advancements, and the urgent need to combat climate change. While challenges remain, the commitment to renewable energy is expected to shape the future of the region's industrial landscape, paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future.

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Honouring Excellence: Nominations Open for Influential Women in Clean Energy - Energetica India Magazine

Honouring Excellence: Nominations Open for Influential Women in Clean Energy - Energetica India Magazine

Published March 23, 2026

Honouring Excellence: Nominations Open for Influential Women in Clean Energy

The clean energy sector continues to evolve, driven by innovation, commitment, and the contributions of numerous talented individuals. In recognition of the pivotal role women play in this industry, nominations are now being accepted for the prestigious Influential Women in Clean Energy Awards. This initiative aims to celebrate and acknowledge the outstanding achievements of women who have made significant impacts within the clean energy landscape.

As the demand for sustainable energy solutions grows, the contributions of women in leadership, engineering, research, and policy-making become increasingly vital. The Influential Women in Clean Energy Awards serve as a platform to highlight these contributions and inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in renewable energy.

About the Awards

The Influential Women in Clean Energy Awards are designed to recognize women who have demonstrated excellence in their respective fields within the clean energy sector. These awards aim to honor those who have made remarkable contributions in areas such as technology development, policy advocacy, project management, and community engagement.

The awards are open to women from various backgrounds and experiences, including those working in corporate environments, non-profit organizations, academia, and government agencies. The selection process will consider the nominees' achievements, leadership qualities, and their overall impact on the clean energy sector.

Nomination Process

Nominations for the Influential Women in Clean Energy Awards can be submitted online. Interested individuals are encouraged to nominate a woman who has made significant contributions to the clean energy field. Nominators should provide detailed information about the nominee’s professional background, accomplishments, and the specific contributions that warrant recognition.

The nomination period is open until [insert deadline date]. All nominations will be reviewed by a panel of judges comprised of industry experts, leaders, and previous award recipients. The winners will be announced at a special ceremony that will take place during the upcoming Clean Energy Conference.

Categories of Awards

The awards will be presented in several categories to ensure a comprehensive recognition of women's contributions across various sectors of the clean energy industry. The categories include:

  • Leadership Award: Recognizing women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing clean energy initiatives.
  • Innovation Award: Honoring women who have made significant technological advancements or innovations in clean energy.
  • Advocacy Award: Acknowledging women who have been influential advocates for clean energy policies and practices.
  • Community Impact Award: Celebrating women who have made a positive impact in their communities through clean energy projects or initiatives.
  • Lifetime Achievement Award: Recognizing the long-term contributions and achievements of women who have dedicated their careers to the clean energy sector.

Importance of Recognizing Women in Clean Energy

The clean energy sector has historically been male-dominated, making it crucial to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women in this field. By highlighting the accomplishments of women, the Influential Women in Clean Energy Awards aim to encourage more women to pursue careers in renewable energy and to inspire organizations to promote gender diversity within their teams.

Research has shown that diverse teams are more innovative and effective. By fostering an inclusive environment, the clean energy sector can benefit from a wider range of perspectives and ideas, ultimately leading to more effective solutions for the challenges facing the industry.

Previous Award Recipients

Past recipients of the Influential Women in Clean Energy Awards have included trailblazers who have made significant strides in their respective fields. These women have not only advanced their own careers but have also paved the way for others to follow. Their stories serve as powerful examples of what can be achieved with dedication and passion for clean energy.

For instance, [insert name of previous recipient] received the Leadership Award for her work in [describe contribution], which has had a lasting impact on [describe impact]. Similarly, [insert name of another recipient] was recognized with the Innovation Award for her groundbreaking research in [describe area of research], which has led to [describe outcome].

How to Get Involved

Individuals and organizations interested in supporting the Influential Women in Clean Energy Awards can participate in various ways. In addition to submitting nominations, supporters can help spread the word about the awards within their networks. Engaging with the clean energy community on social media and sharing information about the awards can help raise awareness and encourage more nominations.

Moreover, organizations can consider sponsoring the awards ceremony or partnering with the initiative to promote gender diversity in clean energy. By working together, stakeholders can create a more inclusive environment that recognizes and values the contributions of women in the clean energy sector.

Conclusion

The Influential Women in Clean Energy Awards represent an important step toward acknowledging the vital role women play in the transition to a sustainable energy future. By celebrating their achievements, the awards not only honor individual contributions but also inspire a new generation of women to pursue careers in clean energy.

As the clean energy sector continues to grow and evolve, recognizing the efforts of women within this field is essential. The nomination process is now open, and all are encouraged to participate by nominating deserving candidates. Together, we can honor excellence and promote a more diverse and inclusive clean energy landscape.

For more information about the awards, nomination guidelines, and to submit a nomination, please visit [insert website link].

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