Environmental Management at Okaria Geothermal Project-Kenya

Abstract

Geothermal energy is often advocated as one of a number of "green", "renewable" alternatives to fossil fuels for the supply of clean energy for the future. Geothermal energy utilization has its environmental impacts, particularly on air, water, land use and the aesthetic qualities of the landscape in regions with geothermal energy potential. A range of socioeconomic effects is also important especially on the neighboring communities. These environmental factors can be mitigated at different stages in the development of geothermal energy resources through prior environmental impact assessment (EIA) and implementation of an Environmental Management/Monitoring Plan and effective Environmental Management System (EMS) during the operation phase to ensure compliance with all national and international environmental standards. Other socio-economic benefits arising from geothermal energy utilization can effectively trickle to the local community by ensuring the effective implementation of the Company's corporate social responsibility programs.