Geothermal potential areas
Rwanda’s geothermal potential is estimated at up to 100 MW. Two key zones have been identified for geothermal energy exploration: the first is in the northwestern region, associated with volcanic activity in the Virunga Mountains, and the second is in the southwestern region, linked to fault systems in the western branch of the East African Rift. The main geothermal areas include Gisenyi, Karisimbi, and Kinigi in the northwestern region, along with Bugarama in the southwestern region.
Geothermal reconnaissance studies in Rwanda began in the 1980’s to identify promising sites for energy development. Serious investigations commenced in 2006 to diversify the country’s electricity generation sources, leading to the drilling of two deep exploration wells in the Karisimbi area. Unfortunately, these efforts did not reveal evidence of a viable geothermal system in that region. Currently, efforts are focused on the Gisenyi and Bugarama prospects, which are in advanced stages of surface exploration and market surveys for direct applications. These studies will help determine the next steps for future subsurface exploration.
Gisenyi hot spring
Bugarama hot spring