Five specialized programmes have already been successfully delivered at the KenGen Geothermal Training Centre (GTC), marking a strong start for the newly completed facility and affirming its readiness to host high-level technical training.
The courses include Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) in Geothermal Operations, Geothermal Steamfield Management, Drilling Technology, Geochemistry of Geothermal Systems, and Hydraulic Maintenance, have collectively attracted 82 participants drawn from across KenGen’s operations.
The Centre is honoured to host short-course training programmes organized under the Africa Power Utilities Association (APUA), further strengthening its role as a regional hub for capacity building in the power and energy sector. These programmes reflect a deliberate effort to enhance technical competencies while fostering knowledge exchange within the industry.
Developed under the East African Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP) with support from the World Bank, the new GTC facility is a major investment in technical and vocational education and training for the energy sector. The modern complex, equipped with advanced training rooms, conference facilities, and accommodation amenities, provides an ideal environment for immersive learning and professional development.
Each of the five programmes delivered so far addresses a critical component of geothermal operations. The Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) in Geothermal Operations course focuses on strengthening safety culture, equipping participants with skills in hazard identification, risk assessment, incident prevention, and environmental management to ensure safe and sustainable operations.
The Geothermal Steamfield Management course builds competencies in the efficient management of steam resources, covering key areas such as reservoir monitoring, steamfield optimization, reinjection strategies, and asset integrity. This training is essential for maintaining plant reliability and ensuring long-term sustainability of geothermal resources.
The Drilling Technology course provides participants with practical knowledge on well design, drilling processes, equipment utilization, and operational safety. It enhances understanding of the critical role drilling plays in geothermal resource development and production.
The Geochemistry of Geothermal Systems programme introduces participants to the chemical characteristics of geothermal fluids, enabling them to interpret geochemical data for reservoir assessment, monitoring, and management. This knowledge is vital in optimizing production and mitigating challenges such as scaling and corrosion.
The Hydraulic Maintenance course focuses on the maintenance and reliability of hydraulic systems used in geothermal operations. Participants gain hands-on skills in system diagnostics, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance, contributing to improved equipment performance and reduced downtime.
Participants in these programmes are trained by experienced KenGen trainers,technical staff with extensive hands-on expertise in geothermal operations ensuring that the learning experience is both practical and industry relevant. The successful delivery of these five courses highlights the Centre’s growing capacity to offer diverse, high-quality training programmes tailored to the needs of the energy sector.
The strong uptake of the programmes and the seamless execution of training activities demonstrate that the new GTC facility is not only fully operational but also strategically positioned to support Kenya’s leadership in geothermal energy development. As the Centre continues to expand its training portfolio, it is set to play an even greater role in advancing technical excellence, safety standards, and sustainable energy solutions across the region.
By Anne Sunkuyia, Senior Information Scientist at KenGen Geothermal Training Centre.
