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.
Friday, March 29, 2019
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.
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.
United Kingdom: Good Explanation of Drilling Trajectories at United Downs Deep Geothermal Power Project
United Downs Deep Geothermal Power Project - Update (UDDGP)
Once the 9 5/8” casing is cemented in place, we will reconfigure the wellhead and BOP and continue drilling, this time at a diameter of 8 ½”. Drilling will continue for another 1,000m approximately, but this will depend on exactly where we intersect the target fault structure. As soon as we are sure we have drilled through it, we will stop, run further geophysical logs and then conduct a short production test. That will complete the activity on UD-1, so then we will move the rig 8m along the site and start drilling UD-2. The slower than expected drilling speeds means that we are behind our original schedule and we now expect to finish UD-2 at the end of June.
A word about depth…
Now that we are getting towards the business end of our first well, we thought it would be worthwhile explaining something about how we report depths.
We always talk about the wells being 2,500m and 4,500m deep but actually that’s a kind of shorthand. They are the target ‘true vertical depths’ (TVD) at which we plan to intersect the eastern edge of the Porthtowan Fault Zone. The wells will continue through the fault zone and therefore finish up being quite a bit deeper.
There is also a difference between TVD and ‘measured depth’ (MD) which is the drilled length of the wells. They are not the same thing because the wells aren’t vertical. All our progress reporting is based on MD. As we get deeper, and the wells get further away from being vertical, there will be an increasing difference between MD and TVD. The TVD will always be less than MD.
The exact final depth of UD-1 will depend on where we hit the fault and how thick it turns out to be but we expect the well to end up with a measured depth of about 5,500m and a true vertical depth of about 5,300m.
Read More.........
From the Global Geothermal News archives:
Once the 9 5/8” casing is cemented in place, we will reconfigure the wellhead and BOP and continue drilling, this time at a diameter of 8 ½”. Drilling will continue for another 1,000m approximately, but this will depend on exactly where we intersect the target fault structure. As soon as we are sure we have drilled through it, we will stop, run further geophysical logs and then conduct a short production test. That will complete the activity on UD-1, so then we will move the rig 8m along the site and start drilling UD-2. The slower than expected drilling speeds means that we are behind our original schedule and we now expect to finish UD-2 at the end of June.
A word about depth…
We always talk about the wells being 2,500m and 4,500m deep but actually that’s a kind of shorthand. They are the target ‘true vertical depths’ (TVD) at which we plan to intersect the eastern edge of the Porthtowan Fault Zone. The wells will continue through the fault zone and therefore finish up being quite a bit deeper.
There is also a difference between TVD and ‘measured depth’ (MD) which is the drilled length of the wells. They are not the same thing because the wells aren’t vertical. All our progress reporting is based on MD. As we get deeper, and the wells get further away from being vertical, there will be an increasing difference between MD and TVD. The TVD will always be less than MD.
The exact final depth of UD-1 will depend on where we hit the fault and how thick it turns out to be but we expect the well to end up with a measured depth of about 5,500m and a true vertical depth of about 5,300m.
Read More.........
From the Global Geothermal News archives:
- Thursday, January 17, 2019 - United Kingdom: First Well at United Downs Deep Geothermal Power Project to be Production Well
- Tuesday, January 8, 2019 - United Kingdom: Video Overview of United Downs Deep Geothermal Project
- Tuesday, November 6, 2018 - United Kingdom: Drilling Starts This Week at United Downs Geothermal Power Plant
Science & Technology: Increasing the Heat Extraction Efficiency of Enhanced Geothermal Systems
Effect of different flow schemes on heat recovery from Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) (Science Direct)
By Pranay Asai, Palash Panja, John McLennan and Milind Deo. Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Utah, United States
Operational optimization is the key to maximize the heat extraction efficiency of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS). Injection/production flowrate is one of the operational parameters that can be easily manipulated to produce desired amount of energy.
In this study, the effect of different flow schemes on the rate of heat production is analyzed over a period of 30 years. Seven flow schemes (four continuous functions namely constant flow, linear flow, exponential flow, mirror exponential flow, and three step functions with step sizes of six months, three years and ten years) developed on the basis of mathematical functions were examined.
A doublet EGS model with a single fracture was simulated using a commercial thermal reservoir simulator. The reservoir and well data were obtained from the FORGE (Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy) site at Milford Utah. The results were analyzed on the basis of their temperature decline curves for the produced water and the total amount of heat extracted over the entire period.
The exponential flow scheme is the optimum case considering the rise in energy demand over the next 30 years. The amount of heat extracted per unit volume of water decreases with increase in total water volume circulated.
Read More..........
Energy, Volume 175, 15 May 2019, Pages 667-676 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2019.03.124
By Pranay Asai, Palash Panja, John McLennan and Milind Deo. Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Utah, United States
In this study, the effect of different flow schemes on the rate of heat production is analyzed over a period of 30 years. Seven flow schemes (four continuous functions namely constant flow, linear flow, exponential flow, mirror exponential flow, and three step functions with step sizes of six months, three years and ten years) developed on the basis of mathematical functions were examined.
A doublet EGS model with a single fracture was simulated using a commercial thermal reservoir simulator. The reservoir and well data were obtained from the FORGE (Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy) site at Milford Utah. The results were analyzed on the basis of their temperature decline curves for the produced water and the total amount of heat extracted over the entire period.
The exponential flow scheme is the optimum case considering the rise in energy demand over the next 30 years. The amount of heat extracted per unit volume of water decreases with increase in total water volume circulated.
Read More..........
Energy, Volume 175, 15 May 2019, Pages 667-676 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2019.03.124
New Zealand: Employment Opportunity as Geothermal Reservoir Engineer in Rotorua
Vacancy - Senior Reservoir Engineer (Mercury)
As Senior Reservoir Engineer, based in Rotorua, you'll be responsible for developing, implementing and reviewing field strategies and reservoir management plans, leading well and reservoir performance monitoring programs, and mentoring younger reservoir engineers.
This is a great opportunity to join Mercury where you will be called upon as our "in-house" technical expert to provide comprehensive, in-depth reservoir engineering analysis and technical leadership to the business.
Other responsibilities will include:
This is a great opportunity to join Mercury where you will be called upon as our "in-house" technical expert to provide comprehensive, in-depth reservoir engineering analysis and technical leadership to the business.
Other responsibilities will include:
- Working with Engineers and Geoscientists within the Geothermal Technical Resources and Field management team to ensure most appropriate resources are employed to meet the overall Geothermal Business Plan
- Reservoir monitoring, modelling and management
- Building technical and business capabilities within the team including preparing and delivering training and mentoring of staff
- Ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation and company policies are being adhered to
Germany: Pump Tests Commence at 50 MWth Munich Geothermal District Heating Project
Pump tests commence following the completion of the third well of the Schäftlarnstraße project (Erdwerk GmbH)
The pump tests for the Well Th3 commenced on 26.02.3019, following the successful drilling of the third of six wells for the SWM geothermal project Schäftlarnstraße (Munich).
This marks the halfway point of one of the biggest projects of its kind in Europe.
The results of the previous 2 wells have been very promising. The final geothermal power plant shall have a capacity of 50 MWth and supply heat for a least 80,000 residence of the Sendling district in Munich.
Read More........
From Global Geothermal News archives:
The pump tests for the Well Th3 commenced on 26.02.3019, following the successful drilling of the third of six wells for the SWM geothermal project Schäftlarnstraße (Munich).
This marks the halfway point of one of the biggest projects of its kind in Europe.
The results of the previous 2 wells have been very promising. The final geothermal power plant shall have a capacity of 50 MWth and supply heat for a least 80,000 residence of the Sendling district in Munich.
Read More........
From Global Geothermal News archives:
- Monday, March 25, 2019 - Germany: Third Well Drilled at Munich Geothermal District Heating Project
- Friday, January 25, 2019 - Germany: Good Progress at 50 MWth Munich Geothermal District Heating Project
- Friday, December 14, 2018 - Germany: Second Well Successfully Drilled at Munich Geothermal District Heating Project
- Thursday, July 26, 2018 - Germany: Successful Drilling Produces 100 Degrees C from 2,800 Meters at Munich Geothermal District Heating Project
New Zealand: Geothermal Energy Helps to Increase Renewable Share of generation
New Zealand Energy Quarterly (Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment)
Despite the increase in coal-fired generation, the overall renewable share of generation rose from 81.9 per cent in the December 2017 quarter to 84.5 per cent in the December 2018. This was largely as a result of higher geothermal generation. In 2018 geothermal energy generated 7,377 GWh of electricity.
Geothermal generation has, for a long time, been an integral part of New Zealand’s electricity landscape. It began over 55 years ago with the opening of the Wairakei power station in November 1958. Most of New Zealand’s installed capacity is situated in the Taupo Volcanic Zone. Geothermal generation is around 15% of New Zealand’s electricity generation. Energy Quarterly: 2018 Q4 report [PDF, 82 KB]
Read More.........
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
Geothermal generation has, for a long time, been an integral part of New Zealand’s electricity landscape. It began over 55 years ago with the opening of the Wairakei power station in November 1958. Most of New Zealand’s installed capacity is situated in the Taupo Volcanic Zone. Geothermal generation is around 15% of New Zealand’s electricity generation. Energy Quarterly: 2018 Q4 report [PDF, 82 KB]
Read More.........
USA, Utah: “The Best Hippie Hot Springs in the West”
How one man turned a geothermal wonder into a steamy, post-Woodstock paradise (Roadtrippers )
The '70s are alive and groovy as ever at Mystic Hot Springs in Utah
Back in the 1800s, long before hordes of VW bus owners set off on adventures of self-discovery, this geothermally rich destination was already bringing the heat. Guests from all over the valley and beyond would travel by horse and buggy to dance and soak all through the night. Earlier still, nomadic bands from the Ute, Shoshone, and Paiute tribes would make use of the warm grounds near the springs, setting up their camps here as they passed through.
The bathtubs were some of the first additions Mike made when he acquired the property in 1996—but they’re still relatively new, considering that the hot springs first formed out of geologic events dating back millennia.
The unique reddish-brown travertine mounds that can be seen throughout the hot springs, most notably around the tubs, are the results of minerals that have built up after being deposited inch by inch via the constant flow of water.
Water comes out of the ground at a piping hot 168 degrees Fahrenheit (75.5 degrees celsius) and a rate of 200 gallons per minute. The water eventually cools as it works it way through a network of channels and cascades into the pools and tubs. The minerals carried in this water—calcium carbonate, magnesium, and iron among them—are celebrated for their healing and relaxation properties, all part of the draw that’s been enticing visitors for centuries.
Thursday, March 28, 2019
USA: Opportunity for Funding of Research on Subsurface Stress and Lost Circulation in Geothermal Drilling
Energy Department Announces $7 Million for Research on Subsurface Stress and Lost Circulation in Geothermal Drilling (EERE/GTO)
Applicants must first submit a concept paper by April 26, 2019 at 5 p.m. EST to be eligible to submit a full application.
Today, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced up to $7 million toward the research and development (R&D) of innovative subsurface geothermal technologies. DOE’s Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO) will fund projects that will focus on improving geothermal drilling efficiency and cost reduction by addressing two of the most significant barriers: state of stress and lost circulation events.
The subsurface state of stress dictates fracture networks that provide the required permeability for a geothermal reservoir, so an increased understanding of the stress state is valuable for siting wells during geothermal energy development. Lost circulation events (LCEs) can occur during drilling when fluids pumped from the rig through downhole drilling equipment are “lost” and flow into geological formations instead of returning to the surface to complete a circulation path. Researching and developing innovative technologies that tackle state of stress and LCEs issues will reduce geothermal exploration and drilling costs, making geothermal a more viable and accessible energy source.
Currently, the United States is the world leader in installed geothermal capacity with more than 3.8 gigawatts online. One key to unlocking domestic geothermal potential is to reduce the cost of drilling operations, which can account for up to 50% of geothermal exploration and development costs.
GTO plans to provide funding in two topic areas:
Applicants must first submit a concept paper by April 26, 2019 at 5 p.m. EST to be eligible to submit a full application.
The subsurface state of stress dictates fracture networks that provide the required permeability for a geothermal reservoir, so an increased understanding of the stress state is valuable for siting wells during geothermal energy development. Lost circulation events (LCEs) can occur during drilling when fluids pumped from the rig through downhole drilling equipment are “lost” and flow into geological formations instead of returning to the surface to complete a circulation path. Researching and developing innovative technologies that tackle state of stress and LCEs issues will reduce geothermal exploration and drilling costs, making geothermal a more viable and accessible energy source.
Currently, the United States is the world leader in installed geothermal capacity with more than 3.8 gigawatts online. One key to unlocking domestic geothermal potential is to reduce the cost of drilling operations, which can account for up to 50% of geothermal exploration and development costs.
GTO plans to provide funding in two topic areas:
- Topic 1: Development of technologies for characterizing, monitoring, and predicting state of stress for geothermal exploration and drilling; and
- Topic 2: Development of new technologies for predicting and mitigating lost circulation events in geothermal drilling.
- DE-FOA-0002083 Subsurface FAQs
- DE-FOA-0002083 Subsurface Stress and Loss Circulation in Geothermal Drilling
Indonesia: Geothermal Energy Important for Economy of East Java
Wagub Jatim: Geothermal Energi Terbarukan Paling Relevan
- Deputy Governor of East Java: Geothermal Most Relevant Renewable Energy (Cakrawala News)
- Deputy Governor of East Java: Geothermal Most Relevant Renewable Energy (Cakrawala News)
Energi panas bumi (energi geothermal) adalah sumber energi yang relatif ramah lingkungan karena berasal dari panas dalam bumi, sehingga dianggap paling relevan menjadi energi terbarukan.
Hal ini disampaikan Wakil Gubernur (Wagub) Jawa Timur, Emil Elestianto Dardak, saat Instrumentation Talk Show, bertema Pengembangan Teknologi Energi Terbarukan dalam rangka menjaga ketahanan energi nasional (Making Indonesia 4.0) di Ruang Sidang Utama Gedung Rektorat ITS, Minggu (24/3).
(From Google Translate) Geothermal energy is an energy source that is relatively environmentally friendly because it comes from the earth's heat, so it is considered the most relevant to renewable energy.
This was conveyed by Deputy Governor of East Java, Emil Elestianto Dardak, during the Talk Show segment, titled Development of Renewable Energy Technology in order to maintain national energy security (Making Indonesia 4.0) in the Main Session Room of the ITS Rectorate Building, Sunday (24/3) .
Finance: Investment Management Company Raises More Funds for Renewable Energy
Meridiam announces the closing of the reopening of its Africa fund at €546 million, 2.5 times its initial size (News Release)
European investment management company Meridiam announced today the closing of the reopening of its Meridiam Infrastructure Africa Fund (MIAF) for a total amount of €546 million, above its initial target of €510 million. Launched in 2015, for an initial amount of €207 million, the initial commitment has already been fully invested two years before the end of the investment period. At the end of this closing, it is now 2.5 times bigger than at the beginning.
This fund has already financed and developed 14 major projects for Africa amounting to more than EUR 3 billion, including the Tulu Moye geothermal power plant. With a final capacity of 500 MW, it is the first Independent Power Producer (IPP) in Ethiopia.
Finance: Corporate Giants Band Together to Buy Renewable Energy
Google, GM and other corporate giants form alliance to create a boom in US clean energy (CNBC)
Some of the nation's top tech firms, manufacturers and consumer companies are banding together to create a boom in renewable energy purchases throughout corporate America.
Some of the nation's top tech firms, manufacturers and consumer companies are banding together to create a boom in renewable energy purchases throughout corporate America.
The corporate giants and their nonprofit partners on Thursday launched the Renewable Energy Buyers Alliance (REBA), a trade organization that will help companies take advantage of new ways to purchase clean energy. The goal is to support construction of new green power projects by striking renewable energy deals pioneered by companies like Google-parent Alphabet, General Motors and Walmart in recent years.
Under the banner of REBA, these pioneers aim to empower tens of thousands of companies to buy renewable energy in the coming years — increasing the market from roughly 5,000 companies today.
Through last year, companies signed enough corporate renewable deals to support nearly 16 gigawatts of new renewable energy capacity in the U.S. REBA aims to accelerate that activity and grow the market to 60 gigawatts by 2025.
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Science & Technology: Model for Optimizing Production from a Geothermal Two-Phase Reservoir
Study of Production-Injection Strategies for Sustainable Production In Geothermal Reservoir Two-Phase by Numerical Simulation (ITB)
by Nenny Miryani Saptadji and Heru Berian Pratama. Geothermal Engineering Study Program, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia.
The main issue in the management of the two-phase liquid-dominated geothermal field is a rapid pressure decline in the reservoir which affects steam supply to the power plant.
The changes of reservoir characteristic due to mass and heat extraction from the reservoir can be learned through a numerical simulation under numerous strategies production-injection. The model developed on liquid-dominated geothermal fields are assessed with various scenarios of production strategies (steam cap, brine reservoir, and combination) and injection strategies (deep, shallow, centered and dispersed), for generation of 110 MW and 220 MW using separated steam cycle.
A full factorial scenario of 32 production-injection strategies has been successfully carried out. The results show a relatively low decrease in reservoir pressure and steam flow rate for a production strategy combined with the steam cap and brine reservoir, with deep and dispersed injection strategy.
From the simulation, it can be concluded that the strategy for sustainable production is a production of 25% from steam cap and 75% from brine reservoir, dispersed and deep reinjection with 9 make-up wells from the steam cap. The implementation of production-injection strategy needs to be planned right from the beginning of exploitation, therefore, the strategy can adapt to changes in reservoir characteristics.
Read More.........
by Nenny Miryani Saptadji and Heru Berian Pratama. Geothermal Engineering Study Program, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia.
The main issue in the management of the two-phase liquid-dominated geothermal field is a rapid pressure decline in the reservoir which affects steam supply to the power plant.
The changes of reservoir characteristic due to mass and heat extraction from the reservoir can be learned through a numerical simulation under numerous strategies production-injection. The model developed on liquid-dominated geothermal fields are assessed with various scenarios of production strategies (steam cap, brine reservoir, and combination) and injection strategies (deep, shallow, centered and dispersed), for generation of 110 MW and 220 MW using separated steam cycle.
A full factorial scenario of 32 production-injection strategies has been successfully carried out. The results show a relatively low decrease in reservoir pressure and steam flow rate for a production strategy combined with the steam cap and brine reservoir, with deep and dispersed injection strategy.
From the simulation, it can be concluded that the strategy for sustainable production is a production of 25% from steam cap and 75% from brine reservoir, dispersed and deep reinjection with 9 make-up wells from the steam cap. The implementation of production-injection strategy needs to be planned right from the beginning of exploitation, therefore, the strategy can adapt to changes in reservoir characteristics.
Read More.........
Japan: 7 MW Iwate Geothermal Power Plant Starts Operations
7.4 MW Geothermal Power Plant Begins Operation in Iwate (Nikkei Business)
Iwate Chinetsu KK (Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture) built a geothermal power plant with a rated output of 7.499 MW in Matsuo-hachimantai District, Iwate Prefecture, Japan, and started operation of the plant Jan 29, 2019.
This is the first time in 22 years that a geothermal power plant with an output higher than 7 MW has begun operation in Japan.
Electricity generated at the plant is sold to Tohoku-Electric Power Co Inc at a price of ¥40/kWh based on the feed-in tariff (FIT) scheme. JFE Engineering Corp provided construction services for the plant.
From the Global Geothermal News archives:
- Friday, March 3, 2017 - Japan: More Details of Guarantee of Liabilities for Iwate Geothermal Power Project
- Monday, February 27, 2017 - Japan: Liability Guarantee Allows 7 MW Iwate Geothermal Power to Proceed
- Thursday, July 30, 2015 - Japan: JOGMEC to Invest in 7 MW Iwate Geothermal Exploration Project
- Wednesday, May 22, 2013 - Japan: JFE Venture Starts Geothermal Test Drilling in Northern Japan
Finance: Batteries Co-located with Solar or Wind Projects are Starting to be Competitive
Battery Power’s Latest Plunge in Costs Threatens Coal, Gas (BNEF)
Two technologies that were immature and expensive only a few years ago but are now at the center of the unfolding low-carbon energy transition have seen spectacular gains in cost-competitiveness in the last year.
The latest analysis by research company BloombergNEF (BNEF) shows that the benchmark levelized cost of electricity,[1] or LCOE, for lithium-ion batteries has fallen 35% to $187 per megawatt-hour since the first half of 2018. Meanwhile, the benchmark LCOE for offshore wind has tumbled by 24%.
Batteries co-located with solar or wind projects are starting to compete, in many markets and without subsidy, with coal- and gas-fired generation for the provision of ‘dispatchable power’ that can be delivered whenever the grid needs it (as opposed to only when the wind is blowing, or the sun is shining).
Electricity demand is subject to pronounced peaks and lows inter-day. Meeting the peaks has previously been the preserve of technologies such as open-cycle gas turbines and gas reciprocating engines, but these are now facing competition from batteries with anything from one to four hours of energy storage, according to the report.
Tuesday, March 26, 2019
Geothermal Event! Opportunity for Exposure at GRC Annual Meeting & Expo
Sponsor The Geothermal Event Of The Year!
Sponsorships for the GRC Annual Meeting & Expo are now available. These are great opportunities for companies to get more exposure at the largest annual geothermal gathering in the world.
The 2019 meeting will take place in Palm Springs, California from September 15th through the 18th.The four-day event will offer technical, policy, and market conference sessions, educational seminars, tours of local geothermal and renewable energy projects, an expo and numerous networking opportunities.
Make the geothermal community take notice, become a sponsor now!
Sponsorships for the GRC Annual Meeting & Expo are now available. These are great opportunities for companies to get more exposure at the largest annual geothermal gathering in the world.
The 2019 meeting will take place in Palm Springs, California from September 15th through the 18th.The four-day event will offer technical, policy, and market conference sessions, educational seminars, tours of local geothermal and renewable energy projects, an expo and numerous networking opportunities.
Make the geothermal community take notice, become a sponsor now!
Thanks to our 2018 sponsors!
Science & Technology: Using Electric Plasma Bursts to Increase Rate of Penetration in Geothermal Drilling
Mechanical engineering researchers receive federal grant to enhance geothermal energy (Texas A&M University College of Engineering)
One remaining challenge associated with drilling geothermal wells is the presence of hard rocks, such as granite, that slow down the process and wear down drill bits. In turn, this causes drilling time and expenses to increase.
To combat this, a team of researchers from the J. Mike Walker '66 Department of Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University is developing Shockwave and Plasma Accelerated Rock Cracking (SPARC) drilling technology. By making the creation of wells more efficient, accessible and cost effective, their U.S. Department of Energy funded project will help make geothermal energy a more viable alternative to fossil fuels.
According to Dr. David Staack, associate professor, Sallie and Don Davis ’61 Career Development Professor, and College of Engineering director of laboratory instruction, the team’s SPARC technology will equip traditional drill bits with high voltage electrodes on the tip that emit a microscopic plasma discharge to shock the rock and crack it like a tiny explosion. Creating fractures and weakening the rock will allow the drill head, affixed with conventional diamond cutters, to have an easier time breaking through the material.
As Dr. Alan Palazzolo described, along with setting the stage for further development of geothermal energy, using electric plasma bursts to increase the rate of penetration will enable the drilling process to be streamlined and therefore be more cost competitive with nonrenewable resources.
Finance: Older Renewable Energy Facilities Can Be Ripe for Technology Upgrades
The Invisible Renewable Energy Revolution (#CleanTechnica Interview)
CleanTechnica went to the BNEF Summit in New York on Monday and got the inside scoop on decarbonization from Mark McGrail, Associate VP of Energy Management at Enel Green Power North America (EGPNA).
McGrail had some interesting things to say about Enel’s recent headline-grabbing deal to purchase 620 megawatts of US renewable energy projects from GE.
The deal involves 7 solar and geothermal facilities that were already under a joint venture between GE and EGPNA. Many energy industry observers are scratching their heads over GE’s motivation to sell, though paying down debt is probably high on its list.
For EGPNA, part of the motivation to buy may be sole bragging rights to the innovative Stillwater geothermal plant.
As McGrail explained, the plant includes both a PV array and a concentrating solar field. The extra dose of solar power adds heat to the well, slows its degradation by smoothing out operational fluctuations, and stretches out its effective lifespan.
Another facility in the group of 7, the Cove Fort plant, also puts innovative technology to work with the aim of extending the lifespan of a geothermal well.
All of this is by way of saying that the US now has a fairly long roster of older renewable energy facilities that are ripe for technology upgrades that add capacity and/or improve lifespan. It’s like getting a whole new clean power plant, without having to develop a new site.
Read More.........
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| In Utah, the Cove Fort geothermal plant gets a new life with hydroelectric additions |
McGrail had some interesting things to say about Enel’s recent headline-grabbing deal to purchase 620 megawatts of US renewable energy projects from GE.
The deal involves 7 solar and geothermal facilities that were already under a joint venture between GE and EGPNA. Many energy industry observers are scratching their heads over GE’s motivation to sell, though paying down debt is probably high on its list.
For EGPNA, part of the motivation to buy may be sole bragging rights to the innovative Stillwater geothermal plant.
As McGrail explained, the plant includes both a PV array and a concentrating solar field. The extra dose of solar power adds heat to the well, slows its degradation by smoothing out operational fluctuations, and stretches out its effective lifespan.
Another facility in the group of 7, the Cove Fort plant, also puts innovative technology to work with the aim of extending the lifespan of a geothermal well.
All of this is by way of saying that the US now has a fairly long roster of older renewable energy facilities that are ripe for technology upgrades that add capacity and/or improve lifespan. It’s like getting a whole new clean power plant, without having to develop a new site.
Read More.........
Climate Change: Increased Use of Renewables Have Great Impact on CO2 Emissions - IEA
Global Energy & CO2 Status Report (IEA)
The latest trends in energy and emissions in 2018
This online, annual report provides a snapshot of recent global trends and developments across fuels, renewable sources, and energy efficiency and carbon emissions, in 2018.
Renewables increased by 4% in 2018, accounting for almost one-quarter of global energy demand growth. The power sector led the gains, with renewables-based electricity generation increasing at its fastest pace this decade. Solar PV, hydropower, and wind each accounted for about a third of the growth, with bioenergy accounting for most of the rest. Renewables covered almost 45% of the world's electricity generation growth, now accounting for over 25% of global
power output.
Renewable electricity generated from other technologies grew by 7%, dominated by bioenergy. Geothermal electricity increased mostly in Turkey, with some gains also seen in Indonesia and the United States.
Increased use of renewables in 2018 had an even greater impact on CO2 emissions, avoiding 215 Mt of emissions, the vast majority of which is due to the transition to renewables in the power sector.
The savings from renewables was led by China and Europe, together contributing two-thirds to the global total. Increased generation from nuclear power plants also reduced emissions, averting nearly 60 Mt of CO2 emissions. Overall, without the transition to low-carbon sources of energy in 2018, emissions growth would have been 50% higher.
Download the PDF............
The latest trends in energy and emissions in 2018
Renewables increased by 4% in 2018, accounting for almost one-quarter of global energy demand growth. The power sector led the gains, with renewables-based electricity generation increasing at its fastest pace this decade. Solar PV, hydropower, and wind each accounted for about a third of the growth, with bioenergy accounting for most of the rest. Renewables covered almost 45% of the world's electricity generation growth, now accounting for over 25% of global
power output.
Renewable electricity generated from other technologies grew by 7%, dominated by bioenergy. Geothermal electricity increased mostly in Turkey, with some gains also seen in Indonesia and the United States.
Increased use of renewables in 2018 had an even greater impact on CO2 emissions, avoiding 215 Mt of emissions, the vast majority of which is due to the transition to renewables in the power sector.
The savings from renewables was led by China and Europe, together contributing two-thirds to the global total. Increased generation from nuclear power plants also reduced emissions, averting nearly 60 Mt of CO2 emissions. Overall, without the transition to low-carbon sources of energy in 2018, emissions growth would have been 50% higher.
Download the PDF............
China: Four-Day Geothermal Conference in Beijing
2019 ARMA-CUPB International Geothermal Conference (ARMA)
5-8 August, 2019, Beijing, China
The Organizing Committee of 2019 American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA) International Conference in Beijing warmly invites you to attend the conference during Aug 5-8, 2019, in Beijing, China.
The theme of the conference is “From conventional hydrothermal systems to enhanced geothermal energy: Technology Sharing with the Oil and Gas Industry”.
As the conference chairmen, it is a great honor for us to make an invitation for all of you to this exciting event, with the cordial hospitality and the warm welcome of Beijing.
More Information.........
5-8 August, 2019, Beijing, ChinaThe Organizing Committee of 2019 American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA) International Conference in Beijing warmly invites you to attend the conference during Aug 5-8, 2019, in Beijing, China.
The theme of the conference is “From conventional hydrothermal systems to enhanced geothermal energy: Technology Sharing with the Oil and Gas Industry”.
As the conference chairmen, it is a great honor for us to make an invitation for all of you to this exciting event, with the cordial hospitality and the warm welcome of Beijing.
More Information.........
Costa Rica: A Quarter of a Century of Geothermal Production at the Alfredo Mainieri Protti Geothermal Field
Costa Rica cumple 25 años de generación geotérmica sostenible - Costa Rica celebrates 25 years of sustainable geothermal generation (La Republica.net)
Este 24 de marzo se cumplió un cuarto de siglo del inicio de producción geotérmica por parte del Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE). Hoy día, el país posee la tercera capacidad instalada más grande del continente, detrás de Estados Unidos y México.
Los pozos que dieron ese primer empuje de energía siguen activos y en producción, como resultado de la visión sostenible del recurso que el ICE implementó desde el período de investigación. Se trata de la planta Miravalles I, en el Campo Geotérmico Alfredo Mainieri Protti, ubicado en Bagaces, Guanacaste.
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| Miravalles geothermal power plant, Costa Rica, by Prof. D. Chandrasekharam. GRC Photo Contest 2010. |
Los pozos que dieron ese primer empuje de energía siguen activos y en producción, como resultado de la visión sostenible del recurso que el ICE implementó desde el período de investigación. Se trata de la planta Miravalles I, en el Campo Geotérmico Alfredo Mainieri Protti, ubicado en Bagaces, Guanacaste.
(From Google Translate) On March 24, Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) completed a quarter of a century of geothermal production. Today, the country has the third largest installed capacity in the continent, behind the United States and Mexico.
The wells that produced that first push of energy are still active and in production, as a result of the sustainable vision of the resource that ICE implemented since the investigation period. It is the Miravalles I plant, in the Alfredo Mainieri Protti Geothermal Field, located in Bagaces, Guanacaste.
From the GRC Bulletin:
- Alfredo Mainieri Protti Geothermal Field—Formerly Miravalles, by Susan Fox Hodgson
Commonwealth of Dominica: Two X 3.5 MW Turbines Funded for Geothermal Power Project
Funds secured for two geothermal turbines says Vince Henderson (Dominica News Online)
Senior Advisor to the Dominica Geothermal Development Company (DGDC), His Excellency Dr. Vince Henderson has said that the financing package for Dominica’s Geothermal Program has been secured.
The financing package, which includes $22 million in grants, was approved by the World Bank.
Henderson said that the technical plan for the development of the project has also been secured, “and we are now awaiting the final approval of the tender documents so that we can go to market to invite tenders for an EPC contract, which is Engineering Procurement and Construction contract, [for] the entire development of the plant.”
He said that will lead to the construction of two turbines of 3.5 megawatts each in the Laudat area in order to generate power to sell to DOMLEC.
Henderson went on to say that the DGDC late last year finalized negotiations with Dominica Electricity Services Limited (DOMLEC) on the power purchase agreement.
Read More.........
From the Global Geothermal News archives:
From the Global Geothermal News archives:
- Tuesday, March 19, 2019 - Commonwealth of Dominica: World Bank Approves Funding of 7 MW Geothermal Power Project
- Monday, January 28, 2019 - Commonwealth of Dominica: Citizenship by Investment Program Helps Pay for Construction of Geothermal Power Plant
- Thursday, December 27, 2018 - Commonwealth of Dominica: Construction of Geothermal Power Plant to Begin by Third Quarter of 2019
- Thursday, January 4, 2018 - Commonwealth of Dominica: European Union Provides Funds for Geothermal Energy Development
Croatia: More Interest in Tapping Geothermal Resources
Croatia eyes more gas and oil production, use of geothermal sources (Reuters)
From the Global Geothermal News archives:
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
Croatia’s tender for gas and oil exploration in the north of the country has met good initial demand from potential bidders, while it is also eying investments in geothermal electricity production, a top energy official said on Tuesday.
The tender for seven blocks in the northern Panonian region over an area of 14,272 square kilometres closes on June 28.
At the same time Croatia is running a tender for four blocks in the country’s mountainous central and southern regions which closes on Sept. 10, but more exploration there is needed.
- Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Croatia: 17.5 MWe Velika Ciglena Geothermal Plant is Commissioned
- Thursday, July 12, 2018 - Croatia: Tender Opened for Operation of Four Geothermal Resources
- Wednesday, April 6, 2016 - Croatia: Construction Starts at Garden of Croatia Geothermal Project
Iceland: Geothermal Training Programme of the United Nations University Presentations of Graduating Fellows
Seminar of MSc and PhD Fellows (UNU-GTP)
Thursday 28 March from 13:00-16:30.
A seminar, for the presentations of the Geothermal Training Programme of the United Nations University (UNU-GTP) MSc Fellows graduating this spring, as well as presentations from two of our PhD Fellows, will be held in Vidgelmir, Orkugarður, Grensásvegi 9, Reykjavík, Iceland, Thursday 28 March from 13:00-16:30.
The presentations will start at 13:00. Each presentation is 20 min with approx. 10 minutes allowed for questions and discussions after each one.
The seminar is open to all and we strongly encourage everyone interested in the world's geothermal development to attend!
More Information........
Thursday 28 March from 13:00-16:30.
The presentations will start at 13:00. Each presentation is 20 min with approx. 10 minutes allowed for questions and discussions after each one.
The seminar is open to all and we strongly encourage everyone interested in the world's geothermal development to attend!
More Information........
China: 8th Annual Conference for the Development and Utilization of Deep Geothermal Energy
The Eighth Annual Conference for the Development and Utilization of Deep Geothermal Energy (CUGB)
March 26-28, 2019, China University of Geosciences, Beijing (CUGB)
Registration Fee: $500
Download the flyer and registration form.........
Goals:
March 26-28, 2019, China University of Geosciences, Beijing (CUGB)
Registration Fee: $500
Download the flyer and registration form.........
Goals:
- To bring together engineers, scientists, and managers in the geothermal industry.
- Serve as a public forum for the exchange of ideas on the exploration, development, and use of geothermal resources.
- Promote research, exploration and development of geothermal energy in ways compatible with the environment in China.
- Cooperate with national and international academic institutions, industry and government agencies to encourage economically and environmentally sound development and bring the innovative technology to china.
Monday, March 25, 2019
United Kingdom: Casing of Well at United Downs Deep Geothermal Project Completed to Nearly 4,000 Meters
United Downs Deep Geothermal Project - Update (GEL)
We completed installing and cementing the 9 5/8''casing (steel lining) to 3995m to isolate and seal this section last week and over the weekend. This was one of the most difficult parts of the project and was completed without a hitch; sighs of relief all round. We are now getting ready to drill into the exciting 8.5" open-hole section of the well with the big fractures and high temperatures.
Drilling will continue for another 1,000m approximately, but this will depend on exactly where we intersect the target fault structure. As soon as we are sure we have drilled through it, we will stop, run further geophysical logs and then conduct a short production test. That will complete the activity on UD-1, so then we will move the rig 8m along the site and start drilling UD-2. The slower than expected drilling speeds means that we are behind our original schedule and we now expect to finish UD-2 at the end of June.
Geothermal Engineering Limited (GEL) secured funding of £10.6 million from the European Regional Development Fund to explore the geothermal resources deep beneath Cornwall.
With £2.4 million from Cornwall Council and £5 million from private investors, the funding will allow GEL to drill two deep geothermal wells from its site within the United Downs Industrial Estate and build a 1MW - 3MW pilot power plant to demonstrate the technical and commercial viability of supplying both electricity and heat.
Read More........
Drilling will continue for another 1,000m approximately, but this will depend on exactly where we intersect the target fault structure. As soon as we are sure we have drilled through it, we will stop, run further geophysical logs and then conduct a short production test. That will complete the activity on UD-1, so then we will move the rig 8m along the site and start drilling UD-2. The slower than expected drilling speeds means that we are behind our original schedule and we now expect to finish UD-2 at the end of June.
Geothermal Engineering Limited (GEL) secured funding of £10.6 million from the European Regional Development Fund to explore the geothermal resources deep beneath Cornwall.
With £2.4 million from Cornwall Council and £5 million from private investors, the funding will allow GEL to drill two deep geothermal wells from its site within the United Downs Industrial Estate and build a 1MW - 3MW pilot power plant to demonstrate the technical and commercial viability of supplying both electricity and heat.
Read More........
Indonesia: Successful ITB International Geothermal Workshop Held
Institute of Technology Bandung (ITB) Geothermal Workshop 2019 Report (LinkedIn)
By George Barber, Country Manager Indonesia, Terra Energy & Resource Technologies (TERT), Inc.
By George Barber, Country Manager Indonesia, Terra Energy & Resource Technologies (TERT), Inc.
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| The GRC was one of the media partners for the event (Courtesy George Barber) |
The ITB International Geothermal Workshop has been held annually since 2012 by the "Institut of Teknologi Bandung" (Institute of Technology) which forms part of the Geothermal Master’s Program which has been running since 2008 where approximately 200 graduates have studied and have obtained a master’s degree since the inception of the master's course.
This event was held in Bandung, which is about 180 Kilometer from Jakarta via the toll road which on a good day, (early morning) can take 2 to 3 hours, although normally we can rely on anything from 3 to 10 hours, (still a little time before this will be improved) on March 18 - 22, 2019. This event has become a melting pot for the sharing of knowledge of the advantages and limitations of geothermal energy among other renewable energy in the world, especially Indonesia. This is the 8th workshop for geothermal in ITB and is looked forward to each year, where a lot of preparation goes into this, it is hoped that this event will run for many more years to come.
Finance: Two Geothermal Energy Turbine Manufacturers Could Form a Joint Venture
Siemens, Mitsubishi Discuss Merger of Turbine Units (Power Mag)
A German business magazine reports that Siemens is exploring options for its struggling gas turbine business, and could look to form a joint venture with Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI). Manager Magazin on March 21 said Siemens “wants to accommodate the large turbine business of the Japanese Mitsubishi Group and in the future hold only a minority.”
Turbine manufacturers including Siemens, Mitsubishi, and General Electric (GE) all have struggled in recent years as growth in renewable energy generation takes market share from fossil fuel-powered generation. Overcapacity in the turbine industry has led to strong price competition.
GE was the top producer of gas turbines in 2018, with about 33% of global orders by capacity, according to Barclays Plc. Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems, a subsidiary of MHI, was next at 30%, with Siemens at 26%.
Read More.........
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| Ready to Spin, by Ross Peden. Poihipi Geothermal Power Station, Taupo, New Zealand. GRC Photo Contest 2011. |
Turbine manufacturers including Siemens, Mitsubishi, and General Electric (GE) all have struggled in recent years as growth in renewable energy generation takes market share from fossil fuel-powered generation. Overcapacity in the turbine industry has led to strong price competition.
GE was the top producer of gas turbines in 2018, with about 33% of global orders by capacity, according to Barclays Plc. Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems, a subsidiary of MHI, was next at 30%, with Siemens at 26%.
Read More.........
USA, Utah: Opportunity for Geothermal Energy Developers in Beehive State
2019R Utah RFP (Pacificorp)
RFP Bids Due 19 April
This solicitation is a request for cost-competitive wind, photovoltaic (PV) solar, or geothermal renewable energy located in Utah and interconnecting with or delivering to PacifiCorp’s system.
The renewable energy resources must meet the criteria developed by the customers sponsoring this RFP, including Park City, Salt Lake City, Summit County, Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, and Utah Valley University (Participating Customers).
The Participating Customers are seeking to purchase renewable energy from renewable resources through Rocky Mountain Power’s Utah Electric Service Schedule 32 or Schedule 34 (or any other applicable tariff allowed by Utah laws and regulations).
Proposals for new renewable resources must demonstrate that projects will achieve commercial operation on or before December 31, 2022. The minimum project size is 20.0 MW and the maximum size should not exceed the requirements of the Participant Customers. The project must not compromise system reliability.
More Information........
RFP Bids Due 19 April
The renewable energy resources must meet the criteria developed by the customers sponsoring this RFP, including Park City, Salt Lake City, Summit County, Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, and Utah Valley University (Participating Customers).
The Participating Customers are seeking to purchase renewable energy from renewable resources through Rocky Mountain Power’s Utah Electric Service Schedule 32 or Schedule 34 (or any other applicable tariff allowed by Utah laws and regulations).
Proposals for new renewable resources must demonstrate that projects will achieve commercial operation on or before December 31, 2022. The minimum project size is 20.0 MW and the maximum size should not exceed the requirements of the Participant Customers. The project must not compromise system reliability.
More Information........
Germany: Third Well Drilled at Munich Geothermal District Heating Project
Stadtwerke München starten Pumpversuche an dritter Bohrung
- Stadtwerke München start pumping tests on third hole (IWR)
Die Stadtwerke München (SWM) haben die dritte von sechs Bohrungen für die Geothermie-Anlage am HKW Süd niedergebracht. Voraussichtlich ab dem heutigen Montag (25. März 2019) sollen Pumpversuche zeigen, ob Ergiebigkeit und Temperatur des Thermalwasservorkommens den Erwartungen entsprechen.
Die Ergebnisse der Leistungstests an den Bohrungen 1 und 2 waren nach SWM-Angaben bereits sehr vielversprechend: Die Temperatur war deutlich höher als erwartet, die Ergiebigkeit lag im Plan. Mit einer Leistung von 50 Megawatt und mehr soll die Geothermie-Anlage regenerative Wärme für mindestens 80.000 Münchnerinnen und Münchner liefern. Bis Ende 2019 sollen die Arbeiten an allen sechs Bohrlöchern abgeschlossen sein. Parallel dazu wird die Heizzentrale gebaut, die auch die Technik beherbergt. Nach finalen Langzeitpumpversuchen soll die Anlage dann im Jahr 2020 ans Netz gehen.
(From Google Translate) Stadtwerke München (SWM) has completed the third of six wells for the geothermal plant at HKW Süd. Probably starting today, Monday (March 25, 2019) pumping tests will show whether the yield and temperature of the geothermal water resources meet expectations.
The results of the performance tests on wells 1 and 2 were already very promising according to SWM data: the temperature was significantly higher than expected, the yield was on schedule. With a capacity of 50 MW and more, the geothermal plant is to supply regenerative heat for at least 80,000 Munich residents. By the end of 2019, work on all six wells is expected to be completed. In parallel, the heating center is being built, which also houses the technology. After final long-term pumping tests, the plant will then go online in 2020.
Weiterlesen........... Read More.........
- Stadtwerke München start pumping tests on third hole (IWR)
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| Ducks at the Schäftlarnstraße Drill Site in Munich, Germany. By David Lentsch. GRC Photo Contest 2018. |
Die Ergebnisse der Leistungstests an den Bohrungen 1 und 2 waren nach SWM-Angaben bereits sehr vielversprechend: Die Temperatur war deutlich höher als erwartet, die Ergiebigkeit lag im Plan. Mit einer Leistung von 50 Megawatt und mehr soll die Geothermie-Anlage regenerative Wärme für mindestens 80.000 Münchnerinnen und Münchner liefern. Bis Ende 2019 sollen die Arbeiten an allen sechs Bohrlöchern abgeschlossen sein. Parallel dazu wird die Heizzentrale gebaut, die auch die Technik beherbergt. Nach finalen Langzeitpumpversuchen soll die Anlage dann im Jahr 2020 ans Netz gehen.
The results of the performance tests on wells 1 and 2 were already very promising according to SWM data: the temperature was significantly higher than expected, the yield was on schedule. With a capacity of 50 MW and more, the geothermal plant is to supply regenerative heat for at least 80,000 Munich residents. By the end of 2019, work on all six wells is expected to be completed. In parallel, the heating center is being built, which also houses the technology. After final long-term pumping tests, the plant will then go online in 2020.
Weiterlesen........... Read More.........
USA, Hawaii: Puna Geothermal Venture Holds Successful Community Meeting
Puna Geothermal Holds Community Meeting (Big Island Video News)
(Video 26:47 Minutes)
Representatives of Puna Geothermal Venture held a community meeting Friday evening at the Pāhoa High School cafeteria, where they offered to help lava-locked residents regain access to their properties.
Ormat, the parent company of PGV, is planning to move forward with plans to resume operations on the lower East Rift Zone of Kīlauea, where the 2018 eruption of the volcano forced the company to cease operations. Lava partially inundated the facility and blocked access to the plant.
There were concerns that the meeting might be interrupted by residents opposed to the geothermal facility, but those concerns never materialized.
Read More.........
(Video 26:47 Minutes)
Representatives of Puna Geothermal Venture held a community meeting Friday evening at the Pāhoa High School cafeteria, where they offered to help lava-locked residents regain access to their properties.
Ormat, the parent company of PGV, is planning to move forward with plans to resume operations on the lower East Rift Zone of Kīlauea, where the 2018 eruption of the volcano forced the company to cease operations. Lava partially inundated the facility and blocked access to the plant.
There were concerns that the meeting might be interrupted by residents opposed to the geothermal facility, but those concerns never materialized.
Read More.........
USA: Enhanced Geothermal Systems Could Provide at Least 15% of the Nation's Total Electricity by Midcentury
3 Trends to Watch in Renewable Energy in 2019 (Motley Fool)
Most conversations and policies regarding carbon-free power fail to include two next-generation renewable power sources likely to emerge by 2030: offshore wind power and enhanced geothermal systems (EGS).
EGS is still in the earliest stages of development, but it has equally impressive potential. The technology involves drilling wells deep underground, circulating a fluid over naturally hot rocks, and using the steam created in a closed-loop system to spin turbines on the surface. Unlike conventional geothermal or hydrothermal resources that are dependent on existing geology in a limited number of states, EGS projects could be economical across a wide range of the country.
In fact, the Department of Energy (DOE) thinks the United States has at least 100,000 megawatts of next-generation geothermal potential -- equivalent to the nation's installed nuclear power fleet (although EGS would produce slightly less electricity than nuclear on a power capacity basis, but more than wind or solar). In 2018, the department doled out a record $16 million in grants to accelerate research, and it thinks commercially viable technology could be ready as soon as 2030.
That may sound ambitious, but much of the technology will borrow from hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") techniques developed to tap into American shale oil and gas resources. If the technology works as envisioned, then EGS could provide at least 15% of the nation's total electricity by midcentury. Yet it never shows up in long-term decarbonization projections to 2050.
Read More.........
EGS is still in the earliest stages of development, but it has equally impressive potential. The technology involves drilling wells deep underground, circulating a fluid over naturally hot rocks, and using the steam created in a closed-loop system to spin turbines on the surface. Unlike conventional geothermal or hydrothermal resources that are dependent on existing geology in a limited number of states, EGS projects could be economical across a wide range of the country.
In fact, the Department of Energy (DOE) thinks the United States has at least 100,000 megawatts of next-generation geothermal potential -- equivalent to the nation's installed nuclear power fleet (although EGS would produce slightly less electricity than nuclear on a power capacity basis, but more than wind or solar). In 2018, the department doled out a record $16 million in grants to accelerate research, and it thinks commercially viable technology could be ready as soon as 2030.
That may sound ambitious, but much of the technology will borrow from hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") techniques developed to tap into American shale oil and gas resources. If the technology works as envisioned, then EGS could provide at least 15% of the nation's total electricity by midcentury. Yet it never shows up in long-term decarbonization projections to 2050.
Read More.........
Japan: Geothermal Powered Train Starts Service in Tokyo
Train Service in Tokyo Powered Fully by Renewable Energy (Nippon.com)
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| The new line - marked in yellow - runs from Shimo-takaido in the north-western suburbs towards central Tokyo. |
Tokyu Corp. began on Monday a train service on its Setagaya Line in Tokyo that uses electricity generated 100 pct from renewable energy sources.
According to the railway operator, this is the first urban train service in Japan that relies entirely on renewable energy.
The Setagaya Line is now powered by geothermal and hydraulic power supplied by the Tohoku Electric Power Co. group. According to its website the company has 189 MW of geothermal energy capacity from 4 stations.
From the Global Geothermal News archives:
- Friday, December 6, 2013 - Japan: Geothermal to Power Trains in Japan (The Japan News)
Kenya: Increase in Profit for GDC Due to Boost in Steam Sales from Geothermal Wells in Olkaria
GDC Posts Profit Of Sh 1.4 Billion (News Release)
The Geothermal Development Company (GDC) posted Sh 2.1 billion profit before tax for the Financial Year 2017/18. This is a sharp increase from Sh 896 million posted the previous year.
The increase in profits is attributed to a boost in steam sales from our geothermal wells in Olkaria. The steam is sold to KenGen for electricity generation.
Speaking at the same function, Dr. Eng. Joseph Njoroge, the PS Ministry of Energy, exuded confidence that with increased income GDC will scale-up its steam exploration operations.
The PS noted that a huge chunk of Kenya’s geothermal potential is yet to be explored. Kenya, Eng. Njoroge noted, is only exploiting 600 MW of geothermal out of a potential of 10, 000 MW.
Read More.........
The increase in profits is attributed to a boost in steam sales from our geothermal wells in Olkaria. The steam is sold to KenGen for electricity generation.
Speaking at the same function, Dr. Eng. Joseph Njoroge, the PS Ministry of Energy, exuded confidence that with increased income GDC will scale-up its steam exploration operations.
The PS noted that a huge chunk of Kenya’s geothermal potential is yet to be explored. Kenya, Eng. Njoroge noted, is only exploiting 600 MW of geothermal out of a potential of 10, 000 MW.
Read More.........
China: Four-Day Geothermal Conference in Beijing
2019 ARMA-CUPB International Geothermal Conference
5-8 August, 2019, Beijing, China
The Organizing Committee of 2019 American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA) International Conference in Beijing warmly invites you to attend the conference during Aug 5-8, 2019, in Beijing, China. The theme of the conference is “From conventional hydrothermal systems to enhanced geothermal energy: Technology Sharing with the Oil and Gas Industry”. As the conference chairmen, it is a great honor for us to make an invitation for all of you to this exciting event, with the cordial hospitality and the warm welcome of Beijing.
Participants of the conference are kindly invited to submit the abstract by 22rd April 2019 through the submission system.
All the accepted papers will be available on One Petro and EI (The Engineering Index) searching. Selected papers can be transferred to Geothermics.
More Information.........
5-8 August, 2019, Beijing, China
The Organizing Committee of 2019 American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA) International Conference in Beijing warmly invites you to attend the conference during Aug 5-8, 2019, in Beijing, China. The theme of the conference is “From conventional hydrothermal systems to enhanced geothermal energy: Technology Sharing with the Oil and Gas Industry”. As the conference chairmen, it is a great honor for us to make an invitation for all of you to this exciting event, with the cordial hospitality and the warm welcome of Beijing.
Participants of the conference are kindly invited to submit the abstract by 22rd April 2019 through the submission system.
All the accepted papers will be available on One Petro and EI (The Engineering Index) searching. Selected papers can be transferred to Geothermics.
More Information.........
Canada: Innergex Renewable Energy Offloads Geothermal Assets in Iceland
Innergex to sell its entire interest in Icelandic assets for US$304.8 million (CAN$408.8 million) (News Release)
Canadian company Innergex Renewable Energy Inc. is pleased to announce that an agreement has been reached to sell its wholly-owned subsidiary Magma Energy Sweden A.B. which owns an equity interest of approximately 53.9% in HS Orka hf for a purchase price of US$304.8 million (CAN$408.8 million) to a Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets managed European infrastructure fund, subject to customary closing adjustments.
HS Orka owns two operating geothermal facilities (Reykjanes and Svartsengi) totaling 174 MW, the 10 MW Brúarvirkjun run-of-river hydro project which is under construction, a number of prospective renewable power projects, as well as a 30% equity interest in the Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa and Resort in Iceland.
Read More.........
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| Gleaming Clean Geothermal Energy, by Will Osborn, Svartsengi power plant, Iceland. GRC Photo Contest 2016. |
HS Orka owns two operating geothermal facilities (Reykjanes and Svartsengi) totaling 174 MW, the 10 MW Brúarvirkjun run-of-river hydro project which is under construction, a number of prospective renewable power projects, as well as a 30% equity interest in the Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa and Resort in Iceland.
Read More.........
Sunday, March 24, 2019
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Saturday, March 23, 2019
Join the Global Geothermal Community!
Support your geothermal energy association - Join the GRC!
As of December 31, 2018 the membership of the GRC stood at 1,205 drawn from 44 countries around the world.
As of December 31, 2018 the membership of the GRC stood at 1,205 drawn from 44 countries around the world.
The GRC membership is open to any person, organization, agency, or company. The membership advantage includes access to:
- The GRC Policy Committee - An add-on option for GRC members who want to fund advocacy work at the U.S. state and local level.
- International Geothermal Association (IGA) Membership - through the GRC's affiliation with the International Geothermal Association (IGA), all GRC Members are automatically members of the IGA, which offers discount registration to its World Geothermal Congress events (every 3 years), quarterly IGA News and a special discount rate for the international publication, Geothermics.
- GRC Annual Meeting & Expo - discounted registration for the largest annual geothermal energy conference and trade show in the world.
- GRC Bulletin - (6 issues) official worldwide industry trade publication of the Geothermal Resources Council, the Bulletin is the definitive voice for geothermal energy development and production.
- Global Geothermal News - Weekly Summary - All members receive a weekly summary of articles from the Global Geothermal News website.
- Online access to the GRC Membership Directory - provides business, consulting and research contacts throughout the international geothermal community.
- Online GRC Library - More than 42,000 catalogued items, free downloads of premium content.
- Education Program - special meetings, workshops, and conferences on a broad range of topics pertaining to geothermal exploration, development and utilization at a discount to members.
- Discount on advertising - exclusive first-access space consideration in all GRC publications.
New members can also contact GRC at grc@geothermal.org or (530) 758-2360 for further information.
Friday, March 22, 2019
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.
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.
Education: $14,000 in Educational Awards Announced by Geothermal Resources Council
Geothermal Resources Council Announces Scholarships (News Release)
Total of $14,000 in educational awards to be given to eight students in the international geothermal energy community
The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) is pleased to announce the availability of the 2019 GRC Scholarship Awards.
To qualify for any of these awards a student must be a GRC member (student memberships are only $20 per year). 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. 104
Total of $14,000 in educational awards to be given to eight students in the international geothermal energy community
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| John Grill, Estefanía Ramírez Restrepo and Yuran Zhang received their awards at last year's GRC Annual Meeting & Expo |
To qualify for any of these awards a student must be a GRC member (student memberships are only $20 per year). 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:
- Five (5) Marcelo Lippmann Graduate Scholarship Awards of $2500 – to be eligible for one of these awards, the candidate must be enrolled in a graduate-level program at an accredited academic institution at the time of the award (Fall 2019). If selected, each recipient is required to submit a paper on his/her research (or research progress) to be published in the GRC Transactions and deliver results at the meeting as either a poster or oral presentation. If the recipient presents in the year of the award then the full $2500 is awarded at that time; if the recipient defers to present/publish the following year then $750 is withheld until the following year when the recipient presents.
- Three (3) GRC Undergraduate Scholarship Awards of $500 – to be eligible for one of these awards, the candidate must be a third or fourth year undergraduate at an accredited academic institution at the time of the award (Fall 2019).
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. 104
Science & Technology: Measuring the Seasonal Variability Of Geothermal Areas Associated With Hot Dry Rock Systems
Imaging Thermal Anomalies in Hot Dry Rock Geothermal Systems from Near-Surface Geophysical Modelling (MDPI)
By David Gomez-Ortiz, et al
Convective hydrothermal systems have been extensively studied using electrical and electromagnetic methods given the strong correlation between low conductivity anomalies associated with hydrothermal brines and high temperature areas.
However, studies addressing the application of similar geophysical methods to hot dry rock geothermal systems are very limited in the literature.
The Timanfaya volcanic area, located on Lanzarote Island (Canary Islands), comprises one of these hot dry rock systems, where ground temperatures ranging from 250 to 605 °C have been recorded in pyroclastic deposits at shallow (<70 m) depths.
We conclude that the combined use of ground penetrating radar, electromagnetic induction and magnetic methods constitutes a valuable tool to locate and study both the geometry at depth and seasonal variability of geothermal areas associated with hot dry rock systems.
Read More.........
Gomez-Ortiz, D.; Blanco-Montenegro, I.; Arnoso, J.; Martin-Crespo, T.; Solla, M.; Montesinos, F.G.; Vélez, E.; Sánchez, N. Imaging Thermal Anomalies in Hot Dry Rock Geothermal Systems from Near-Surface Geophysical Modelling. Remote Sens. 2019, 11, 675. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs11060675
By David Gomez-Ortiz, et al
However, studies addressing the application of similar geophysical methods to hot dry rock geothermal systems are very limited in the literature.
The Timanfaya volcanic area, located on Lanzarote Island (Canary Islands), comprises one of these hot dry rock systems, where ground temperatures ranging from 250 to 605 °C have been recorded in pyroclastic deposits at shallow (<70 m) depths.
We conclude that the combined use of ground penetrating radar, electromagnetic induction and magnetic methods constitutes a valuable tool to locate and study both the geometry at depth and seasonal variability of geothermal areas associated with hot dry rock systems.
Read More.........
Gomez-Ortiz, D.; Blanco-Montenegro, I.; Arnoso, J.; Martin-Crespo, T.; Solla, M.; Montesinos, F.G.; Vélez, E.; Sánchez, N. Imaging Thermal Anomalies in Hot Dry Rock Geothermal Systems from Near-Surface Geophysical Modelling. Remote Sens. 2019, 11, 675. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs11060675
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