Best borehole drilling company

Key Takeaways

• The cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya depends on the drilling method, location, and depth.
• A hydro-geological survey is essential to determine water availability, depth, and rock structure.
• Permits from WARMA, NEMA, and the county government are mandatory before drilling begins.
• Borehole drilling methods include air drilling (KES 6,700 per meter) and mud drilling (KES 13,050 per meter).
• Additional costs include casing, graveling, test pumping, and water chemical analysis.
• Submersible solar or electric pumps are recommended for efficient water evacuation.
• Water Equation & Solar System Ltd. offers free agronomy support and crop irrigation system design for borehole clients.

As the best borehole drilling company in Kenya, Water Equation & Solar System Ltd. not only specializes in drilling high-quality boreholes but also provides comprehensive guidance to farmers and landowners on the entire process of procuring borehole drilling services. From conducting hydro-geological surveys to installing submersible solar or electric borehole pumps, we ensure a seamless experience for our clients. In this guide, we break down the average cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya, the requirements, and what to expect during the process.

Requirements for Drilling a Borehole in Kenya

Before drilling a borehole, several steps must be followed to ensure compliance with regulations and to determine the feasibility of the project.

1. Hydro-Geological Survey

A hydro-geological survey is the first and most critical step in the borehole drilling process. It helps determine:

• The exact location for drilling.
• The depth of the water table.
• The rock structure and water yield potential.
• The approximate amount of water available.

Methods Used:

• Resistivity Method: Measures the electrical resistance of the soil to identify water-bearing zones.
• Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES): Determines the depth and thickness of aquifers.
• Horizontal Electrical Profiling (HEP): Maps lateral variations in subsurface conditions.

Cost: The average cost of a hydro-geological survey in Kenya is KES 115,000, which includes permits and licenses.

Documents Required:

• Land title deed or sale agreement.
• National ID (for individuals) or company registration certificate (for corporates).
• Personal Identification Number (PIN) certificate.

2. Licenses and Permits

Before drilling, clients must obtain the following permits:

• Water Resource Management Authority (WARMA): Regulates water use and ensures sustainable water management.
• National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA): Ensures environmental compliance.
• County Government Permit: Required in some counties for approval.

3. Site Visit

A physical site visit is conducted to assess logistics, accessibility, and preparation requirements. This step ensures that the drilling rig and equipment can be transported to the site without issues.

4. Payment

After the survey and site visit, a detailed quote is provided. A 75% down payment is required before drilling commences.

Borehole Drilling Methods and Costs in Kenya

The cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya varies depending on the drilling method, which is determined by the rock structure and soil conditions.

1. Air Drilling

• Best For: Stable ground with proper rock formation.
• Cost: KES 6,700 per meter.

2. Mud Drilling

• Best For: Loose ground with minimal or no rock.
• Cost: KES 13,050 per meter.

Cost Breakdown:

Note: Mobilization costs vary depending on the distance from our office to the drilling site.

What to Look Out for When Drilling a Borehole

1. Proximity to Other Boreholes: Ensure adequate spacing to avoid over-extraction from the same aquifer.
2. Availability of Electric Power: Determines the type of pump (solar or electric) to be installed.
3. Slope of the Land: Affects water flow and pump installation.

Borehole Drilling Process

1. Mobilization

This involves transporting the drilling rig, equipment, and labor to the site. Costs depend on the distance and include bush clearing and site preparation.

2. Drilling

The actual process of sinking the well. The depth is determined by the hydro-geological survey report. The standard borehole diameter is 8 inches, with a surface section of 10 inches.

3. Casing

The borehole walls are lined with mild steel or uPVC casings to prevent collapse. Steel casings are used in areas with boulders, while uPVC is preferred for saline water conditions.

• Continuous Casings: Used in non-aquifer sections for water storage.
• Slotted Casings: Installed in aquifer sections to allow water inflow.

4. Graveling

Gravel is applied between the borehole walls and casings to filter impurities and stabilize the structure. The gravel size used is 2mm to 4mm.

5. Flushing and Capping

The well is cleaned of debris through flushing, and the top is sealed with a cap to prevent contamination.

6. Test Pumping

Water is pumped out for 24 hours to determine the yield, recharge rate, and water level. This helps in selecting the appropriate pump.

7. Water Chemical Analysis

A laboratory analysis is conducted to determine the chemical composition of the water.

Borehole Water Pump Cost in Kenya

After drilling, a submersible pump (solar or electric) is installed to evacuate water to a storage unit. The cost depends on the pump type and capacity.

FAQs About Borehole Drilling in Kenya

1. How much does it cost to drill a borehole in Kenya?
   • Costs vary based on depth, location, and drilling method. On average, air drilling costs KES 6,700 per meter, while mud drilling costs KES 13,050 per meter.
2. How deep should a borehole be?
   • The depth depends on the hydro-geological survey. A good borehole reaches productive aquifers with quality water.
3. How long does it take to drill a borehole?
   • The duration depends on the depth and rock formation.
4. Do I need permission to drill a borehole?
   • Yes. Permits from WARMA, NEMA, and the county government are required.
5. Can borehole water run out?
   • Yes, if the aquifer dries up due to over-extraction or environmental changes.

Why Choose Water Equation & Solar System Ltd.?

• Expertise: We are the best borehole drilling company in Kenya, with years of experience and a proven track record.
• Comprehensive Services: From surveys to pump installation, we handle every step of the process.
• Free Agronomy Support: We provide crop irrigation system design and agronomy support for the first season.
• Sustainable Solutions: Our solar-powered pumps promote eco-friendly water extraction.

Conclusion

Drilling a borehole is a significant investment that requires careful planning and execution. With Water Equation & Solar System Ltd., you can be assured of high-quality services, transparent pricing, and ongoing support. Contact us today to start your borehole drilling project and secure a reliable water source for your home or farm.

Contact Us Today to learn more about our borehole drilling services and how we can help you achieve a sustainable water solution!