The European Geothermal Energy Council (EGEC) has put together an online presentation looking back at twelve months of milestones for Geothermal in Europe and a forecast for 2016.
Friday, January 29, 2016
Europe: Geothermal News from EGEC
The EGEC Newsletter January 2016 - The Voice of Geothermal in Europe
The December issue of the EGEC Newsletter is now available. Click here to download it.
The December issue of the EGEC Newsletter is now available. Click here to download it.
In this issue:
Editorial
- The European Commission to unveil its Security and Supply Package
- The revision of the Energy and Climate Framework
Policy Updates
- Revision of the Energy Efficiency Directive, EGEC responds to European Commission’s consultation
- RES Directive revision: The last few days to shape the most important piece of EU legislation for Geothermal
News
- ENEL Green Power enters German market
- Turboden expands into the Asian Geothermal Market
- New Heat Project Developing in Issy-les-Moulineaux, Paris, France
- New Video explaining the geothermal drilling process
- Geothermal Heating System for Paris Le Bourget airport
- PLUTO initiative: 125 million USD to support 60MW new geothermal capacity in Turkey
- Zorlu Enerji secures feed in tariff of 0.11 2 USd/KWh for Kızıldere II and Alaşehir I plants
- Second production well complete at Kocaköy, Turkey
- EIB announces support for Theistareykir geothermal plant
- Iceland deep drilling project partners awarded funding under Horizon 2020 for ‘DEEPEGS’
- Call for abstracts: 6th African Rift Geothermal Conference
- 2 Surface studies and 5 drilling programmes accepted for Geothermal Risk Mitigation Fund, next application period to open in May
- European Geothermal Market Report to be released in February
USA, Nebraska: Greenhouse in the Snow Uses Geothermal Heat to Grow Oranges and Lemons
Step Inside a Citrus Grove in a Geothermal Nebraska Greenhouse (Civil Eats)
Can the Midwest grow lemons and oranges? Yes—if you tap into the earth's energy like one Nebraska grower.
High on the Nebraska plains, there’s a citrus grove with trees holding up a canopy of lemons, grapefruit-sized oranges, green figs, and bunches of grapes.
Can the Midwest grow lemons and oranges? Yes—if you tap into the earth's energy like one Nebraska grower.
High on the Nebraska plains, there’s a citrus grove with trees holding up a canopy of lemons, grapefruit-sized oranges, green figs, and bunches of grapes.
Yes, it’s indoors. And it’s only possible because it taps into the core of the earth’s own energy, geothermal heating in the winter and cooling in the summer.
Russ Finch, a former mail carrier and farmer, designed the greenhouse, which he calls the Greenhouse in the Snow. The original, which he built more than 20 years ago, is connected to his home.
You don’t often see orange trees in Nebraska, but Finch says growing citrus was a way of showing that his geothermal greenhouse could work.
“All we try to do is keep it above 28 degrees in the winter,” Finch said. “We have no backup system for heat. The only heat source is the earth’s heat at 52 degrees at 8-foot deep.”
USA, Nevada: More Funds to Research Methods for Lithium Extraction from Geothermal Brines
DOE Releases Remaining Funding for Esmeralda Minerals’ Lithium Brine Project (News Release)
Esmeralda Minerals LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Pure Energy Minerals Limited based in Vancouver, Canada has announced that, based on the progress to date, the Department of Energy (DOE) has released the remaining funding for its collaboration with SRI International, a research and innovation center, to develop novel cost-effective methods for lithium extraction from geothermal brines. Nitto Innovations Inc. (NII), a US subsidiary of the Japanese diversified materials manufacturer Nitto Denko Corporation, has also joined the project.
Jointly funded by the DOE and the partners, SRI has teamed with Esmeralda Minerals LLC and NII to develop, validate and commercialize a new generation of highly selective ion exchange resins to separate metals, including lithium, from geothermal fluids more efficiently and at lower cost than current processes. The research is being conducted using lithium-enriched brines collected from the Company’s lithium brine project in Clayton Valley, Nevada and release of these funds allows expanded testing using Esmeralda’s resources.
Kenya: Geothermal Development Company Looking for New CEO
GDC seeks to put house in order, recruiting new head (The Star)
Geothermal Development Company (GDC) is seeking to fill the position of chief executive, left vacant following the ouster of founding boss Silas Simiyu who is fighting corruption charges.
The parastatal, charged with exploration, drilling and development of geothermal resources, yesterday invited applications from qualified candidates, in a process which will close on February 12.
The successful candidate will serve for a period of three years, renewable for another term.
The board, chaired by Gershom Bw’omanwa, appointed business development manager Paul Ngugi acting managing director on November 4.
Thursday, January 28, 2016
USA, California: Registration Now Open for Important Imperial Valley Renewable Conference
9th Annual Renewable Energy & Water Summit
March 9-11, Imperial Palms Hotel & Resort, Holtville, Imperial County, California
Imperial Valley is home to more than 2,000 megawatts of geothermal, solar and wind energy developments that have propelled the region into the spotlight as a renewable energy leader. Studies show Imperial Valley has the potential to produce up to 25,000 megawatts of renewable energy. As California pushes for an increased Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) of 20% by 2020 to 50% by 2030, Imperial Valley continues to be positioned to be a major contributor in helping the state achieve its RPS goals.
The Imperial Valley Renewable Energy Summit offers an exciting, comprehensive program of engaging and informative speakers to discuss the issues that are most relevant to the renewable energy industry. In addition, the Summit includes: a business exposition, ample networking opportunities and a banquet.
Register Now.........
March 9-11, Imperial Palms Hotel & Resort, Holtville, Imperial County, California
The Imperial Valley Renewable Energy Summit offers an exciting, comprehensive program of engaging and informative speakers to discuss the issues that are most relevant to the renewable energy industry. In addition, the Summit includes: a business exposition, ample networking opportunities and a banquet.
Register Now.........
Africa: Strategy to Add 30,000 MW Across Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.
Power Africa Roadmap (USAID)
Today at the Powering Africa Summit, Power Africa partners launched a roadmap to meet President Obama’s goals of adding 30,000 megawatts and 60 million connections across sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.
Building on the nearly $43 billion in commitments that the U.S. government has leveraged from over 120 public and private sector partners, the Power Africa Roadmap outlines how it will use those resources to add 30,000 MW by maximizing value from existing transactions, advancing new opportunities for deal flow, and increasing the efficiency of existing generation. It also highlights how Power Africa will add 60 million connections by scaling up grid roll-out programs and intensifying its Beyond the Grid efforts.
Of particular interest is an article on "Power Africa’s Multi-Donor Geothermal Strategy Coordinates Geothermal Support" on pages 42-43.
View PDF Version
Today at the Powering Africa Summit, Power Africa partners launched a roadmap to meet President Obama’s goals of adding 30,000 megawatts and 60 million connections across sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.
Building on the nearly $43 billion in commitments that the U.S. government has leveraged from over 120 public and private sector partners, the Power Africa Roadmap outlines how it will use those resources to add 30,000 MW by maximizing value from existing transactions, advancing new opportunities for deal flow, and increasing the efficiency of existing generation. It also highlights how Power Africa will add 60 million connections by scaling up grid roll-out programs and intensifying its Beyond the Grid efforts.
Of particular interest is an article on "Power Africa’s Multi-Donor Geothermal Strategy Coordinates Geothermal Support" on pages 42-43.
View PDF Version
Canada: Is Geothermal a Practical Renewable Energy Option? - Talk in Alberta Today
SACPA to discuss geothermal energy (Lethbridge Herald)
There is a great potential for geothermal energy in Western Canada.
Despite that knowledge, Canada still does not have any commercial geothermal power plants. Why?
Jim Byrne, a professor and past chair of geography at the University of Lethbridge, will delve into the subject today, during the regular weekly Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs (SACPA) session, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Country Kitchen Catering.
His presentation is titled “Is Geothermal a Practical Renewable Energy Option?”
Leading-edge researchers have forecast wind, solar and water power will become our primary energy sources. Byrne, whose expertise is global environmental change and water resources, will offer his insight on the possible role(s) for geothermal energy in our energy future.
Kenya: Kengen Gets Loan for Construction of Olkaria 5 Geothermal Facility
KenGen of Kenya Secures JICA Loan for Geothermal-Power Plant (Bloomberg)
Kenya Electricity Generating Co. (KenGen), the country’s biggest power producer, said it will receive a $387.2 million loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency to fund the construction of a geothermal power plant.
The loan agreement will be signed next month, when the company plans to tender for construction of the Olkaria 5 facility, about 70 kilometers (44 miles) northwest of the capital, Nairobi, Chief Executive Officer Albert Mugo said in an e-mailed response to questions Thursday. Construction is expected to begin in the third quarter and power from the plant will be added to the national grid by 2018, it said.
Read More.......
The loan agreement will be signed next month, when the company plans to tender for construction of the Olkaria 5 facility, about 70 kilometers (44 miles) northwest of the capital, Nairobi, Chief Executive Officer Albert Mugo said in an e-mailed response to questions Thursday. Construction is expected to begin in the third quarter and power from the plant will be added to the national grid by 2018, it said.
Read More.......
Montserrat: Drilling for Third Geothermal Well to Begin in March
'Ash to cash': Montserrat gambles future on the volcano that nearly destroyed it (The Guardian)
It’s still a grim sight, but 20 years after the first eruption, Montserratians are beginning to reconsider Soufrière Hills. The nation’s government, elected at the end of 2014, is now betting the country’s future, in part, on the very volcano that almost destroyed it. The eruption is the past, they argue; geothermal energy, sand mining and tourism are the future.
Twenty years on, the island invests in sand mining and geothermal energy to reconcile with the Soufrière Hills eruptions that once buried it in mortal dust
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It’s still a grim sight, but 20 years after the first eruption, Montserratians are beginning to reconsider Soufrière Hills. The nation’s government, elected at the end of 2014, is now betting the country’s future, in part, on the very volcano that almost destroyed it. The eruption is the past, they argue; geothermal energy, sand mining and tourism are the future.
Development of geothermal energy has moved more slowly; local residents recall officials discussing the idea decades ago. Two wells have been drilled since 2013 at a cost of £8.5m, paid for by the UK Department for International Development. The agency is planning to drill a third this year, and local officials expect that project to begin in March.
“The energy is vast,” said David Thomson, managing director of Montserrat’s utilities. “It’s there.”
Montserrat’s government and the Department for International Development are aiming to take Montserrat’s grid to 100% renewable energy by 2020.
Philippines: Basic Energy to Concentrate on Geothermal Development
Basic gives up hydro to focus on geothermal (BusinessWorld Online Edition)
Basic Energy Corp. has decided to give up four hydropower service contracts covering four separate projects, the company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.
The company said the move was in line with a streamlining of its renewable energy projects to focus on geothermal service contracts and other projects in the pipeline.
“Likewise, the board of director approved management’s proposed budget to bring the Mabini Geothermal project to drilling in May this year. The approved budget includes land rights, civil works, and drilling and well testing costs,” the company said.
The four projects are all in Negros Occidental, on the rivers of Puntian, Malogo and Talabaan.
Basic Energy has five geothermal development contracts. One was awarded in 2007 in Mabini, Batangas, while the rest were awarded in 2013. The four projects are in Bataan, Mountain Province and Ifugao, Camarines Sur and Albay, and Sorsogon.
Read More........
The company said the move was in line with a streamlining of its renewable energy projects to focus on geothermal service contracts and other projects in the pipeline.
“Likewise, the board of director approved management’s proposed budget to bring the Mabini Geothermal project to drilling in May this year. The approved budget includes land rights, civil works, and drilling and well testing costs,” the company said.
The four projects are all in Negros Occidental, on the rivers of Puntian, Malogo and Talabaan.
Basic Energy has five geothermal development contracts. One was awarded in 2007 in Mabini, Batangas, while the rest were awarded in 2013. The four projects are in Bataan, Mountain Province and Ifugao, Camarines Sur and Albay, and Sorsogon.
Read More........
USA, California: Workshop to Address Current Barriers Facing Geothermal Power Plant Operation is Today
Workshop: Identifying Research Priorities on Flexibility and Other Operational Needs for Existing Geothermal Power Plants: A Pre-Solicitation Workshop (California Energy Commission)
Thursday, January 28, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. California Energy Commission, 1516 Ninth Street, 1st Floor, Charles Imbrecht Hearing Room, Sacramento, California
California Energy Commission staff will conduct a workshop to gather input from geothermal power stakeholders in order to identify research priorities that will address current barriers facing geothermal power plant operation. The focus will be on flexibility, cost drivers, and other issues. This workshop will help staff refine an upcoming solicitation to help address flexibility and other research and development (R&D) needs for existing geothermal facilities.
The workshop will include a panel discussion followed by comments and questions from the public. A panel of experts from a variety of backgrounds including industry, academia, utilities, and state and local agencies will participate in a moderated discussion aimed at identifying the most pressing research needs. Steve Ponder, Executive Director of the GRC will be one of the panelists. The discussion will allow stakeholders to voice their opinions and suggest research recommendations. Workshop Agenda......
More information.......... Workshop Notice.........
Thursday, January 28, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. California Energy Commission, 1516 Ninth Street, 1st Floor, Charles Imbrecht Hearing Room, Sacramento, California
The workshop will include a panel discussion followed by comments and questions from the public. A panel of experts from a variety of backgrounds including industry, academia, utilities, and state and local agencies will participate in a moderated discussion aimed at identifying the most pressing research needs. Steve Ponder, Executive Director of the GRC will be one of the panelists. The discussion will allow stakeholders to voice their opinions and suggest research recommendations. Workshop Agenda......
More information.......... Workshop Notice.........
USA, Washington D.C.: Discounted Registration GEA Geothermal Energy Showcase Ends Sunday
GEA 2016 US & International Geothermal Showcase
On March 17, 2016 at the Ronald Reagan and International Trade Center in Washington, DC representatives from the U.K., Burundi, Indonesia, Italy, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Mexico, Qatar, Nairobi, Japan, Philippines, Fiji, Indonesia, Costa Rica, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu, and more have registered to join top geothermal energy industry experts, engineers, governmental officials, financiers, and ministry representatives to network, collaborate and discuss:
On March 17, 2016 at the Ronald Reagan and International Trade Center in Washington, DC representatives from the U.K., Burundi, Indonesia, Italy, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Mexico, Qatar, Nairobi, Japan, Philippines, Fiji, Indonesia, Costa Rica, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu, and more have registered to join top geothermal energy industry experts, engineers, governmental officials, financiers, and ministry representatives to network, collaborate and discuss:
- US and international policies supporting geothermal
- Regional market developments: E. Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Indonesia, Philippines, Japan, U.S., Mexico and Europe
- Keys to financing geothermal projects
- Geothermal power in COP2- the role of geothermal in addressing global warming
- New technology developments and future prospects
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
New Zealand: Geothermal Ties With Indonesia Strengthened
Links strengthened with Indonesia (University of Auckland)
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
Links between Indonesia and New Zealand have been strengthened with a new agreement between their leading universities.
The University of Auckland has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Indonesia that formalizes a long-standing relationship between the two universities.
New Zealand has shared geothermal expertise with Indonesia since New Zealand and Indonesian engineers developed Indonesia’s first geothermal energy in the 1970s.
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
More than 160 Indonesian engineers have trained at the University of Auckland’s Geothermal Institute that with UniServices has more than $1 million per year of geothermal exploration and related contracts in Indonesia.
The University also works closely with the Indonesian Ministries of Finance and Higher Education that offer scholarships to enable students to study in New Zealand and then return to Indonesia where they can share their knowledge and contribute back to their local communities.
Tonga: Pacific Island Nation and Papua New Guinea to Promote Geothermal Development
Tonga PM: Geothermal potential in PNG huge (Loop Pacific)
Tonga’s Prime Minister Akilisi Pohiva has noted in his recent brief that Papua New Guinea (PNG) plans to build or upgrade 800 MW of hydro-electricity and more than 500 MW of geothermal generating capacity within the next 10-15 years to provide a reliable and affordable electricity supply.
He said his Government has suggested that both Papua New Guinea and Tonga can establish an understanding in working towards building and encouraging the use of geothermal source of energy in the Pacific.
“In the Pacific region Papua New Guinea and Australia are seeing their geothermal industries expand rapidly while recently Tonga and the World Bank is developing a 10-year roadmap to shift its energy supply to renewable, with geothermal one of the likely options,” he said.
Pohiva said the roadmap is under the implementation phase and World Bank has approved a project that will provide the country with resources supporting the increased absorption of sustainable energy.
Read More.......
He said his Government has suggested that both Papua New Guinea and Tonga can establish an understanding in working towards building and encouraging the use of geothermal source of energy in the Pacific.
“In the Pacific region Papua New Guinea and Australia are seeing their geothermal industries expand rapidly while recently Tonga and the World Bank is developing a 10-year roadmap to shift its energy supply to renewable, with geothermal one of the likely options,” he said.
Pohiva said the roadmap is under the implementation phase and World Bank has approved a project that will provide the country with resources supporting the increased absorption of sustainable energy.
Read More.......
Global: Outlook for the Geothermal Industry in 2016 is “positive” - GRC President
2016 Outlook: Future of Geothermal Industry Becoming Clearer (Renewable Energy World)
With an installed global power capacity of 12.6 GW and growing, the year ahead for geothermal power production expansion has a positive outlook.
With an installed global power capacity of 12.6 GW and growing, the year ahead for geothermal power production expansion has a positive outlook.
The outlook for the geothermal industry in 2016 is “positive,” Geothermal Resources Council President Paul Brophy said at the start of the year.
“While there has been some apprehension about the future of the industry as an industry, where it’s going and what the development rate is like is slowly becoming clearer,” he said.
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| Installed capacity in 2015 worldwide. Credit: Geothermal Power Generation in the World 2010-2014 Update Report, Ruggero Bertani |
The current expectation of global geothermal energy through the end of the decade is that annual capacity installations will bring the existing approximately 12.6 GW to nearly 21.5 GW, with smaller increases in 2016-2017 giving way to larger annual increases from 2018-2020, according to data presented in April by Ruggero Bertani, geothermal business development manager for Enel, during the 2015 World Geothermal Congress.
USA, Utah: Salt Lake City Mayor Wants 50% Renewable Energy by 2020
Biskupski sets stage with State of City Address (KUTV 2News)
Jackie Biskupski has been in office for a few weeks, but showed at her first State of the City Address that she was ready for the challenge of improving Salt Lake City.
The mayor also outlined a clear vision for the future of energy in Utah by having renewable energy in different forms. "We have set a goal in line with the values of city residents to have at least 50 percent of our renewable energy needs met by renewables such as solar, wind and geothermal sources by 2020. We are all in this together and we will work with our energy provider to find ways to achieve these goals."
The GRC has held its Annual Meeting in Salt Lake City in the past and are considering the capital of Utah for a future event.
Read More........
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| Jackie Biskupski, Mayor of Salt Lake City (Courtesy KUTV 2News) |
The mayor also outlined a clear vision for the future of energy in Utah by having renewable energy in different forms. "We have set a goal in line with the values of city residents to have at least 50 percent of our renewable energy needs met by renewables such as solar, wind and geothermal sources by 2020. We are all in this together and we will work with our energy provider to find ways to achieve these goals."
The GRC has held its Annual Meeting in Salt Lake City in the past and are considering the capital of Utah for a future event.
Read More........
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: Barbados Could Import Geothermal Energy from St Vincent
St Vincent energy for Barbados? (Barbados Today)
Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves expects that in three years time St Vincent and the Grenadines will be almost self-sufficient in electricity generated from its geothermal and hydro plants.
And it wants to sell some of that clean energy to Barbados.
Delivering the Faculty of Social Sciences’ 40th anniversary lecture at the Cave Hill Campus last night, the Vincentian leader said that with the help of the Canadian company Emera, which owns the Barbados Light & Power Company, his country hoped to be in a position to feed the energy here through undersea pipes.
“We have, depending on which experts you believe, between 150 and 300 megawatts of geothermal power underground,” said Gonsalves, whose Government has entered a partnership with Reykjavik Geothermal Ltd and Emera.
“They have a US$82 million project where we are going to build a 12 MW geothermal plant, so that by the end of 2018 . . . 80 per cent of our electricity is going to be generated by geothermal and hydro.”
Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis: Geothermal Energy Could Supply Neighboring Islands
Nevis envisages selling power to Antigua & Barbuda (Antigua Observer)
As the neighbouring island of Nevis gets closer to going green through the use of geothermal energy, the authorities on the island said there will be enough energy to export to Antigua & Barbuda and other territories.
Legislators on Nevis have set a December 2017 deadline in which to do so and Premier and Minister of Tourism Mark Brantley said there will also be export potential.
“We have already done the interconnectivity studies; Antigua is a possibility because they have no prospects for geothermal energy,” Brantley told OBSERVER media in a recent interview.
“Anguilla has no prospects there, but we also have neighbouring islands like St Barts, Saba, St Eustatius who have potential, so Nevis can potentially, I think, in a year, become a net exporter of energy.
Read More.......
Legislators on Nevis have set a December 2017 deadline in which to do so and Premier and Minister of Tourism Mark Brantley said there will also be export potential.
“We have already done the interconnectivity studies; Antigua is a possibility because they have no prospects for geothermal energy,” Brantley told OBSERVER media in a recent interview.
“Anguilla has no prospects there, but we also have neighbouring islands like St Barts, Saba, St Eustatius who have potential, so Nevis can potentially, I think, in a year, become a net exporter of energy.
Read More.......
USA, California: Workshop to Address Current Barriers Facing Geothermal Power Plant Operation
Workshop: Identifying Research Priorities on Flexibility and Other Operational Needs for Existing Geothermal Power Plants: A Pre-Solicitation Workshop (California Energy Commission)
Thursday, January 28, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. California Energy Commission, 1516 Ninth Street, 1st Floor, Charles Imbrecht Hearing Room, Sacramento, California
California Energy Commission staff will conduct a workshop to gather input from geothermal power stakeholders in order to identify research priorities that will address current barriers facing geothermal power plant operation. The focus will be on flexibility, cost drivers, and other issues. This workshop will help staff refine an upcoming solicitation to help address flexibility and other research and development (R&D) needs for existing geothermal facilities.
The workshop will include a panel discussion followed by comments and questions from the public. A panel of experts from a variety of backgrounds including industry, academia, utilities, and state and local agencies will participate in a moderated discussion aimed at identifying the most pressing research needs. Steve Ponder, Executive Director of the GRC will be one of the panelists. The discussion will allow stakeholders to voice their opinions and suggest research recommendations. Workshop Agenda......
More information.......... Workshop Notice.........
Thursday, January 28, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. California Energy Commission, 1516 Ninth Street, 1st Floor, Charles Imbrecht Hearing Room, Sacramento, California
The workshop will include a panel discussion followed by comments and questions from the public. A panel of experts from a variety of backgrounds including industry, academia, utilities, and state and local agencies will participate in a moderated discussion aimed at identifying the most pressing research needs. Steve Ponder, Executive Director of the GRC will be one of the panelists. The discussion will allow stakeholders to voice their opinions and suggest research recommendations. Workshop Agenda......
More information.......... Workshop Notice.........
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Philippines: A New Name in Geothermal Energy - Phinma Energy Corp.
Trans-Asia Oil changes name to Phinma Energy (Philstar)
Trans-Asia Oil and Energy Development Corp. is changing its name to Phinma Energy Corp. to reflect the group’s brand in the power business. In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Trans-Asia said its board approved the change in corporate name in a meeting in Jan. 25.
Trans-Asia is the oil and power development arm of holding firm Phinma Corp. “The company, being a part of the Phinma Group, would like to use the Phinma brand in conducting its business,” the firm said.
Its new projects include an integrated 20 MW geothermal project in Sto. Tomas, Batangas with the Yuchengco Group and the Philippine National Oil Co. Other projects in the pipeline include the expansion of the 20 MW geothermal plant under Maibarara Geothermal Inc. (MGI) by another 10 MW. It is expected to be online by the first quarter of 2017.
Canada: Vision for Geothermal Powered Greenhouses Across Southern Alberta
Geothermal greenhouse technology coming to Southern Alberta (Pincher Creek Echo)
Ag Spectra Ltd. presented their ideas for a greener future a couple of weeks ago. Lonnie Mesick is at the helm of Ag Spectra Whole Earth Science and Technology, a company with a vision for a unique type of greenhouse operation called Starfield Centre that utilizes geothermal technologies to produce locally grown produce to serve the communities it’s grown in.
Mesick hopes to see around 70 Starfield Centres across Southern Alberta, but the first one — the flagship — is being built in Magrath, otherwise known as the Garden City.
“The majority of our heat will come from geothermal, which is a low grade geothermal all over Southern Alberta, about 40 to 50 Celsius, and that’s much more than we need,” Mesick explained, “Greenhouses — we keep them around 23 C.”
Read More........
Mesick hopes to see around 70 Starfield Centres across Southern Alberta, but the first one — the flagship — is being built in Magrath, otherwise known as the Garden City.
“The majority of our heat will come from geothermal, which is a low grade geothermal all over Southern Alberta, about 40 to 50 Celsius, and that’s much more than we need,” Mesick explained, “Greenhouses — we keep them around 23 C.”
Read More........
Science & Technology: Choosing the Right Drill Bit
Economics Challenge Drill Bit Manufacturers To Reduce Drilling Costs (OilPro)
Drill bits are relatively inexpensive, compared to other BHA components, but their performance has a significant impact on overall well costs. Today’s difficult economic environment, combined with ever-increasing wellbore complexities, has driven drill bit manufacturers to strive to improve drilling efficiency and bit performance. In most applications, useful life and ROP are the two key barometers that define the economic benefit that an operator will obtain from a PDC or roller cone bit. From an economic perspective, bit longevity determines the number of trips required to change out tools, while ROP affects the number of rig-hours required to TD the well. Together, these two fundamental factors directly impact overall well costs.
Halliburton’s Design at the Customer Interface (DatCI) has streamlined product development by incorporating first-hand operator knowledge into the bit design function, to rapidly solve localized application challenges.
The DatCI process also can be used to optimize roller cone bit performance. In a geothermal application in Indonesia, performance and longevity challenges were causing early bearing failures in 12¼-in. TCI bits due to high temperatures. Engineers worked through the DatCI process, and new optimized pressure contact seals were designed and deployed that are better suited for the environment. The results led to enhanced bit reliability.
Read More........
Halliburton’s Design at the Customer Interface (DatCI) has streamlined product development by incorporating first-hand operator knowledge into the bit design function, to rapidly solve localized application challenges.
The DatCI process also can be used to optimize roller cone bit performance. In a geothermal application in Indonesia, performance and longevity challenges were causing early bearing failures in 12¼-in. TCI bits due to high temperatures. Engineers worked through the DatCI process, and new optimized pressure contact seals were designed and deployed that are better suited for the environment. The results led to enhanced bit reliability.
Read More........
Education: Webinar Includes Design Tips for an Awesome Geothermal Infographic
Geothermal Design Challenge Overview & Design Tips Webinar (Center for Advanced Energy Studies)
February 2 at 12 PM PST
The U.S. Department of Energy Geothermal Technologies Office, in partnership with the Center for Advanced Energy Studies and Idaho National Lab is recruiting students in graphic design, communications, science and/or engineering to bolster their portfolio, resume or college applications by entering the 2016 Geothermal Design Challenge. We are looking for smart and creative student teams to design an infographic that will illustrate how geothermal energy is clean, safe, reliable and sustainable.
Are you interested in learning more about the Geothermal Design Challenge? Join us February 2, 2016 at 12 PM PST for our webinar: Geothermal Design Challenge Overview & Design Tips for an Awesome Infographic. This will be an opportunity to not only provide you with an overview of the challenge and tips for designing an inforgraphic, but also to answer questions you may have about the challenge.
To register click here.
Science & Technology: Good Overview of Geothermal Drilling Techniques
Video: The Geothermal Drilling Process ( BKM Production)
Entrepose Drilling is a French company that specializes in deep onshore drilling (oil & gas, geothermal, water) and geological sampling and coring at great depths. Their head office is located in Maisse near Milly-la-Foret just south of Paris. In recent years they have drilled 12 production and reinjection wells for Aéroports de Paris and the towns of Coulommiers, Lognes, Orly, Paris, Sucy-en-Brie and Champigny-sur-Marne in France.
They have recently posted a good video on the drilling process, in particular in connecting to geothermal resources. The video is a good overview of the technology without being too technical.
Entrepose Drilling is a French company that specializes in deep onshore drilling (oil & gas, geothermal, water) and geological sampling and coring at great depths. Their head office is located in Maisse near Milly-la-Foret just south of Paris. In recent years they have drilled 12 production and reinjection wells for Aéroports de Paris and the towns of Coulommiers, Lognes, Orly, Paris, Sucy-en-Brie and Champigny-sur-Marne in France.
They have recently posted a good video on the drilling process, in particular in connecting to geothermal resources. The video is a good overview of the technology without being too technical.
Germany: Video of Seismic Inducing Trucks in Munich
Deep Geothermal Exploration in Action!
According to the European Geothermal Energy Council (EGEC), the city of Munich has begun a widespread campaign to measure the underground conditions of the city, in order to understand how best to develop geothermal energy for district heating purposes. The research is part of the GRAME project, which is examining the technical, ecological, and economical potential in both new and existing sites in the Molasse Basin.
DMT GmbH & Co. KG based in Essen in western Germany uses vibrator-trucks for seismic exploration. To search for potential geothermal deposits, DMT conducts measurements using different seismic sources. They use a range of vehicles ranging from the high frequency MiniVib with 7000 lbf peak force, the UniVib with 26000 lbf peak force and the heavy duty AHV-IV with an output of 61800 lbf peak force.
According to the European Geothermal Energy Council (EGEC), the city of Munich has begun a widespread campaign to measure the underground conditions of the city, in order to understand how best to develop geothermal energy for district heating purposes. The research is part of the GRAME project, which is examining the technical, ecological, and economical potential in both new and existing sites in the Molasse Basin.
DMT GmbH & Co. KG based in Essen in western Germany uses vibrator-trucks for seismic exploration. To search for potential geothermal deposits, DMT conducts measurements using different seismic sources. They use a range of vehicles ranging from the high frequency MiniVib with 7000 lbf peak force, the UniVib with 26000 lbf peak force and the heavy duty AHV-IV with an output of 61800 lbf peak force.
Science & Technology: Integrated Method for Advanced Geothermal Exploration
EU-funded Project Explores New Geothermal Survey Methodology (Renewable Energy World)
A new methodology is being developed that could maximize the chances of encountering a reservoir during geothermal surveys, according to the European Union's Community Research and Development Information Service (CORDIS).
The new methodology is part of a European Union-funded project called IMAGE – integrated methods for advanced geothermal exploration.
The IMAGE partners took the current process of geothermal exploration beyond gathering of information that points to areas of high porosity and permeability as well as subsurface fault lines. CORDIS said that several geophysical explorations beyond the current state of the art were tested in different regions of Europe. A series of geophysical surveys yielded data on the spatial distribution of critical parameters of subsurface rock formations.
Spain: Geothermal Helps Grow Tropical Fruit
Geothermal system to grow papayas (FreshPlaza)
The papaya's cycle can last between two and four years, and it can last one single campaign. It all depends on the weather. The plantations can last years in tropical areas, but require to be in annual cycles in places with extreme low temperatures. Thus the strategy is to grow the seedlings in greenhouses and transplant them to the field in spring, when plants are already more than half a meter tall.
Except in winter, the thermal integral prevailing in most coastal areas and the intermediate valleys of Valencia is very adequate for this plantation. The occasional frosts can be fatal to the crop, even if it is under plastic coverage, so it is necessary to have heating in the plant's growing phase, just in case there is a frost. Temperatures below six degrees will affect the plants.
That's when Felix Sanjuan thought about using geothermal energy to increase the temperature of the greenhouses and not spend money to acquire other energy sources. Geothermal energy, it turns out, is one of his specialties. It's worth recalling that geothermal energy entails using the higher temperature of the subsoil to heat a fluid (water or air) that is then circulated in a closed circuit thus transferring heat to a compartment.
Read More........
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| (Wikipedia Commons) |
Except in winter, the thermal integral prevailing in most coastal areas and the intermediate valleys of Valencia is very adequate for this plantation. The occasional frosts can be fatal to the crop, even if it is under plastic coverage, so it is necessary to have heating in the plant's growing phase, just in case there is a frost. Temperatures below six degrees will affect the plants.
That's when Felix Sanjuan thought about using geothermal energy to increase the temperature of the greenhouses and not spend money to acquire other energy sources. Geothermal energy, it turns out, is one of his specialties. It's worth recalling that geothermal energy entails using the higher temperature of the subsoil to heat a fluid (water or air) that is then circulated in a closed circuit thus transferring heat to a compartment.
Read More........
Monday, January 25, 2016
Climate Change: Oil Company Sees a Future for Renewable Energy - But Geothermal is "Costly"
The Outlook for Energy: A View to 2040 (ExxonMobil)
Nuclear and renewable energy sources – including bio-energy, hydro, geothermal, wind, and solar – are likely to account for nearly 40 percent of the growth in global energy demand by 2040.
The Outlook for Energy is ExxonMobil's long-term global view of energy demand and supply. Its findings help guide the oil company's long-term investments, and it shares The Outlook to help promote better understanding of the issues shaping the world’s energy future.
Nuclear and renewable energy sources – including bio-energy, hydro, geothermal, wind, and solar – are likely to account for nearly 40 percent of the growth in global energy demand by 2040.
"To keep pace with demand, the world will need to pursue all economic energy sources. In 2040, oil and natural gas will likely be nearly 60 percent of global supplies, while nuclear and renewables will be approaching a 25 percent share.
We can expect that new technologies will continue to create new energy options for our growing world. We don’t know yet what all those technologies will be, but history tells us that the best ones will be affordable, available on a commercial scale, and not overly reliant on government support. Enabling these technologies will require policies that promote innovation, investments and free trade.
One of the constants in life is change. Another is energy. By understanding the trends described in The Outlook, we can better anticipate how much – and which kinds of – energy the world will need in the future. This insight helps guide our investments as we work to help safely meet the world’s need for affordable, reliable energy – the energy that helps create and add value to modern living for people everywhere.
Geothermal will continue to be used in geologically active areas, but growth is expected to be limited by cost."Read More........
Free Excerpt from the GRC Bulletin - the Premier Geothermal Energy Magazine
The Latest News from the Leading Geothermal Energy Magazine (GRC)
The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) has made available the latest GRC Bulletin, the definitive voice of the global geothermal energy industry, published continuously since 1972.
The GRC has generously provided 3 pages from the latest issue for free. However, the full issue is 44 pages!
In this issue, there is a wrap-up of the 39th GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Expo, including a report on the prestigious GRC Awards, GRC Scholarship Winners, Poster Session Awards, Outstanding Technical Session Awards, Photo Contest Winners, and the GEA Geothermal Energy Expo. There is also a photo-essay of the GRC Fieldtrip to McGinness Hills Geothermal Plant, and 12 pages of geothermal news from around the world.
Join the GRC or subscribe to get the complete issue.
A free article from the GRC Bulletin - Volume 45, No. 1 - January/February 2015
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 3 pages from the latest issue for free. However, the full issue is 44 pages!
In this issue, there is a wrap-up of the 39th GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Expo, including a report on the prestigious GRC Awards, GRC Scholarship Winners, Poster Session Awards, Outstanding Technical Session Awards, Photo Contest Winners, and the GEA Geothermal Energy Expo. There is also a photo-essay of the GRC Fieldtrip to McGinness Hills Geothermal Plant, and 12 pages of geothermal news from around the world.
Join the GRC or subscribe to get the complete issue.
Latin America: The Untapped Potential of Geothermal Energy
Energía geotérmica en América Latina, ¿un potencial desaprovechado? (CAF)
With the reduction in demand in the oil market, the geothermal industry could be the main energy supplier
Latin America has enormous geothermal potential accounting for about 15% of worldwide geothermal capacity. Mexico tops the list, one of the countries worldwide with the highest geothermal capacity. Each approach to the development of the entire region differs markedly: Costa Rica and El Salvador want to increase capacity primarily through the public sector; Nicaragua and Guatemala want to use private sector development and are willing to develop and follow models of public-private partnerships.
There is a need in the medium and long term to optimize and diversify energy generation. With the reduction in demand in the oil market, the geothermal industry could be the main beneficiary, explains Juan Garcia, Project Manager of Consejo Nacional de Energía in El Salvador.
Within this context, one of the key issues discussed by experts from CAF - the Development Bank of Central America at the Central America and Caribbean Geothermal Congress (GEOLAC 2015), was whether private companies will partner with governments to seize this opportunity to increase large-scale geothermal power generation in the region .
USA, Idaho: US Geothermal Raises Up to USD 10 Million to Fund Geothermal Projects
U.S. Geothermal Inc. Reestablishes Share Purchase Agreement With Lincoln Park Capital Fund, LLC (Reuters - News Release)
U.S. Geothermal Inc. announced today that it has signed a new purchase agreement with Lincoln Park Capital Fund, LLC (LPC), a Chicago-based institutional investor. It may provide up to $10 million of equity capital over the agreement's 30-month term.
Net proceeds from LPC's investments will be used to cover a portion of the cost of the recent acquisition of the Goldman Sachs ownership interest of the Raft River project, development of our geothermal projects and for general corporate purposes.
"The LPC facility will enable us to raise capital, at market prices, on an as needed basis, which further enhances our liquidity," stated GRC Board Member Dennis Gilles, Chief Executive Officer of U.S. Geothermal Inc.
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Taiwan: National Taiwan Ocean University to Develop Geothermal Plant to Power Campus
National Taiwan Ocean University signs MoU to implement Geothermal power for its campus
Gary Stanley, President of Geothermal Engineering (Taiwan) Limited (卓越地熱能源有限公司) reports that on 21st January, his company and National Taiwan Ocean University (NTOU) signed an agreement to work together on developing Geothermal as a source of electrical power generation in Taiwan.
Academia will play a key role in implementing Geothermal in Taiwan, as they have an in-depth knowledge of Taiwan's geology. This information is paramount to identifying where the best locations are to drill for the underground heat.
As part of this working agreement NTOU plan to have their own Geothermal Power Plant that will provide all the electricity needs for its campus and 8000 students.
Read More.......
Academia will play a key role in implementing Geothermal in Taiwan, as they have an in-depth knowledge of Taiwan's geology. This information is paramount to identifying where the best locations are to drill for the underground heat.
As part of this working agreement NTOU plan to have their own Geothermal Power Plant that will provide all the electricity needs for its campus and 8000 students.
Read More.......
USA, Washington D.C.: Discounted Registration for US & International Geothermal Energy Showcase Ends Sunday
GEA 2016 US & International Geothermal Showcase
On March 17, 2016 at the Ronald Reagan and International Trade Center in Washington, DC representatives from Djibouti, Uganda, Nairobi, the Philippines, Fiji, Costa Rica, Indonesia, Burundi, Kenya, Mexico, Japan, Ethiopia, and more have registered to join top geothermal energy industry experts, engineers, governmental officials, financiers, and ministry representatives to network, collaborate and discuss:
On March 17, 2016 at the Ronald Reagan and International Trade Center in Washington, DC representatives from Djibouti, Uganda, Nairobi, the Philippines, Fiji, Costa Rica, Indonesia, Burundi, Kenya, Mexico, Japan, Ethiopia, and more have registered to join top geothermal energy industry experts, engineers, governmental officials, financiers, and ministry representatives to network, collaborate and discuss:
- US and international policies supporting geothermal
- Regional market developments: E. Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Indonesia, Philippines, Japan, U.S., Mexico and Europe
- Keys to financing geothermal projects
- Geothermal power in COP2- the role of geothermal in addressing global warming
- New technology developments and future prospects
GRC Members rate: $325 before Jan 31, $395 after
Kenya: Geothermal Set to Expand Significantly in the Next 15 years - Report
Kenyan geothermal power growing and set to change the market (Oxford Business Group)
Geothermal energy offers a solution to Kenya’s energy constraints that is both cost-effective and has great development potential, and it is now the largest contributor to total power production in Kenya.
Furthermore, it is set to expand significantly in the next 15 years. The government and private sector have both made considerable progress in rolling out new geothermal projects in recent years, most notably in the Olkaria region, and private sector interest in the development of new geothermal plants remains extremely high, with a host of planned projects.
Read More.......
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
Furthermore, it is set to expand significantly in the next 15 years. The government and private sector have both made considerable progress in rolling out new geothermal projects in recent years, most notably in the Olkaria region, and private sector interest in the development of new geothermal plants remains extremely high, with a host of planned projects.
Read More.......
Iran: Enel Could Invest in Geothermal Power Project
Enel seeks investment in Iran energy (Trend News Agency)
Enel is seeking investment in Iran in the field of geothermal energy.
If reaching an agreement, Enel and Iran’s Renewable Energy Organization will invest in a geothermal-to-electrical power project in northwestern Iran, Tasnim news agency reported January 24.
Iran is already constructing a 50 MW plant in the Meshkin Shahr geothermal zone in Ardabil Province in northwestern Iran, the first in the Middle East. The power plant is expected to come on stream in two years. It is not clear whether Enel will invest in the same project or launch a new one in the area.
Iran’s power plants are mostly hydro or fossil fuel-powered. Renewable energy makes up less than one percent of energy used in Iran. Energy intensity is also much higher in Iran than the global standard.
Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis: 10 MW Geothermal Plant on Target for December 2017
Nevis has a date with geothermal energy (Caribbean360.com)
Legislators on the tiny volcanic island of Nevis in the northern region of the Lesser Antilles say they are on a path to going completely green and have now set a date when they will replace diesel-fired electrical generation with 100 per cent renewable energy.
The island, with a population of 12,000 currently imports 4.2 million gallons of diesel fuel annually, at a cost of USD 12 million, a bill it hopes to cut down significantly. Nevis consumes a maximum of 10 MW of energy annually.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Tourism of Nevis, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of St. Kitts and Nevis Mark Brantley said geothermal energy is something that sets Nevis apart.
“About 10 years ago we discovered that we have geothermal energy here. It has taken a while but we are not at a stage where all the exploration work has been done and we have been assured that geothermal goes live in December of 2017,” Brantley told IPS.
“What that means is that when that plant switches on in December of 2017, fully 100 per cent of Nevis’ electricity will be supplied by renewables. Nowhere else in the world can boast that and so it will make us the greenest place on planet earth. That’s the new tagline – the greenest place on planet earth.”
Read More.........
The island, with a population of 12,000 currently imports 4.2 million gallons of diesel fuel annually, at a cost of USD 12 million, a bill it hopes to cut down significantly. Nevis consumes a maximum of 10 MW of energy annually.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Tourism of Nevis, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of St. Kitts and Nevis Mark Brantley said geothermal energy is something that sets Nevis apart.
“About 10 years ago we discovered that we have geothermal energy here. It has taken a while but we are not at a stage where all the exploration work has been done and we have been assured that geothermal goes live in December of 2017,” Brantley told IPS.
“What that means is that when that plant switches on in December of 2017, fully 100 per cent of Nevis’ electricity will be supplied by renewables. Nowhere else in the world can boast that and so it will make us the greenest place on planet earth. That’s the new tagline – the greenest place on planet earth.”
Read More.........
Ethiopia: Submit Abstracts for Sixth African Rift Geothermal Conference by 15th February
ARGeo-C6 Call for Abstracts (ARGeo)
The Government of Ethiopia takes the pleasure to host and organize the Sixth African Rift Geothermal Conference (ARGeo-C6) in collaboration with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and African Union Commission (AUC).
The conference is sponsored by Icelandic International Development Agency (ICEIDA), KfW, BGR and other support partners. It is being organized under the auspices of the UNEP ARGeo Programme as one of its biennial geothermal conferences.
The conference will be held at UNCC, Addis Ababa- Ethiopia, from 31st Oct to 6th Nov 2016.
Read More......
The conference is sponsored by Icelandic International Development Agency (ICEIDA), KfW, BGR and other support partners. It is being organized under the auspices of the UNEP ARGeo Programme as one of its biennial geothermal conferences.
The conference will be held at UNCC, Addis Ababa- Ethiopia, from 31st Oct to 6th Nov 2016.
- The main conference will be held from 2th – 4th November, 2016.
- Parallel Geothermal Pre-Conference Short Courses will be held on 31st October to 1st November 2016.
- Post conference field trips to Ethiopian geothermal prospects will be held on 5-6 November 2016.
Read More......
Friday, January 22, 2016
USA: EGS is a Clean Energy Technology of Tomorrow
DOE Assistant Secretary Boosts Enhanced Geothermal System Technology (SXSW Eco)
Assistant Secretary David Danielson of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the world’s largest government funding agency focused on clean energy innovation, describes the unprecedented progress we have made in clean energy in recent years and how the Department of Energy and America’s top innovators are working together to reinvent the traditional energy innovation model to accelerate the arrival of the global clean energy economy—faster than anyone ever thought possible.
He talks about the new innovation models, disruptive new technologies, and world-class American technology pioneers who are delivering the clean energy technologies of tomorrow, today including EGS or Enhanced Geothermal Systems. (Start listening at 9:50 into David's talk)
Listen more......(Start listening at 9:50)
Assistant Secretary David Danielson of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the world’s largest government funding agency focused on clean energy innovation, describes the unprecedented progress we have made in clean energy in recent years and how the Department of Energy and America’s top innovators are working together to reinvent the traditional energy innovation model to accelerate the arrival of the global clean energy economy—faster than anyone ever thought possible.
He talks about the new innovation models, disruptive new technologies, and world-class American technology pioneers who are delivering the clean energy technologies of tomorrow, today including EGS or Enhanced Geothermal Systems. (Start listening at 9:50 into David's talk)
Listen more......(Start listening at 9:50)
El Salvador: Geothermal Energy to Provide 40% of Electricity by 2019
El Salvador expects to increase the share of geothermal energy by 15% (El Economista)
According to the Secretary of Communications of the Salvadoran Presidency, the government expects to increase the contribution of geothermal to the country’s electricity mix by 15%, to reach 40% by 2019.
(Thanks to GRC Member Marcelo Lippmann, Staff Scientist (retired) at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory for the submission.)
Read More......(in Spanish)
(Thanks to GRC Member Marcelo Lippmann, Staff Scientist (retired) at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory for the submission.)
Kenya: KenGen Announces Financing Plans for 180 MW Olkaria VI Geothermal Power Plant
Kenya Electricity Generating to Invest USD650 Million in Olkaria VI Geothermal Power Plant (4 Traders)
Kenya Electricity Generating Co. (KenGen), a power generation, distribution, and transmission company, has agreed to invest USD 650 million in the construction and development of Olkaria VI geothermal power plant in Kenya. The total installed capacity of the power plant will be 180 MW.
The investment per MW will be USD 3.61 million. The company may partner with US, Chinese or Indian investors to finance and develop geothermal power plants, including the Olkaria VI power plant. The company will probably take a minority stake in Olkaria VI geothermal power plant. The construction of the power plant is expected to start in 2018.
Read More.........
The investment per MW will be USD 3.61 million. The company may partner with US, Chinese or Indian investors to finance and develop geothermal power plants, including the Olkaria VI power plant. The company will probably take a minority stake in Olkaria VI geothermal power plant. The construction of the power plant is expected to start in 2018.
Read More.........
Italy: Geothermal Energy Production Grew 4.5% in 2015
Renewables cover 28.5% of Italy's power demand in 2015 (SeeNews Renewables)
Italy's renewable power plants produced enough power in 2015 to meet about 28.5% of the country’s electricity demand, according to data by power grid operator Terna SpA.
Excluding hydropower, the share of wind, solar and geothermal energy sources was 14.3%. Meanwhile, thermal power plants produced 56.8% of Italy’s power.
In detail, net national production (270.7 billion kWh) increased by 0.6% compared to 2014. Geothermal (+4.5%) energy production showed good growth.
Read More.......
Excluding hydropower, the share of wind, solar and geothermal energy sources was 14.3%. Meanwhile, thermal power plants produced 56.8% of Italy’s power.
In detail, net national production (270.7 billion kWh) increased by 0.6% compared to 2014. Geothermal (+4.5%) energy production showed good growth.
Read More.......
Science & Technology: Earth Battery Uses CO2 Pressurized Geothermal Process
Meet The Carbon Dioxide Battery (Forbes)
Carbon dioxide goes in. Heat comes out.
That is the basic idea behind the Earth Battery, a novel, grid-scale energy storage concept from GRC member Thomas Buscheck and a team of researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Carbon dioxide captured from factories or power plants would be pressurized until it enters a ‘supercritical’ state (something between a liquid and a gas.). It would then get injected into underground wells to a depth of 3,000 to 5,000 feet. The additional pressure caused by CO2 would force hot subterranean brines to the surface: The 120 to 200 degree Celsius fluid could then be retrieved on command for process heat, to balance renewables or run turbines.
Carbon dioxide goes in. Heat comes out.
That is the basic idea behind the Earth Battery, a novel, grid-scale energy storage concept from GRC member Thomas Buscheck and a team of researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Carbon dioxide captured from factories or power plants would be pressurized until it enters a ‘supercritical’ state (something between a liquid and a gas.). It would then get injected into underground wells to a depth of 3,000 to 5,000 feet. The additional pressure caused by CO2 would force hot subterranean brines to the surface: The 120 to 200 degree Celsius fluid could then be retrieved on command for process heat, to balance renewables or run turbines.
One of the advantages of the Earth Battery is that it can leverage established equipment and know-how from the geothermal industry. The sedimentary formations required for the system are also fairly common: no cavernous salt domes or other complex geological features required. Power plants are far more numerous than oil drilling operations. A single Earth Battery could be linked with multiple solar or wind farms to balance intermittent renewables or supplement the operation of a nuclear or gas plant. Read More........
More information........ Previous Article in Global Geothermal News........
More information........ Previous Article in Global Geothermal News........
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Caribbean: Bank Chief Touts Geothermal Energy for Region
Caribbean Development Bank Believes Geothermal is The Key to Cheaper Electricity in The Region (Virgin Islands Free Press)
In a small meeting room, tucked away from the faux waterfalls of the Paris Regency Hyatt hotel’s immaculate lobby, Warren Smith, a soft-spoken Jamaican economist and the newly re-elected president of the Caribbean Development Bank, explained how it all might work.
“The trick,” Smith said, “is to take a regional approach.” Electricity in the Caribbean region costs three to four times as much as in the United States. Caribbean island economies are highly vulnerable to the “vagaries of the international petroleum market,” Smith said, and the boom and bust cycles that characterize those markets spell instability and risk for island states hampered by isolation and size constraints.
But the region contains untapped potential. In the eastern Caribbean, volcanic islands contain hidden wells of geothermal heat, which, if tapped and channeled through power plants, could provide the kind of stable base load power that wind and solar energy typically cannot.
Read More........
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| CDB President Warren Smith |
“The trick,” Smith said, “is to take a regional approach.” Electricity in the Caribbean region costs three to four times as much as in the United States. Caribbean island economies are highly vulnerable to the “vagaries of the international petroleum market,” Smith said, and the boom and bust cycles that characterize those markets spell instability and risk for island states hampered by isolation and size constraints.
But the region contains untapped potential. In the eastern Caribbean, volcanic islands contain hidden wells of geothermal heat, which, if tapped and channeled through power plants, could provide the kind of stable base load power that wind and solar energy typically cannot.
Read More........
USA, Nevada: GRC Member Helps Identify Possible Lithium Source in Geothermal Reservoir
Dajin Completes Structural Study of Teels Marsh, Nevada (News Release)
Dajin Resources Corp. reports that GRC Member Dr. Mark Coolbaugh has completed a preliminary structural study on Teels Marsh.
Dajin retained the services of Reno, Nevada-based geothermal and mineral exploration geologist, Dr. Mark Coolbaugh, to carry out a structural and stratigraphic analysis of Teels Marsh. Dr. Coolbaugh used gravity, magnetic and geochemical data already collected, to develop a new structural model of the basin. The structural study also identified drill targets to test favorable aquifers that may contain Lithium-rich brines.
The analysis reveals that Teels Marsh has a large catchment basin 313 square miles (812 square kilometers) in area and is bounded by faults. The basin is also tectonically active. Thick accumulations of ash deposits known as "Bishop Tuff" are likely to occur beneath the marsh as the marsh occupies a closed basin and is located east of nearby Mono Lake and Long Valley Caldera (source of the Bishop Tuff), and other ash producing volcanic centers. These ash layers have proven to be the most productive brine sources in Clayton Valley, where the only North American lithium brine deposit is being mined by Rockwood Lithium Inc.
Education: Global Geothermal Scholarships Available
2016 Geothermal Resources Council Scholarships Announced
Total of $15,000 in educational awards to be given to six students in the global geothermal energy community
The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC), a non-profit educational association dedicated to the promotion of geothermal energy and associated technologies around the world, is pleased to announce the availability of the 2016 GRC Scholarship Awards.
To qualify for one of these awards a student must be a GRC member (student memberships are only $5 per year) as well as be a student in an accredited academic institution. Selection of recipients will be based upon a variety of factors, including the individual’s academic record, student activities, geothermal industry experience, and career goals.
The following awards are available:
For application instructions and other details see the announcement on the GRC website at: www.geothermal.org/students.html
Please direct questions regarding the scholarship awards to: Brian Schmidt, bschmidt@geothermal.org or 530-758-2360, ext. 107
Total of $15,000 in educational awards to be given to six students in the global geothermal energy community
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| The 2015 GRC Scholarship Winners |
To qualify for one of these awards a student must be a GRC member (student memberships are only $5 per year) as well as be a student in an accredited academic institution. Selection of recipients will be based upon a variety of factors, including the individual’s academic record, student activities, geothermal industry experience, and career goals.
The following awards are available:
- Two (2) GRC Undergraduate Scholarship Awards of $1,500 – to be eligible for one of these awards, the candidate must be a third or fourth year undergraduate majoring in engineering or geosciences at the time of the award (Fall 2016).
- Three (3) GRC Graduate Scholarship Awards of $2,500 – to be eligible for one of these awards, the candidate must be enrolled in a graduate-level program in engineering or geosciences at the time of the award (Fall 2016).
- One (1) Student Geothermal Project Award of $4,500 – selection of recipient will be based primarily upon the creation and description of a geothermal-focused project, though other factors such as the individual’s academic record, student activities, geothermal industry experience, and career goals will factor into the determination as well. The project can represent a variety of academic subjects, including, but not limited to, geosciences, engineering, and economics. The primary requirement is that the project be focused on some aspect of geothermal power production, geothermal direct use applications or geothermal heat pumps.
For application instructions and other details see the announcement on the GRC website at: www.geothermal.org/students.html
Please direct questions regarding the scholarship awards to: Brian Schmidt, bschmidt@geothermal.org or 530-758-2360, ext. 107
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Indonesia: Field Trip After ITB International Geothermal Workshop
IIGW 2016 - Geology and Geothermal Geochemistry Field Camp (ITB)
April 1st, Bandung West Java, Indonesia
Registration is open for the Geothermal Field Camp being held on April 1st 2016. This program provides opportunity for participants to be introduced to geothermal field works, characterization of geothermal systems and basic concepts of geothermal exploration. This year, the geothermal field camp will be exercised in the incredible geological settings and features of Tangkuban Perahu Volcano its surrounding areas (Domas Crater and Ratu Crater).
We will accept up to 15 applications until all the positions are filled. This geothermal field camp is intended for students, engineers, scientists, academicians or any other person/parties who are interested in geothermal exploration.
The field camp courses are taught by Prof. Tobias Fischer from New Mexico University, USA, and the lecturers and graduate students of the ITB Geothermal Magister Degree Program: Instructor to participant ratios is ~ 4:1.
The trip leaves on the final day of the 5th ITB International Geothermal Workshop, March 28 - April 1.
Science & Technology: Project to Drill 16,000 Foot Borehole in Crystalline Rock Could Help Geothermal Energy Research
DOE drilling project studies ND rock 16,000 feet down (The Bakken magazine)
Geothermal energy development will be a potential application
Two entities with a great deal of experience in the Bakken will be working with the Battelle laboratories on a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) drilling project in North Dakota that’s not looking for oil.
Battelle’s partners on the DOE research project near Rugby, North Dakota, are the University of North Dakota (UND) Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC), Schlumberger and Solexperts, a Swiss geologic testing company. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Battelle is the world’s largest nonprofit research and development organization.
Rod Osborne, Battelle’s energy business line manager, said that although some of the drilling done by Schlumberger will be similar to that in the Bakken for oil and gas, its purpose is to gather data on crystalline bedrock formations 16,000 feet below the surface. DOE will study their suitability for nuclear waste storage.
Geothermal energy development will be another potential application, according to Battelle.
Read More..........
Geothermal energy development will be a potential application
Battelle’s partners on the DOE research project near Rugby, North Dakota, are the University of North Dakota (UND) Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC), Schlumberger and Solexperts, a Swiss geologic testing company. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Battelle is the world’s largest nonprofit research and development organization.
Rod Osborne, Battelle’s energy business line manager, said that although some of the drilling done by Schlumberger will be similar to that in the Bakken for oil and gas, its purpose is to gather data on crystalline bedrock formations 16,000 feet below the surface. DOE will study their suitability for nuclear waste storage.
Geothermal energy development will be another potential application, according to Battelle.
Read More..........
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