Ormat to raise Olkaria III plant capacity

In Neveda, the project subsidiary of Ormat Technologies signed a letter of intent with Kenya Power & Lighting Co. Ltd (KPLC) for further expansion of the Olkaria III power plant in Naivasha, Kenya by up to 52 MW within the framework of the existing power purchase agreement. Output from the plant would rise from 48 MW to as much as 100MW. The expansion is to be developed in two phases. with 36 MW added three and a half years from the final amendment of the existing PPA. There would be an option for a second phase of 16 MW four and a half years after the first phase is in operation. The PPS amendment is subject to applicable governmental approvals and the consent of the lenders. Olkaria III has been in operation since August of 2000.