Olkaria, Geothermal volcanic mountain in Nakuru County, Kenya.
Olkaria is a volcanic highland in Nakuru County featuring multiple volcanic cones and ancient lava flows that create a rough, dark landscape. Steam and hot springs emerge from the ground, revealing the active geothermal energy beneath the surface.
Geothermal exploration at Olkaria started in the 1950s, eventually leading to the development of power generation facilities. This discovery transformed the area into a major energy resource for Kenya.
Local Maasai communities view this volcanic landscape as integral to their relationship with the land and its resources. The geothermal activity has become part of how people in the region understand and interact with their environment.
The area is accessible by road from Nakuru and the surrounding region, though road conditions can vary with the seasons. It is advisable to hire a local guide familiar with the active geothermal zones for a safer and more informative visit.
The area houses multiple power stations that harness underground heat to generate electricity and supply energy to Kenya's national grid. This setup demonstrates how natural resources are used on a large scale for renewable energy production.
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