The Resource Development & Infrastructure (RD&I) is one of the departments under the Geothermal Development Department (GDD). The department is endowed with highly skilled and dedicated staff (Scientists and Engineers) who have extensively undergone training (both locally and internationally) on the respective fields of specialization. Presently, there are six sections under RD & I department namely; Geology, Geophysics, Geochemistry, Environment, Quality and Liason, Infrastructure and Center of Excellence. The latter comprise of four sub-sections; Geomatics, Research and Consultancy, Information Services Unit and Geothermal Training Centre (GTC). The RD & I department is mandated to promote rapid development of geothermal resources in sync with the Company’s geothermal expansion programme. In addition, the department is tasked with promoting alternative uses of geothermal resources aside from electricity generation. Below is a snapshot of the roles performed by the various sections under RD&I department;
The Geochemistry Section is a key technical unit within KenGen’s Geothermal Resource Assessment Division, providing geochemical support across the entire geothermal development lifecycle — from exploration to long-term production and reservoir management. Through systematic sampling and analysis of geothermal fluids such as steam, brine, and condensate, the section monitors reservoir performance and interprets subsurface processes using advanced geochemical modelling techniques. These insights inform drilling strategies, reinjection planning, and sustainable resource management.
The section also manages scaling and corrosion risks across wells and power plant facilities, provides laboratory analytical services using modern instrumentation, and supports operations through timely troubleshooting and advisory services. In addition to driving research and innovation, the team offers consultancy, exploration support, and training services across Kenya and the region, positioning the Geochemistry Section as a central pillar in safe, efficient, and sustainable geothermal development.
The Geology Section is a core technical unit within KenGen’s Geothermal Resource Assessment Division, providing specialized geological expertise to support the exploration, development, and sustainable management of geothermal resources. Through detailed geological and structural mapping, lithological characterization, alteration studies, and stratigraphic analysis, the section develops high-resolution models that guide prospect evaluation, well siting, and field development planning. It also delivers comprehensive geological well logging services, integrating lithology, alteration minerals, fracture analysis, and downhole data to support real-time drilling decisions and improve well performance.
The section operates advanced laboratory services, including petrographic analysis and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), to characterize geothermal rocks and clay minerals and interpret subsurface temperature conditions and reservoir evolution. Additional capabilities such as fluid inclusion studies, hydrogeological assessments, and geotechnical investigations further strengthen exploration accuracy and infrastructure planning. Through innovation, consultancy services, and training programs at the Geothermal Training Centre, the Geology Section enhances technical excellence, reduces development risk, and supports sustainable geothermal energy development both locally and regionally.
The Geophysics Section is a key technical unit within KenGen’s Geothermal Resource Assessment Division, providing integrated geophysical and geotechnical services that support geothermal exploration, drilling, and infrastructure development. Through advanced subsurface imaging techniques — including Magnetotelluric (MT), Transient Electromagnetic (TEM), Direct Current (DC) resistivity, gravity, magnetic, and seismic surveys — the section generates detailed 2D and 3D models that define reservoir structures, fault systems, heat sources, and fluid pathways. These models play a critical role in well targeting, drilling risk reduction, field development planning, and refinement of geothermal conceptual models.
Beyond exploration, the section supports sustainable field operations through reservoir monitoring and surveillance, including micro-seismic monitoring, gravity surveys, and ground deformation assessments to track reservoir performance and ensure operational safety. It also provides geotechnical investigations for site characterization and infrastructure design, supporting the construction of well pads, pipelines, and power plant facilities. Through continuous innovation, training, and capacity building at the Geothermal Training Centre, the Geophysics Section strengthens KenGen’s technical leadership and contributes to regional geothermal development expertise.
The Geophysics Section undertakes geophysical investigations for geothermal resources that include various surface based exploration surveys for prospects delineation, reservoir assessments, and field management. The Company has modern geophysical equipment, which include a Transient Electromagnetic (TEM) instrument that has a high resolution for investigating conductivity structure of the top 1000M of subsurface, and a Magneto-Telluric (MT) equipment that is capable of collecting high resolution resistivity data up to 10,000M deep.
The Environmental, Safety & Liaison Section carries out environmental impact assessments, environmental audits, environmental education and monitoring of environmental impacts arising from geothermal development. The Section is also responsible for liaison with the local community on all aspects of mutual benefit.
The Section manages a tree nursery that raises various tree species for rehabilitation of disturbed areas like well pads and construction sites. Seedlings are also donated to neighbouring communities as part of social re-afforestation programme.
Monitoring of soils, air quality, water and vegetation is done. At Olkaria, all the liquid effluents are re-injected at depth to avoid mixing with the shallow water acquifers. Concentration of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) found in geothermal fluids is regularly monitored. However, the normal concentration level of H2S is below WHO exposure limits and, therefore, the rotten–egg smell due to the gas at Olkaria is more of a nuisance than a danger.
The Geothermal Infrastructure Section is responsible for the preparation of well pads, access roads, rehabilitation of disturbed sites and water supply works.
KenGen maintains the heavy duty equipment comprising trucks, air compressors, bulldozers, wheel loaders, prime movers, haulage trucks, high lift pumps, hydraulic systems for cranes and other heavy duty lifting equipment.
Geomatics Subsection provides survey, cartography and GIS services to the Company, and other organizations. The section has state of the art equipment such as total station, Geodetic GPS Surveying system and modern ammonia printing machine. Data processing is computerized.
The Information Science Subsection is responsible for information management within the project.
Provides custody for all geothermal knowledge resources and literature through their library and archives. The sub-section also controls usage and dispensation of the knowledge resources and also provides relevant update information and news to the division e.g. energy news, internal weekly news via trails of ongoing project activities and update and acquisition of journals.
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