Factors Influencing Utilization Of Direct Geothermal Energy In Kenya. A Case Of Menengai Geothermal Project In Nakuru County.

The document titled "Factors Influencing Utilization Of Direct Geothermal Energy In Kenya: A Case of Menengai Geothermal Project in Nakuru County" is a 2016 Master's research project by Sharon Rhodah Kaitano, submitted to the University of Nairobi in partial fulfillment of a Master of Arts in Project Planning and Management. Summary Description: This academic study investigates the underutilization of direct geothermal energy in Kenya, using the Menengai Geothermal Project in Nakuru County as a case study. While geothermal energy is predominantly used for electricity generation in Kenya, this research emphasizes the non-electric (direct) uses—such as heating, drying, aquaculture, and greenhouse operations—which are more environmentally friendly and socially inclusive but remain underexploited. Key Objectives: To assess how community support influences direct geothermal energy utilization. To evaluate the impact of government policy on adoption and scaling. To examine the role of technology in facilitating or hindering usage. To determine how public awareness affects adoption and sustainability. Methodology: Design: Descriptive survey. Population: 2,545 households around the Menengai geothermal project and 9 staff from the Geothermal Development Company (GDC). Sampling: Stratified, purposive, and proportionate random sampling. Tools: Structured questionnaires, statistical analysis using SPSS. Core Findings: There are significant positive correlations between direct geothermal energy use and: Government policy (r = 0.999) Public awareness (r = 0.995) Surprisingly, community support had a weak negative correlation (r = -0.219), indicating possible disconnection or mistrust. Technology access showed a moderate negative relationship (r = -0.413), suggesting barriers like complexity or cost. Theoretical Framework: Grounded in PROUT (Progressive Utilization Theory), emphasizing balanced, localized, and sustainable exploitation of natural resources for social benefit—not just economic returns. Notable Contributions: Offers a conceptual framework linking technology, policy, awareness, and community support to utilization outcomes. Includes international case comparisons (e.g., Hungary, Tunisia) and technological overviews (e.g., heat exchangers, aquaculture systems). Recommends policy reform, community engagement, and tech adaptation for sustainable geothermal energy uptake in Kenya. Implications: The study provides a critical policy and planning lens on Kenya’s geothermal sector, particularly for stakeholders interested in: Decentralized energy solutions Climate-smart agricultural applications Community-based energy governance Resilience-building in semi-arid regions