Friday, August 31, 2018

USA, Oregon: Video of Neal Hot Springs Geothermal Power Plant

Neal Hot Springs (Puget Sound Energy)

Neal Hot Springs is one of only a handful of large-scale geothermal power plants in the country. Located near Vale, Oregon, the facility produces enough energy to power 25,000 homes and is one of the sustainable resources supported by Puget Sound Energy’s Green Power program.

(Video 1:15 Minutes)

Geothermal Energy News from Around the World

Global Geothermal News - Weekly Update (Geothermal Resources Council)


A Round-up of this week's international geothermal energy news.......

Click on the links below to view the whole story and other news on Global Geothermal News.

USA: Future Directions for Geothermal in the USGS's Energy Resources Program

Future Directions for the U.S. Geological Survey's Energy Resources Program (National Academy of Sciences)

The US Geological Survey’s Energy Resources Program (ERP) will need to recognize and adapt to changes during the last 10 years in the world’s energy production and consumption patterns if it expects to retain its reputation as an objective and reliable information source, a new report from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine concluded.

Although geothermal energy is a relatively small contributor to the nation’s energy mix, the geothermal energy potential of the United States is substantial, with the added advantage that geothermal energy is a renewable resource that provides baseload energy.

To develop geothermal energy resources and reduce exploration and development risk, advances in subsurface exploration strategies and engineering technologies are required. This, in turn, necessitates access to appropriate geoscientific data sets that support detailed characterization of the subsurface and lead to step-change advances in the conceptual understanding of geothermal systems.

The locations and quality of potential available water resources to support future engineered geothermal systems (EGS) projects is included in the data needed. Currently, no single agency is responsible for updating databases with key geothermal data (e.g., sub-surface temperatures, heat flow, fluid chemistry and rock properties); there is the opportunity for ERP to serve in this capacity.

The ERP also needs to be a leader in updating and improving methods for regional and national-scale geothermal resource assessments. Using these methodologies, the ERP might then maintain up-to-date assessments of the national geothermal resource inventory (for both conventional and EGS resources). These are high-priority needs, and the ERP is suited to meet them. Groups such as the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Geothermal Technologies Office would be among the beneficiaries of the outcomes of this work and may offer opportunities to leverage resources.

Read More..........

USA, Oregon: Altarock has Plans to Reach 500 Degrees Celsius at 4.5 K Depth at Newberry

Q&A: Susan Petty on expanding the reach of geothermal energy (Physics Today)

Susan Petty
Susan Petty (a GRC Member) wants to go hotter. If that means drilling near a volcano, she’s in. Drilling deeper than any geothermal well to date? Fine. Petty’s company, Seattle-based AltaRock Energy, is gearing up to do both those things at its site near the Newberry volcano, about 32 kilometers south of Bend, Oregon.

Physics Today (PT): What’s next for AltaRock?

PETTY: We think we have some new and exciting technology. High temperatures make enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) more efficient and economical. One superhot well can produce 25–50 megawatts. For comparison, the Haynesville shale gas wells in Louisiana produce 8–10 megawatts electric equivalent, a conventional geothermal well produces 5 megawatts, and a typical EGS produces 7 megawatts. And the generation costs would be 4.5 to 5 cents per kilowatt-hour, which is competitive with wind or solar or coal.

Right now you could probably supply 10 GW of electric power in the western US with superhot EGS by going to the sides of volcanoes and other places where shallow areas are hot.

PT: How deep do you need to go?

PETTY: We took over two wells on the side of the Newberry volcano. The deepest well is about 3 kilometers deep, with a temperature of 340 °C. We want to get to 500 °C, which should be at about 4.5 to 5 kilometers in depth. When we do that, we are hoping to create fractures and to produce very high temperature fluids. We are guessing that if we drill to 500 °C, we might be able to produce 450 °C at the surface. We would use surface equipment made with technologies borrowed from nuclear plants.

Deepening the well, doing the fracturing, and then doing a bunch of science that goes with it so you understand what you did will cost about $14 million. We are applying for grants from the government and foundations.

Read More........

Kenya: Marubeni Gets EPC Contract for 70 MW Unit 6 at Olkaria I Geothermal Power Plant

Marubeni Awarded Geothermal Power Plant Project from Kenya Electricity Generating Company Limited (News Release)

Marubeni Corporation has been awarded a full turnkey engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract from Kenya Electricity Generating Company Limited in relation to the construction of a 70 MW class geothermal power plant in the Olkaria area of Nakuru County in the Republic of Kenya.

This will be Marubeni’s first geothermal power plant project in Africa.

The goal of this Project, which is expected to be completed in 2021, is the construction of a sixth power generation unit within Olkaria I Geothermal Power Station. The main components required for this Project, such as steam turbines and generators, will be provided to Marubeni by Fuji Electric Co., Ltd. Japan.

This Project will be financed by an Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and also by loans from European Investment Bank.

Read More.........

Fuji Electric will be exhibiting at the GRC Annual Meeting & Expo from 14-17 October in Reno, Nevada, USA.

From the Global Geothermal News Archives:

Six Weeks to the Geothermal Energy Event of the Year

GRC Annual Meeting & Expo - A Geothermal Event!

Six weeks to go! Register Now !

Geothermal’s Role in Today’s Energy Market

14-17 October, 2018
Peppermill Resort Spa Casino, Reno, Nevada, USA

Event Program (PDF)........
Online Registration.........
 Registration Form (PDF).........
Event Flyer (PDF)..........


Nearly 1,000 attendees came to the 2017 GRC Annual Meeting and Expo from 35 different countries around the world, highlighting the GRC’s role in connecting the global community. With increasing interest in geothermal as a reliable source of renewable energy providing both flexible and baseload power production around the world, the GRC is looking ahead to an even stronger international attendance in 2018.

Thursday, August 30, 2018

USA, Colorado: Three Day Geothermal Hot Springs Conference

U.S. Hot Springs Conference!

November 7–9, 2018, Glenwood Springs, Colorado, USA

Especially designed for hot springs owners, operators, general managers, facilities directors and marketing professionals.

Meet hot springs colleagues from across the United States. Exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour of the world’s largest mineral hot springs, vapor caves and new facilities.

Get Tickets.........                   More Information........

Indonesia: Reducing Geothermal Exploration Risk by Assuring Quality of Preliminary Data

How Preliminary Data Quality Assurance Could Reduce Geothermal Exploration Risk In Indonesia (LinkedIn)

by Hevy Umbara, Geothermal Database Engineers at Patra Nusa Data


Several geothermal resources information management best practice in developed countries have been summarized to set the standard of what parameters should be checked and assured during the preparation of geothermal preliminary data in order to provide high-quality information about the resources potential. Aspects including; data types, field staff qualification, tools and equipment, data acquisition methodology, data processing procedure, data completeness check, reporting & presentation as well as data storage and dissemination procedure were also explained to give clear illustration that a good assessment from a quality assured preliminary data could deliver necessary references in defining the success of any geothermal field development campaign.

If you are interested to discover further explanation of this article, please join Hevy Umbara at the IIGCE 2018, 6-7 September 2018 at Foyer Lower Lobby - Jakarta Convention Center.

Europe: Latest News from the Corrosion Resistant Coatings for Geothermal Applications Consortium

Geo-Coat Newsletter

Corrosion resistant coatings for geothermal applications (Geo-Coat)


The Geo-Coat consortium has announced the first Geo-Coat Newsletter. Download the newsletter here.

Switzerland: Exploring for Resources at Lausanne Geothermal District Heating Project

En quête de chaleur souterraine - In search of underground heat (24 Heures)

Un tracteur vibreur sonde le sous-sol tous les 5 mètres.
A vibrating tractor probes the basement every 5 meters. Image: DR
Les Services industriels lausannois étudient les sous-sols de l'ouest de l'agglomération à la recherche d'énergie. 

L’idée est d’exploiter l’eau chaude se trouvant entre 2000 et 2500 mètres de profondeur afin de chauffer directement des quartiers futurs ou déjà bâtis dans cette zone géographique. Mais aussi dans le but d’approvisionner le système de chauffage à distance de l’agglomération lausannoise.

(From Google Translate) Prospection Lausanne's industrial services are studying the basements to the west of the city in search of energy. 

The idea is to exploit the hot water located between 2000 and 2500 meters deep to directly heat future districts or those that are already built in this geographical area. But also in order to supply the district heating system of the Lausanne area. 

Lire la suite........                   Read More.........

USA, California: GRC Policy Committee Supports Development of More Geothermal Energy in the Golden State

AB-893 California Renewables Portfolio Standard Program


Join the GRC Policy Committee.........

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

Global: Free Article from the GRC Bulletin - The Voice of the Geothermal Energy Community

The Latest News from the Geothermal Resources Council (GRC)

Free article from the GRC Bulletin - Volume 47, No. 4 - July/August 2018


The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) has released the latest GRC Bulletin, the voice of the global geothermal energy industry, published continuously since 1972.

The Bulletin is free with GRC Membership or subscribe (PDF) to six issues a year for $90 in the USA or $140 worldwide.

The GRC has generously provided 5 pages from the latest issue for free! However, the full issue is 65 pages and available to download for GRC Members only.

In this issue, there is an article on the awarding of the FORGE lab to the University of Utah, a technical paper on scale removal of problematic pilica from geothermal brine, an article by the GRC Student Committee on how a lava eruption disrupted the operations of the Puna Geothermal Venture on Hawaii and 20 pages of geothermal news from around the world.

The GRC Bulletin is only available online to GRC members. To make sure of your copy join the GRC today!

USA: DOE Announces Funding for Projects to Utilize Geothermal Energy to Create A Modern Grid of the Future

GTO Announces Beyond Batteries Lab Call Selections (EERE/GTO)

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO) announced the selection of eight projects to receive up to $2.4 million in funding via the Beyond Batteries Lab Call: Geothermal Energy Applications for Storage Alternatives.

These projects will explore opportunities for integrating geothermal energy into various functions in support of the Beyond Batteries objectives. These include dispatchability, co-production, and hybrid operations to improve grid reliability, resilience, and security.

The selected projects include:
  • Brookhaven National Laboratory: Advanced Thermal Shock-Resistant Cement (TSRC) Suitable to Withstand Frequent Thermal Cycling
  • Idaho National Laboratory: Dynamic Earth Energy Storage: Terawatt-Year, Grid-Scale Energy Storage using Planet Earth as a Thermal Battery
  • Idaho National Laboratory: Geo-Solar Hybrid Power Plant with Subsurface Thermal Energy Storage to Increase Geothermal Plant Dispatchability
  • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory: Analysis of Curtailment of Geothermal Power Generation in the California Electricity Market and Beyond – Temporal Variability and Future Trends
  • National Renewable Energy Laboratory: Exploring the Role of Geothermal in Enhancing Cold-Climate Net Zero Communities
  • National Renewable Energy Laboratory: Alternative CAES Technology Using Depleted Unconventional Gas Wells and Subsurface Thermal Energy Storage
  • Oak Ridge National Laboratory: A Mobile Sorption-Based Thermal Battery for Harvesting Geothermal Energy
  • Oak Ridge National Laboratory: Novel Heat Pump Integrated Underground Thermal Energy Storage for Shaping Electric Demand of Buildings
These projects support the objectives of the DOE Grid Modernization Initiative (GMI) by exploring approaches to utilize geothermal energy in order to create the modern grid of the future.

The GMI works across DOE with the goal of developing the tools and technologies that measure, analyze, predict, protect, and control the grid of the future. As part of the GMI, the Beyond Batteries Initiative considers energy storage holistically. It focuses on opportunities for flexible generation, controllable loads, and new approaches to the broader concept of energy storage to effectively mimic many of the benefits of large scale batteries and to increase the reliability and resilience of the U.S. energy systems.

Read More........

The Geothermal Technologies Office will be attending and exhibiting at the GRC Annual Meeting & Expo from 14-17 October in Reno, Nevada, USA.

Germany: Drilling for Neuried Geothermal Power Plant Project Expected to Begin in 2019

Daldrup & Söhne AG Geothermal power plants Taufkirchen and Landau on the grid (News Release)

German geothermal energy developer Daldrup & Söhne AG has provided an update on it's geothermal energy operations.

The Taufkirchen geothermal power plant has started operations. The power plant is connected to the grid. The second evaporator for electricity production has been ordered. The Executive Board expects to connect the full power generation capacity to the grid in the first half of 2019. 

The Landau power plant has produced very satisfactory economic results. The Landau power plant has been producing electricity very successfully since it went into operation in the fourth quarter of 2017. 

Drilling work for the power plant in Neuried is expected to begin in 2019
The approval process for the planned geothermal power plant Neuried in the Ortenau district has been resumed with the Freiburg regional council. The Executive Board expects to start construction of the drilling site in the first half of 2019.

Puchheim heating plant to be realized with financial investors. The Puchheim geothermal combined heat and power plant project will be pursued further without participation of the city of Puchheim in the project company. Irrespective of this, the Daldrup Group will continue to pursue the project with financial investors.

United Kingdom: Glasgow Geothermal Energy Research Field Site Approved

Glasgow gives warm welcome to geothermal heat research (NERC)


Glasgow City Council and South Lanarkshire Council have approved plans to develop a world class geothermal research observatory in the east end of the city. Work will begin on site this autumn.

The research at the observatory aims to contribute to an understanding of the potential for warm water in disused coal mines to be used for renewable heat. The observatory is one of two sites proposed in the £31 million UK Geoenergy Observatories investment led by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), the UK's leading funder for environmental sciences, and the British Geological Survey (BGS), the UK's principal provider of impartial geological evidence since 1835.

The Glasgow Geothermal Energy Research Field Site will enable the UK science community to study the geothermal environment just below the Earth's surface.

Read More........

From the Global Geothermal News archives:

Hungary: PannErgy Subsidiary Receives Grant to Develop Technology Develop Technology that can Extend Lifetime of Geothermal Wells

PannErgy’s Subsidiary Awarded Development Grant (News Release)

PannErgy Plc of Budapest, Hungary has announced that its subsidiary, DoverDrill Deep Drilling Ltd has been awarded a non-repayable grant of HUF 500 million under the EU Economic Development Operational Programme (GINOP) to develop technology that can extend the lifetime of geothermal wells, thus improving the sustainability of
geothermal systems.

An important operational task of geothermal wells is to track and monitor changes in the erosion and fluid composition. DoverDrill’s innovation facilitates that the fluid bases of geothermal wells are tested in a way that is different from previous methods, and therefore the impacts of physical, chemical, electrochemical, mixed and selective erosion caused by fluids to be obtained from geothermal wells can be significantly reduced and the changes can be anticipated.

Due to the R&D development, the installation of new, as well as the operation of existing geothermal wells will be optimized in an economically quantifiable manner. Once the project is closed, the company is planning to market the technological innovation domestically and internationally.

Read More.........

USA, California: Legislation to Require 100% Renewable Energy by 2045 Passes Assembly

Plan to power California with all renewable energy clears major hurdle (Sacramento Bee)

The California state capitol in Sacramento
(Courtesy Wikimedia Commons)
The California Legislature is poised to send a bill to the governor that would require all retail electricity to be generated from solar, wind and other renewable energy sources (including geothermal) by 2045.

Despite objections from utilities and oil companies, the Assembly voted 43-32 to eliminate fossil fuels in the state’s energy sector on Tuesday. Senate Bill 100, introduced by Sen. Kevin de León, must return to the Senate, and is all but guaranteed to reach the Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk before the legislative session ends this week.

In addition to setting the no-carbon standard, the bill would revise interim goals along the way. The bill bumps up an existing target by four years to hit 50 percent renewable energy in 2027 and sets the state on track to meet the 60 percent threshold by the end of 2030.

Tuesday, August 28, 2018

GRC Annual Meeting & Expo - Event App!

Geothermal Energy Event - We've Got an App for That!

https://attendify.com/app/o2gnls/
The GRC is again providing a Mobile app for the GRC Annual Meeting & Expo. It is now available to download to an iPhone, Android or Windows Smartphone, tablet or laptop computer giving event attendees better access to information and networking.

The mobile app allows the GRC to post more information online and avoid print costs.

Did you know you can advertise on the GRC Event App? Contact Anh Lay at alay@geothermal.org for more information.

We strongly encourage you to download the mobile guide to enhance your experience at the GRC Annual Meeting & Expo. You'll be able to plan your day with a personalized schedule and browse exhibitors, maps and general show info. You can browse all the essential information even without internet access.

Start off by downloading the container "Attendify" app, then search for "GRC Annual Meeting & Expo".

After a simple download and installation the app can be personalized with your own schedule and notes on activities. When you sign-in to the app you will be able to interact with other attendees and build an on-site network. Attendees will also be able to post their own photos and comments to the app for all to see on the "activity stream".
Scan this QR Code

The App is a work in progress, updates are loaded as information becomes available and your feedback is encouraged as you get familiar with it. All questions and feedback can be sent to Ian Crawford at icrawford@geothermal.org.

Download the app now!.......
Web Version.........

USA, California: Change in Language on Geothermal Energy in Renewables Portfolio Standard Program Legislation

AB-893 California Renewables Portfolio Standard Program

Amended In Senate August 24, 2018

Amendments to Eduardo Garcia's AB 893 have been published. The new language would require California utilities to sign contracts for 1,000 MW of existing geothermal and 750 MW of new geothermal.
  • 08/27/18 Re-referred to Com. on RLS. pursuant to Senate Rule 29.10(c).
  • 08/27/18 Read second time. Ordered to third reading.

Indonesia: GRC Workshop on Integrated Subsurface Analysis to Optimize Decisions in Geothermal Exploration

GRC Workshop Before 6th Indonesia International Geothermal Convention and Exhibition (IIGCE)

3-4 September 2018, Jakarta Convention Center, Indonesia


More Information.........

Science & Technology: US Lab Develops Self-Healing Cement that Performs Strongly in Harsh Geothermal Conditions

A sidewalk that repairs itself? PNNL cracks the code for self-healing cement (Tri-City Herald)

On the left, conventional cement shows the damage caused by harsh conditions found in power plants, geothermal wells, dams or in gas and oil applications. In contrast, PNNL’s self-healing cement, on the right, could begin repairing itself within 24 hours of a crack appearing. Courtesy Andrea Starr, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) researchers are developing a self-healing cement for use in harsh environments where cement can fail over time due to exposure to chemical and physical stresses. When cement in power plants, geothermal wells, oil and gas applications, or hydroelectric dams fails, it can lead to expensive excavation, repair and replacement costs, along with lost production time and revenue, and potential environmental concerns.

With funding from DOE’s Geothermal Technology Office, PNNL scientists have been using their chemistry and materials science know-how to create self-healing cements by adding polymers to traditional cement mixes. The resulting cement has re-adhering properties that extend its lifetime and reduce the risk of failure.


Kenya: 35 MW Quantum Power Menengai Geothermal Project Construction About to Start

Quantum Gears For Menengai (GDC)

The Geothermal Development Company (GDC) Menengai Geothermal project in Nakuru County is getting very close to commencement. On 22 August 2018, the Business Development Director at Quantum Power Mr. David Carroll, paid a courtesy call on the Managing Director & CEO Eng. Johnson P. Ole Nchoe to brief him on the progress. The two companies; GDC and Quantum Power have already finalized Condition Precedents which essentially allows the Independent Power Producer (IPP) to start the Menengai Plant construction. The move allows Quantum Power to reach a financial close and move to the ground to commence construction.

In June this year, the African Development Bank Group (AFDB) approved a Loan of USD 29.5 million and a Clean Technology Fund (CTF) Concessional loan of USD 20 million for Quantum Power – Menengai Geothermal Project. The Quantum Power – Menengai Geothermal Project is a 35 MW Project which is part of the three 35 MW plants awarded on Build-Own-Operate Concessions by the Government.

Read More........

Monday, August 27, 2018

Download the Poster for the Geothermal Energy Event of the Year!

GRC Annual Meeting & Expo


Download the Flyer.......... - Please share with your colleagues in the global geothermal energy community.

USA, Nevada: Lithium from Geothermal Brine Company Drills to 1,798 Feet

MGX Minerals Announces Completion of First Hole to 1800' at Kibby Basin, Nevada Lithium Brine Project (News Release)

MGX Minerals Inc. has announced that joint-venture partner Belmont Resources (BEA) has reported that drilling has reached a depth of 1,798 feet (548 metres) into the playa sediments in hole KB-3, the first hole of the 2018 drilling program at Kibby Basin.

The first section of the hole was drilled to a depth of 1,270 feet using a mud rotary method, and the remaining 528 feet was completed with a diamond core tail. A total of 126 samples of drill cuttings from the mud-rotary section of the hole have been collected and shipped to ALS Global lab facility in Reno, Nevada for assaying. Lithium and multi-element assay results from these samples will be compiled once testing is complete.

MGX has developed a rapid lithium extraction technology eliminating or greatly reducing the physical footprint and investment in large, multi-phase, lake-sized, lined evaporation ponds, as well as enhancing the quality of extraction and recovery across a complex range of brines as compared with traditional solar evaporation.

Read more.........

From the Global Geothermal News archives:

Germany: Baltic Sea Port Considers Geothermal Energy District Heating

Stadtwerke Rostock Prüfen Geothermie-Nutzung - Stadtwerke Rostock Considers Geothermal Energy Use (energate-messenger)

Die Stadtwerke Rostock prüfen den Bau eines Geothermie-Kraftwerks. Der Versorger will "in Kürze" eine entsprechende Konzession beim Bergbauamt Stralsund beantragen. Dies bestätigte ein Unternehmenssprecher auf energate-Anfrage. "Ich gehe davon aus, dass wir diese dann auch bekommen", so der Sprecher. Denn eine solche Konzession habe es für das Gebiet in der Vergangenheit schon gegeben.

(From Google Translate) Stadtwerke Rostock is considering the construction of a geothermal power plant. The supplier wants "shortly" to apply for a corresponding license at the Stralsund Mining Office. This was confirmed by a company spokesman after a request from energate. "I assume that we will get them then," said the spokesman. For such a concession has already existed for the area in the past. 

Weiterlesen.........                      Read More.........

Kenya: Drilling at Baringo-Silali Geothermal Project May Commence by the End of the Month

GDC Managing Director Hails Baringo-Silali Project Progress (News Release)

The Geothermal Development Company (GDC) Managing Director & CEO, Eng. Johnson P. Ole Nchoe has lauded the ongoing development works at the Baringo-Silali Geothermal Project.

Currently the contractor on the site has completed the installation of four water tanks with a capacity of 4.4 million litres each and over 90% of the waterline has been done. More than 100 KM of road has been done at the expansive project making mobility easier for both the local community and GDC project works.

Already several well pads have been constructed at Silali, Paka and Korosi. The contractor gave assurance that drilling may commence by the end of the month.

Read More.........

China: 27 MWe, 20,000 MWTh of Geothermal Energy Capacity in 2017

China Leads in Geothermal Heat Capacity, but Power Generation Lags, Study Finds (Yicai)

(Courtesy CIA.gov)
China is gradually developing geothermal energy, and the country’s industrial system has taken initial shape, a new study shows. Installed capacity of China's geothermal heat pumps reached 20,000 megawatts by the end of last year to rank first in the world.

In addition to its primary uses in heating and aquaculture, a lesser portion also goes to generate power, with the nation's power capacity by the end of last year of 27.28 MW ranking it 18th in the world, according to the country’s first research report on geothermal energy development issued by the National Energy Administration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and other agencies on Aug. 25.

Problems of insufficient and uncoordinated development still exist in China's geothermal energy industry, however, the report also noted. 

Iceland: GRC Member to Lecture at UN Geothermal Training Program

UNU Visiting Lecturer 2018 - William Cumming from USA (UNU-GTP)

The United Nations University (UNU) Geothermal Training Programme Visiting Lecturer in 2018 is the American geophysicist and geothermal expert Mr. William Cumming, a long-time GRC Member.

Bill Cumming gives lectures on the application of geophysical methods in geothermal exploration and associated problems at Orkugardur, Grensásvegi 9, Reykjavík, Iceland from September 3-7, starting at 9:00 in the morning, according to the following agenda, with each lecture expected to be about one hour plus discussion:

  • Monday, September 3 - 9:00-10:15, Vídgelmir lecture room
    Geophysical constraints on geothermal resource conceptual models.
  • Tuesday September 4 - 9:00-10:15, UNU-GTP lecture premises
    Integrating geophysics with engineering and geoscience disciplines: how professional silos impact geothermal decisions.
  • Wednesday September 5 - 9:00-10:15, UNU-GTP lecture premises
    Mitigating acquisition, processing and interpretation pitfalls in geothermal MT, TEM, gravity, magnetic and reflection seismic surveys. 
  • Thursday September 6 - 9:00-10:15, UNU-GTP lecture premises
    High value geothermal development decisions informed by seismicity monitoring and repeat microgravity surveys. 
  • Friday September 7 - 9:00-10:15, Vídgelmir lecture room
    Geothermal Resource Decision Workshops: training on integrating geoscience data to build geothermal conceptual models used to target wells, estimate resource capacity and assess confidence in resource decisions.

USA, New York: Vacancy as Professor of Environmental Balance for Human Sustainability

Wold Family Professor in Environmental Balance for Human Sustainability (Cornell University)


The Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Cornell University is searching for a visionary Earth scientist to be the next Wold Family Professor in Environmental Balance for Human Sustainability.

We seek candidates with significant experience and a strong reputation in the energy and/or mineral resources industries who can lead innovative research. Preferences will be given to candidates who can establish connections between industry and academia, and spur transfer of innovative ideas from university research to practice.

The appointment is a half-time academic year position on a 5-year term (renewable once). Whereas the position is ideally suited for an individual seeking flexibility for external commitments, the holder of the Chair must be eager to engage in innovative education of the next generation of global leaders in this field, and to conduct research.

More Information and Apply.........

Global Geothermal Energy Awards Announced

Geothermal Energy Awards Announced

Best and brightest of the global geothermal community will be honored at the GRC Annual Meeting in Reno, Nevada, USA

The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC), one of the world’s premier geothermal associations, has announced awards honoring the best and brightest of the global geothermal energy community. These prestigious awards have been a highlight of the geothermal calendar since the late 1970's.

The GRC will present the prestigious Aidlin, Pioneer, Henry J Ramey Jr., and Geothermal Special Achievement awards at the GRC Annual Meeting in Reno, Nevada, October 14-17.

The recipients of these awards have a lifetime of achievement in the geothermal academic, scientific and commercial communities. The GRC Awards recognizes the contributions of these individuals to educational institutions and the geothermal community around the world.

This year’s award winners are:
  • Joseph W. Aidlin Award  - Ron Barr
    Recognizes outstanding contributions to the Geothermal Resources Council and to the development of geothermal resources.
  • Geothermal Pioneer Award  - Zvi Krieger
    Recognizes outstanding achievements in the development of geothermal resources.
  • Henry J.  Ramey Jr. Award - Peter Rose
    For outstanding achievements in the field of geothermal reservoir engineering.
  • Geothermal Special Achievement Awards 
    Recognizes special or outstanding achievements in any aspect of geothermal energy development and related areas.
    • Roy Baria
    • Virgil Welch and  
    • Kasumi Yasukawa
For more information about the GRC Annual Meeting & Expo at the Peppermill Resort Spa & Casino, Reno, Nevada, USA visit www.geothermal.org or call (530) 758-2360.

Saturday, August 25, 2018

Fifty Days to the Geothermal Energy Event of the Year

GRC Annual Meeting & Expo - A Geothermal Event!

50 Days to go! Event Register Now !

Geothermal’s Role in Today’s Energy Market

14-17 October, 2018
Peppermill Resort Spa Casino, Reno, Nevada, USA


Nearly 1,000 attendees came to the 2017 GRC Annual Meeting and Expo from 35 different countries around the world, highlighting the GRC’s role in connecting the global community. With increasing interest in geothermal as a reliable source of renewable energy providing both flexible and baseload power production around the world, the GRC is looking ahead to an even stronger international attendance in 2018.

Friday, August 24, 2018

Geothermal Energy News from Around the World

Global Geothermal News - Weekly Update (Geothermal Resources Council)


A Round-up of this week's international geothermal energy news.......

Click on the links below to view the whole story and other news on Global Geothermal News.

Netherlands: Focus of Huisman Geo will be on Dutch Geothermal Energy Market and in Neighbouring Countries

Huisman starts Huisman Geo to focus on operations and development of the geothermal energy market (News Release)

Dutch company Huisman recently started a new business line ‘Huisman Geo’, for the development of sustainable solutions towards affordable and clean energy and as one of its contributions to the energy transition. Huisman Geo combines the extensive design and manufacturing knowledge of Huisman, with the operational experience of drilling multiple wells in the European and US hydrocarbon and geothermal land drilling market.

The initial focus of Huisman Geo will be on the geothermal energy market in the Netherlands and neighbouring countries. Huisman Geo will operate with Huisman manufactured drilling rigs. One of the goals of Huisman Geo is to decrease the investment and operating costs, which are a key factor to enable large portfolio geothermal projects, needed to achieve the current ambitious energy transition plans.

Poland: Update on Geothermal District Heating Projects

Country Update – Poland (IGA)

by Michal Kruszewski (GZB)

(Courtesy CIA.gov)
Poland is one of the central European countries with high geothermal potential and strong interests from government as well as local authorities.

The country has only low-enthalpy resources, connected in most cases with the Mesozoic sedimentary formations. Six geothermal district heating plants are currently in operation in Poland i.e. Podhale region since 1994, Pyrzyce since 1996, Mszczonów since 2000, Uniejów since 2001, Poddębice since 2012 and Stargard since 2012, with total installed capacity of 76 MWth and heat production of 227 GWh.

The most attractive direct applications of geothermal energy in Poland are space heating, balneotherapy, recreational, aquaculture and other minor uses.

Read More..........

Ethiopia: USTDA to Support Development of First 50 MW at Tulu Moye Geothermal Project

U.S. Trade and Development Agency Supports Geothermal Power in Ethiopia (News Release)


The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) will sign a grant with Tulu Moye Geothermal Operations Private Limited Company (TMGO), on Monday August 27 at Sheraton Hotel.

The grant will support initial activities toward the development of the first 50 megawatts of the planned 520 megawatt Tulu Moye Geothermal project.

You are cordially invited to cover the grant signing event at the Sheraton Addis, Semien Hall, Monday, August 27, 2018 at 1:45 pm.     

Please RSVP to Yohannes Gezahegn (0911 512 227) or Ali Suleiman (0911 509 510).

Read More.........

From the Global Geothermal News archives:

United Kingdom: Vacancy as Professor of Geothermal Energy at Heriot-Watt University

Professor of Geothermal Energy (Heriot-Watt University)


Closing date: 23 September 2018 
Salary: £59,828–£85,436 
Location: The Lyell Centre, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society, Edinburgh, Scotland

To celebrate our 2021 bicentenary of pioneering research we are seeking to appoint a highly-talented Professor of Geothermal Energy to join our world-leading team.

This post, co-funded by the British Geological Survey (BGS), is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic and aspiring individual to proactively lead and enhance the development of new, effective, and sustainable collaboration between BGS and the University.

More Information..........

Deadline for Global Geothermal Photo Contest is Today!

The Geothermal Resources Council 2018 Amateur Photo Contest

The deadline for submissions is Midnight Tonight, Friday August 24

Midnight Heat, by Hreinn Hjartarson, Husavik, Iceland.
HONORABLE MENTION GRC PHOTO CONTEST 2017
The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) is reminding entrants of the deadline for this year’s Amateur Geothermal Photo Contest. The purpose of the contest is to showcase quality photography featuring geothermal energy around the world.

The winners will be announced at the GRC Annual Meeting & Expo being held in Reno, Nevada,  USA from October 14-17.

The first place winner will receive $150, second place - $100, and third place - $75. Honorable Mention photos will receive certificates.

Photographs on any subject related to geothermal energy can be submitted such as geothermal energy production, Enhanced Geothermal systems (EGS), direct use and geothermal heat pumps. These can include photos of well testing, drilling, operation of geothermal equipment, newly developed equipment, or plant operation, construction of a geothermal plant or plant site, and geological areas or surface manifestations (holding potential for geothermal exploration or development). New this year are acceptance of "GIFs" - short animated movies of a few seconds each.

More information on the GRC Amateur Photo Contest, including a submission form, can be found on the GRC website. The deadline for submissions is midnight tonight, Friday August 24, 2018.

Philippines: Agreement Made to Drill New Production Wells at MakBan and Tiwi Geothermal Power Plants

AboitizPower unit inks geothermal services, supply contract with PGPC (Philstar)

AP Renewables Inc. (APRI) has signed a geothermal resources supply and services agreement (GRSSA) with Philippine Geothermal Production Co. Inc. (PGPC), the company said yesterday.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, APRI said the GRSSA involves the supply of steam and drilling of new production wells in the Tiwi and MakBan Geothermal Complex.

The company said the agreement aims to ensure the long-term operations of the two renewable power plant facilities.

APRI, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AboitizPower, operates the 458 MW MakBan Geothermal Power Plants that straddle the provinces of Batangas and Laguna, as well as the 289 MW Tiwi Geothermal Power Plants in Albay.

PGPC, the pioneer in the commercial development of geothermal energy in Southeast Asia, is the steamfields operator and geothermal resource provider to the power plants.

Under the GRSSA, PGPC will drill 12 new production wells over a six-year period to increase steam availability for the power plant facilities by about 20 percent.

Read More..............

The Geothermal Energy Magazine - Now Available Online

Now Available - GRC Bulletin - Vol. 47, No. 4, July/August 2018

Produced by the Geothermal Resources Council since 1972, the Bulletin is the magazine for the international geothermal energy community.

In this issue:
  • President’s Message, by Maria Richards
  • Executive Director's Message, by William Pettitt
  • Inside Geothermal: 20 pages of geothermal energy news from around the world
  • Frontier for Research in Geothermal Energy Awarded to University of Utah, by Elisabet Metcalfe
  • Transforming Silica into Silicate – Pilot Scale Removal of Problematic Silica from Geothermal Brine, by Thomas Borrmann, et al 
  • Lava Eruption Disrupts the Puna Geothermal Venture - The Background, by Michael Mathioudakis, et al
  • Geothermal History in the Making - Geothermal Resources Council - The Early Years, by David N. Anderson
Download your copy now........

Please Note: The GRC Bulletin is only available online to GRC members. To make sure of your copy join the GRC today!

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

USA, New Mexico: Enlarged Energy Imbalance Market Will Help Distribute Renewable Energy

New Mexico utility seeks to join western energy market (AP News)

New Mexico’s largest electric utility is asking state regulators for approval to join a wholesale trading market that allows participants in several western states to buy and sell energy to better balance supply and demand.

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power is among those expected to join the energy imbalance market by 2020 while large utilities in Arizona, Nevada and Utah already are on board.

Public Service Co. of New Mexico (PNM) wants to join by 2021, saying the move could save an estimated $17 million annually for its customers and ensure more efficient use of the electricity generated by solar, wind and other renewable resources throughout the region.

Finance: Funding Available for "Proven" Clean Energy Technologies Including Geothermal

Capital Dynamics Clean Energy and Infrastructure Fund raises $1.4bn (Energy Digital)

European asset management company Capital Dynamics has closed its most recent clean energy funding round at a total of $1.39bn (€1.2bn).

The Clean Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Fund (of which version VII closed this week) focuses on ‘proven’ clean energy technologies including solar, wind, biomass/landfill gas, geothermal, gas-fired and hydro.

Capital Dynamics says it wants funds to focus on clean energy for a number of reasons: rising electricity prices; increased cost competitiveness of proven technologies; increasing economic, political and social demand; increased retirement of ageing power infrastructure in developed markets; and a range of legally binding regulatory and market-based investment incentives.

The CEI fund program, according to the company, “invests directly in commercial and utility-scale, clean and low-carbon power generation assets or related infrastructure employing proven technologies, primarily in North America and Europe”.

Turkey: Opportunity to Consult on Long-Term Production Scheme for Geothermal Energy

Invitation for expressions of interest - Early Stage Geothermal Support Framework: (PLUTO) - Development of Cumulative Impact Assessment of Geothermal Resources (EBRD)

Single Stage Open Competitive Selection – Invitation for expressions of interest. Closing date: 13 Sep 2018

In the context of the Private Sector Early Stage Geothermal Development Framework (PLUTO) Programme, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) intends to engage a consultant in order to produce a Cumulative Impact Assessment (CIA) which will be composed of two parts: a scoping study in Phase I and a CIA study in Phase II. The scoping study will define the issues that need to be addressed in the CIA study, considering the specific context in which the sector is being developed and is likely to be implemented. Precise activities and calendar for the CIA study will be determined on the basis of the conclusions of the scoping study.

The detailed scope of work and services are further described in the full Terms of Reference attached hereto: http://www.ebrd.com/documents/procurement/74860-tors.docx

More Information........

USA, California: Vacancies at Geothermal Fluid Analysis Laboratories

Vacancies at Thermochem

GRC Company Member  Thermochem of Santa Rosa, California, provides chemical engineering, laboratory analysis, geochemistry, field testing services and products to a wide range of energy industries. From base operations in the Western USA and South-East Asia, Thermochem has served oil and gas, power generation and renewable energy companies for more than 30 years.

Thermochem operates two specialized geothermal fluid analysis laboratories (USA and Indonesia) where samples from around the world are shipped for analysis. Both facilities provide a base for all our field testing capabilities, including geochemical exploration, two-phase sampling, TFT®, reservoir tracer testing, downhole sampling, PTS logging, production well flow testing, and power plant performance testing. These locations also serve as our regional bases for instrumentation and equipment assembly and specialized product sales.

Thermochem has two vacancies:
  • Field Chemist

    Under general supervision assists with field projects, performs sampling functions and maintains field equipment.
More Information..........
Ph: (707) 575-1310 – Email Resume to: Barbara Stahl

Thermochem will be exhibiting at the GRC Annual Meeting & Expo from 14-17 October in Reno, Nevada, USA.

Iceland: Video - GRC Member Tours Geothermal Wonders

Iceland's Volcanic World (National Geographic)

Discover Iceland’s boiling rivers, geysers, and volcanoes with explorer Andres Ruzo - GRC Member and recipient of a 2013 GRC Scholarship Award.


Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Netherlands: Vacancy as Professor of Geothermal Engineering

Assistant or Associate Professor of Geothermal Engineering (Delft University of Technology)

Salary: 3545 - 5978 euros monthly 
Closing date: Oct. 31, 2018

The new Assistant or Associate Professor is expected to conduct research into scientific challenges in the field of geothermal science and engineering, for example in geothermal reservoir characterisation, reservoir and production engineering, e.g. the understanding of breakthrough mechanisms of thermal and chemical fronts in relation to subsurface heterogeneities, the interaction of geothermal fluids with rocks and technical installations, or the thermal and mechanical fracture development in reservoir rock.

In addition to these subsurface-related challenges there are numerous scientific and engineering questions emerging from geothermal energy production in the Netherlands. These involve, for example, drilling technology, optimisation and up-scaling of geothermal operations, as well as other economic, legal and policy aspects.

More Information and apply........

Monday, August 20, 2018

Science & Technology: Monitoring the Thermal Status of the Beppu Geothermal Area From Space

Monitoring Thermal Activity of the Beppu Geothermal Area in Japan Using Multisource Satellite Thermal Infrared Data

Geosciences 2018, 8(8), 306; doi: 10.3390/geosciences8080306
by Md. Bodruddoza Mia, Yasuhiro Fujimitsu and Jun Nishijima


The Beppu geothermal area, one of the largest spa resorts on the northeast Kyushu Island of Japan, is fed by hydrothermal fluids beneath the volcanic center of Mt. Garan and Mt. Tsurumi in the west.

We explored the thermal status of the Beppu geothermal area using nighttime multisource satellite thermal infrared data (TIR) from the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) and Landsat 8 thermal infrared scanner (TIRS) to monitor heat loss from 2009 to 2017.

The results show similar patterns of heat loss and thermal anomalies in both the Beppu geothermal area and Mt. Garan fumaroles, indicating a closely connected geothermal system overall. This suggests that nighttime TIR data are effective for monitoring the thermal status of the Beppu geothermal area.

Read More.........

Indonesia: New Zealand Company to Trial Technology at Wayang Windu Geothermal Power Project

Geoflow Imaging & Star Energy sign agreement to trial "game changing" new technology for geothermal power (LinkedIn)


Geoflow Imaging of Auckland, New Zealand is trialling a "game changing" technology to significantly reduce the cost of geothermal exploration - which has stifled growth of geothermal power for decades. If successful, it will open up geothermal baseload, clean energy to hundreds of millions of people around the world.

In order to achieve this ambition, Geoflow Imaging is privileged to announce that it has partnered with Star Energy to trial its technology starting early in 2019. Star Energy has selected Wayang Windu as the site for the trial which is 40 km south of Bandung.

Read More.........

USA, California: Legislation that Would Require Utilities to Purchase Geothermal Power Moves Forward

Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia’s Geothermal Energy Proposal Prevails in Senate Appropriations (News Release)

Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia 
Thursday, in the midst of fevered policy discussions surrounding the fate of California’s clean energy future, Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia successfully advanced AB 893, his proposal supporting geothermal, out of the Senate Committee on Appropriations. The geothermal procurement mandated in this measure is of immense significance to the Riverside and Imperial County communities in Garcia’s district.

“Areas surrounding the Salton Sea are uniquely ripe for renewable energy development, geothermal being chief among them,” stated Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia. “Despite the increased reliability of geothermal, these resources have been greatly neglected in energy conversations. I introduced AB 893, to make sure that this tremendous regional opportunity is no longer overlooked and can be integrated into California's overall energy efforts. In addition to helping diversify our renewable energy portfolio, the inclusion of geothermal would unlock many economic as well as public health co-benefits for underserved areas like ours."

Employment: Drilling Operations Manager at Corbetti Geothermal Project

Drilling Operations Manager - Corbetti Geothermal Project

Closing date -- August 24

The Drilling Operations Manager (DOM) will be a full-time employee based in Ethiopia reporting to the Project Director.

He/she will lead the drilling function for Corbetti and will oversee the final design, planning and safe execution of the Project drilling program.

More Information.........