Prefeasibility Study on Direct Use of Geothermal Energy in Abattoirs and Processing of Livestock Products in Kenya

Abstract

A prefeasibility study on potential for direct use of geothermal energy in abattoirs and processing of livestock Products in Kenya was carried out in 2015 through collaboration between GDC and USAID. The study was done in five major livestock producing counties, and in which significant amounts of geothermal energy exist. The findings of the study indicate that, basic slaughter slabs are widely used with minimal value addition and that energy demand is a major cost item in all the major operations thus endorsing the potential for direct use of geothermal energy. This opportunity can be realized by co-locating abattoir plants and geothermal fields. A medium level abattoir with slaughter capacity for 200 head of cattle and 225 small stock per working day for a maximum 7.5 hours single working shift is sufficient. The facility would utilize electrical and thermal energy from geothermal resource. The energy demand is estimated at 70,000 KWh per day. The plant will engage in both slaughter and processing of a range of meat products to increase viability of the operation. The facility will require 550M3 water a day, including the hot water at about 85° C needed for sterilization , wash–down water for cleaning at 60°C and warm water for washing hands and showering at 42°C. A substantial operational cost saving, estimated to about USD 700,000 per year would be achieved when geothermal energy replaces conventional energy.