Integration of Environmental Assessment in Geothermal Resource Development Process

Abstract

Geothermal energy is considered clean in comparison with other sources of energy like coal and diesel due to minimal emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Despite this advantage, exploitation of geothermal resources has the potential of generating environmental and social impacts. This paper attempts to discuss the significant role of Environmental Assessment in informing decisions pertaining to sustainable development of geothermal resources at Olkaria Geothermal field. The paper focuses on how Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) have been applied from the time the first power plant was constructed in 1981 up to date. The author has highlighted lessons learnt and proposed appropriate recommendations to fill the gaps. The findings will go along way towards enhancing the quality of environmental assessment studies at Olkaria and other geothermal fields.