Science & Technology:

Optimizing Geothermal with Geo-Solar Hybrid Systems (DOE/EERE)

Modeled results achieved a 5% reduction in the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) by using a retrofit geothermal-solar hybrid plant. 

The Stillwater geothermal plant is the first hybrid solar geo
facility in the nation. (Courtesy Enel Green Power)

The U.S. DOE is exploring the potential of using hybrid applications to raise power plant outputs at low cost. During 2014, industry partner Enel Green Power—in collaboration with Idaho National Laboratory and National Renewable Energy Laboratory —began work to quantify the economic benefits of combining geothermal and solar thermal systems. Positive results could enhance deployment of these clean, renewable energy technologies in regions where the resources overlap.

The research team is evaluating both the technical and economic aspects of hybrid power generation, by combining geothermal energy with concentrating solar power (CSP) technology. The work utilizes data from the operating Stillwater geothermal-photovoltaic hybrid plant in Fallon, Nevada, where CSP was installed this year.

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