Kenya to Get 1,000 MW Data Center Powered By Geothermal Energy

Kenya Makes a Breakthrough in Clean Energy

Kenya is set to become the first country in Africa to power a massive data center with geothermal energy, a move that is expected to reduce its carbon footprint and reliance on diesel generators. The data center, which will be powered by 1,000 megawatts (MW) of geothermal energy, is expected to go live in the next three years.

Data Center to be Built at Olkaria Geothermal Power Plant

The data center will be built at the Olkaria Geothermal Power Plant in Naivasha, Rift Valley, where Kenya Power, the national electricity generating company, already operates a 280MW geothermal power plant. The plant is expected to be operational by 2025.

Benefits of Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is a clean and reliable source of power, emitting no greenhouse gases or pollutants during operation. The use of geothermal energy to power the data center will significantly reduce Kenya’s carbon footprint and reliance on diesel generators, which are major contributors to air pollution.

Data Center to Support Kenya’s Growing Digital Economy

The data center will support Kenya’s growing digital economy by providing a secure and reliable platform for storing and processing data. It will also enable the development of new digital services, such as cloud computing and artificial intelligence, which will drive economic growth and innovation.

Partnering with International Companies

Kenya Power is partnering with international companies, including Google, Microsoft, and Facebook, to build the data center. These companies will invest in the project and will also provide expertise and equipment to ensure its success.

Conclusion

Kenya’s decision to power a massive data center with geothermal energy is a major breakthrough in the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy. The project will not only reduce Kenya’s carbon footprint but will also support the country’s growing digital economy and provide a reliable platform for data storage and processing.

FAQs

Q: What is the capacity of the geothermal power plant?

A: The geothermal power plant at Olkaria will have a capacity of 1,000 MW.

Q: What is the expected completion date of the data center?

A: The data center is expected to be operational by 2025.

Q: Who is partnering with Kenya Power on the project?

A: Kenya Power is partnering with international companies, including Google, Microsoft, and Facebook, on the project.

Q: What are the benefits of using geothermal energy?

A: Geothermal energy is a clean and reliable source of power that emits no greenhouse gases or pollutants during operation. It also provides a stable supply of electricity, which is essential for data centers.

Q: What will be the impact of the project on Kenya’s digital economy?

A: The project will support Kenya’s growing digital economy by providing a secure and reliable platform for storing and processing data. It will also enable the development of new digital services, such as cloud computing and artificial intelligence.