Project review of geothermal spas' construction in Kenya and Iceland

Abstract

This study reviews the project management approach that was adopted during the construction of the Blue Lagoon, Mývatn Nature Baths and the Olkaria Geothermal Spa, as well as the brine flow system of the three spas. The level of application of a project management approach in a project is dictated by the uncertainties in the outcome of the project, current and emerging risks, threats and opportunities in the business environment, the scope of the project, the stakeholder environment, cost, objective of the project, quality and the phase of the project. Both the Blue Lagoon and Mývatn Nature Baths project outcomes were well known, based on previous knowledge of the popularity of bathing at the Blue Lagoon, and therefore a strict project management approach with no flexibility in schedule, time, resources and scope was adopted. Meanwhile, the Olkaria Geothermal Spa adopted a flexible project management approach that allowed for scope, design and improvement changes. For direct use projects that have no previous baseline data, phased development is recommended because of the uncertainties associated with the outcome of the project. It is also concluded that management of the brine flow system in a geothermal spa is important in ensuring a quality of service that meets customer expectations.