Fortescue Future Industries (FFI), an Australian firm plans to develop a 300MW capacity green ammonia and fertilizer facility using the Olkaria Geothermal resources in Naivasha, Nakuru County. The aim of using Geothermal is to achieve low-carbon energy self-sufficiency.
A team from the firm was hosted by Nakuru County Secretary, Dr Samuel to discuss cooperation and collaboration for the construction of the multibillion-dollar plant.
The FFI team, led by Edward Kalajzic, the company’s Africa President, sought the county’s support for the project. The team highlighted the benefits expected from the plant including job opportunities for over 1,000 people, support for local manufacturing and businesses, and the promotion of county investment. It is also intended to help Kenya create the energy security needed to step beyond fossil fuel, and importantly a reliance on imported fertilizer.
Dr. Mwaura assured the FFI team of Governor Susan Kihika’s support and commitment to the investment. He called for the formation of a joint team with FFI to create a work plan that will facilitate the smooth setup of the facility, which is expected to be operational by 2026.
In June this year, FFI signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Strathmore University during the Africa Energy Forum in Nairobi, with the intention to set Kenya up with the skills and education needed to become a world leader in green energy and green hydrogen production.
FFI and Strathmore intend to work together to create programs to nurture talent, promote research and empower individuals and institutions to support the transition away from fossil fuels in Africa and actively contribute to the region’s sustainable development.
According to FFI, “Kenya has everything it needs to become a serious player in the green hydrogen space. It has unique natural resources and space that make it ideal to invest in, but it’s also important to invest in the future workforce needed to support development and industry. This collaboration ensures the people of Kenya will lead the research and training needed to be at the centre of their own journey to decarbonization.”
