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Monday, December 30, 2019

Geothermal Event! Call for Papers - Deadline is May 27, 2020

GRC Annual Meeting 2020 - Call for Papers (News Release)


Geothermal Resources Council Annual Meeting will be held in Reno, Nevada, USA

The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) has issued a call for papers for the world’s biggest annual geothermal energy conference taking place October 18-21, 2020, at the Peppermill Resort Spa & Casino, Reno, Nevada, USA.

The GRC Annual Meeting & Expo is the industry’s largest annual gathering of leading geothermal energy scientists, producers, renewable energy industry stakeholders, regulators, utilities, and key associated business leaders. The four-day event will offer technical, policy, and market conference sessions, educational seminars, tours of local geothermal and renewable energy projects, and numerous networking opportunities.

Nearly 1,000 attendees came to the 2019 GRC Annual Meeting and Expo from just under 40 different countries, highlighting the GRC’s role in connecting the global geothermal energy community. With increasing interest in geothermal as a reliable source of renewable energy providing both flexible and baseload power production around the world, the GRC is looking ahead to an even stronger international attendance in 2020. 

Friday, December 27, 2019

USA, California: High-Temperature Well Cementing Workshop - Exploring Geothermal and Oil & Gas Synergies

Joint GRC-SPE Workshop: High-Temperature Well Cementing

“Exploring Geothermal and Oil & Gas Synergies”

March 30 - April 1, 2020,
San Diego, California, USA

Geothermal wells experience high temperatures at very shallow depths and are required to cement casing across the entire length of each casing string set in the well. Our joint workshop will enable both industries to share their experiences, technologies, technical procedures and best practices on this important aspect of well completion.

The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) together with the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) invite you to a special joint High-Temperature Well Cementing workshop.

The draft agenda, hotel reservations, and more, can be found on our new website.........

For more information contact Estela Smith at grc@geothermal.org or call 530.758.2360 ext 102.

Thursday, December 26, 2019

The Geothermal Energy Magazine - 48 Pages Now Available Online

Now Available - GRC Bulletin - November/December 2019

Volume 48, No. 6 of the internationally-renowned geothermal energy magazine is now available to download. Produced by the Geothermal Resources Council since 1972, the Bulletin is the voice of the international geothermal energy community.

48 pages of geothermal news and information now available for members only.

In this issue:
  • President’s Message, by Andy Sabin
  • Executive Director's Message, by William Pettitt
  • Communication from the GRC, by Ian Crawford
  • Inside Geothermal: North America, Central & South America, Australasia, Asia, Africa, Europe, Education, Science & Technology, Climate Change, by Ian Crawford
  • The Repowering of The Lightning Dock Geothermal Plant in New Mexico, by Joseph Bonafin and Halley K. Dickey
  • In Memoriam - George Albert Frye & Gerald “Jerry” Niimi
  • Publications, Websites, Videos & Maps, by Ian Crawford
  • Calendar of Events
The GRC Bulletin is only available online to GRC members. Don't miss out! Become a GRC Member and be informed.

Monday, December 23, 2019

USA, Nevada: “We commend the extension of the PTC available for geothermal.." - Ormat CEO

Ormat Commends the Extension of Geothermal Tax Credits (News Release)

Continued Support of Geothermal Industry Creates Jobs and Contributes to Nation’s Energy Independence

Ormat Technologies, Inc. today commended passage of the United States federal appropriations bill that retroactively revived and extended the full Production Tax Credit (PTC) for geothermal facilities. The PTC provides a credit for each kilowatt-hour of energy produced by the taxpayer from qualified renewable energy facilities. The PTC for geothermal facilities that expired at the end of 2017 was retroactively revived and extended through 2020, continuing U.S. support for the geothermal industry. This support contributes to the ongoing creation of new jobs in the geothermal industry as well as the nation’s energy independence.

On December 17, 2019, the United States House of Representatives passed the tax extenders package, allowing geothermal projects that begin construction before the end of 2020 to claim PTCs when the project is later placed in service, or to elect to receive in lieu of such PTCs, an Investment Tax Credit (ITC). On December 19, 2019, the United States Senate passed this bill and it was signed into law by President Donald Trump on December 20, 2019.

“Geothermal energy remains a key element of our country’s energy portfolio, enabling higher renewable penetration and greenhouse gas reductions,” said Isaac Angel, Ormat’s Chief Executive Officer. “We commend the extension of the PTC available for geothermal, which helps level the playing field with other technologies and provides predictable market signals for project development. This, in turn, helps leverage private investment to create new Jobs and drive economic benefits across the country.”

A copy of the law can be found at the following link: https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/1865

USA, Hawaii: Employment as Planner-in-Charge of Departmental Geothermal Resources Management Activities

Vacancy - Mineral Resources Specialist (State of Hawaii Executive Branch)

This position is responsible for serving as planner-in-charge of departmental geothermal resources management activities by conducting studies, performing analyses, preparing plans and coordinating activities related to the proper management of geothermal resources and development of geothermal energy in Hawaii.  Performs other duties as assigned.

USA, California: "...mineral extraction from geothermal brine will change the economic future of this valley,”

Salton Sea land owners may luck out (San Diego Reader)

Lithium in the geothermal brine – if they can only extract it


Even though there are hurdles, both Ryan Kelley, the Imperial County District 4 supervisor and William Pettitt, the executive director of the Geothermal Resources Council, seem quite optimistic about the future potential for geothermal energy in this region.

“The Imperial Valley and Salton Sea, that area is a huge geothermal resource,” Pettitt said. “It has huge potential in the future for supplying power and should be a large component of California’s electricity demand in the future. There’s a big potential there. That obviously leads to huge benefits for the local economy. Geothermal is a really good power source in terms of providing good, stable jobs for folks that work in it. And, obviously, it has a large amount of support from companies around it that would all feed into the economy.”

Kelley, who oversees the daily economy of the region, echoed Pettitt’s views on job creation. He also lamented the fact that Tesla decided to open their Gigafactory for lithium-ion battery and vehicle sub-assembly in Sparks, Nevada (near Reno) as opposed to in his district. There is lithium in the geothermal brine that reaches the surface during the mining process, but the technology to extract it from that brine (while still turning a profit) has yet to be developed. Kelley added that the area near Reno that Tesla chose has “open ground, hard-rock” traditional lithium mining, and that’s likely why they were selected.

But if the puzzle that is extracting lithium from geothermal brine in a cost-effective fashion can be solved, the Imperial Valley may transform into a mining super-power.

“There are companies now exploring that and trying to bring that lithium recovery into part of their business model,” Pettitt explained. “On some estimates, the Salton Sea region alone could provide, I believe, two-thirds of the lithium demand in 2025 (worldwide) if the engineering for recovering that lithium was successfully implemented. That brings in a lot of real interest because if you are recovering the lithium in that area you can also bring in battery manufacturers into the equation as well as electric vehicle manufacturers. You could really change the economy down there in a big way if that lithium resource started to be developed forever.”

Kelley has the same hope. “We still believe that the mineral extraction from geothermal brine will change the economic future of this valley,” he said.

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

Uganda: Exploration Drilling for Geothermal Energy to Start Next Month

Govt starts process to generate 1,500 MW geothermal energy (S24)

The [Ugandan] government has awarded a contract worth Shs2.3 billion to Royal Techno Industries Ltd to embark on developing and exploiting the thermal energy plants in Hoima and Nebbi districts. Under the exploration programme, the company will drill 16 temperature gradient holes in Kibiro, Hoima District and in Panyimur, Nebbi District.

According to Vincent Kato, the coordinator of thermal energy in the Energy ministry, drilling will start in January 2020. “The exercise will take about two months. Holes with the highest temperature gradient will help site deep exploration wells,” he said. Kato revealed that the project is jointly funded by the Geothermal Risk Mitigation Facility of the African Union Commission. He added that in the next two years, geothermal energy will be ready for use. “We are planning to use well-head technology to generate megawatts as we prepare to construct power plants,” Kato said.

Koti Reddy, the managing director of Royal Techno Industries, said that they will apply the down-the-hole drill and mud rotary drilling methods. He appealed to government to sensitise residents about the benefits of the project to avoid hostility. Kato said that the steam from the Geothermal plants will also be used to heat the crude oil pipeline, fish drying and other uses.


From the Global Geothermal News archives:

Iceland: Geothermal District Heating Network Expands

20 km Geothermal DH Pipeline Connected (Mannvit)



Construction of a new geothermal district heating pipeline is underway in rural South Iceland to the small town of Höfn. The pipeline stretches from its source nearly 20 km away from Höfn. 

The geothermal area in Hoffell in Hornafjörður has been studied for many years. Rarik, state owned utility company, took over the project and has drilled exploration and production wells. Now there is enough hot water for Höfn. 

Construction has begun on the excavation of a nearly 20-kilometer long trench to the town and laying of the pipeline in the ground. Mannvit is supervising the construction work for the new pipeline.

Mexico: Inauguration of 27 MW Las Azufres III-2 (Phase 2), Unit 18 Geothermal Power Plant

AMLO inaugura central geotermoelectrica “Los Azufres”, en Michoacán - AMLO Inaugurates “Los Azufres” Geothermal Power Plant In Michoacán (Reporte Indigo)

Este sábado, en su segundo día de actividades de supervisión de complejos de la Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE), el presidente Andrés Manuel López Obrador inauguró la Unidad 18 Central Geotermoelectrica “Los Azufres”, en Michoacán.

(From Google translate) This Saturday, on his second day of complex supervision activities of the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE), President Andrés Manuel López Obrador inaugurated Unit 18 Geothermal Power Plant "Los Azufres", in Michoacán.

Lee mas.........                                          Read More.........

From the Global Geothermal News archives.......

Indonesia: Talks to Expand Muara Laboh Geothermal Power Plant by 65 MW

Supreme Energy, PLN in talks to expand geothermal power plant in W. Sumatra (Jakarta Post)

Renewable energy company Supreme Energy plans to expand the generation capacity of its geothermal power plant in Muara Laboh, West Sumatra, which recently entered commercial operations.

The company is in talks with state-owned electricity company PLN and the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry on the development of the second stage of the power plant, which would up the generation capacity by 65 megawatts, Supreme Energy vice president of relations Prijandaru Effendi said.

"The expansion would require $400 million in investments and would start once PPA negotiations are settled," he said following the inauguration of the first stage of the power plant on Dec. 16.

The electricity from the first unit of the geothermal plant, which has a capacity to produce 85 MW, will be fed into PLN's power distribution network in Sumatra. 


From the Global Geothermal News archives:

Croatia: Italian Company Shows Interest in Geothermal Energy Projects

Italy's Saipem Interested in Investing in Geothermal Energy in Croatia (Total Croatia News)

The Italian company Saipem has expressed interest in investing in geothermal energy in Croatia, the Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency said on Monday, announcing that it would soon invite bids for three more locations.

At a recent meeting at the Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency, representatives of the Italian energy and engineering company Saipem, which until 2016 was a daughter company of the ENI energy giant, expressed interest in making investments in renewable energy in Croatia, notably in geothermal energy.

Saipem has been developing its first geothermal energy exploitation project in South America, and Croatia has been recognised as the next step, Saipem official Paolo Carrera said.

Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency officials say that bids will be invited for three locations - Merhatovec (Međimurje County), Pčelić (Virovitica-Podravina County) and Ernestinovo (Osijek-Baranja County), where temperatures exceeding 140 degrees Celsius have been registered, which is suitable for energy production.

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

Friday, December 20, 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.

Kenya: Geothermal Development Company Recovers USD 14 Million from Chinese Contractor

GDC recovers Sh1.4bn paid to Chinese contractor (The Star)

Stanbic Bank, the guarantor, was compelled to refund the cash to after Hong Kong Offshore Oil Services Limited failed to do the job.

The Geothermal Development Company has recovered Sh1.4 billion (about $14 million) awarded to a Chinese contractor for drilling at the Baringo-Silali project.

The company will proceed with its own drilling after the Chinese company vanished despite being paid the Sh1.5 billion, a 25 per cent advance of the contract sum.

“We will proceed with our own drilling operations. Already there is one rig at the site and we have completed drilling of the two wells. The recovery of the funds will boost our operations in the region,” GDC boss Johnson Nchoe in a statement.

The Geothermal Energy Magazine - 48 Pages Now Available Online

Now Available - GRC Bulletin - November/December 2019

Volume 48, No. 6 of the internationally-renowned geothermal energy magazine is now available to download. Produced by the Geothermal Resources Council since 1972, the Bulletin is the voice of the international geothermal energy community.

48 pages of geothermal news and information now available for members only.

In this issue:
  • President’s Message, by Andy Sabin
  • Executive Director's Message, by William Pettitt
  • Communication from the GRC, by Ian Crawford
  • Inside Geothermal: North America, Central & South America, Australasia, Asia, Africa, Europe, Education, Science & Technology, Climate Change, by Ian Crawford
  • The Repowering of The Lightning Dock Geothermal Plant in New Mexico, by Joseph Bonafin and Halley K. Dickey
  • In Memoriam - George Albert Frye & Gerald “Jerry” Niimi
  • Publications, Websites, Videos & Maps, by Ian Crawford
  • Calendar of Events
The GRC Bulletin is only available online to GRC members. Don't miss out! Become a GRC Member and be informed.

New Zealand: Geo40 and Climeon to Establish Combined Mineral extraction and Geothermal Power Production Plant Next Year

Climeon enters strategic partnership with Geo40 (News Release)

Geo40's commercial demonstration plant at Ohaaki.
Climeon has entered into a collaboration agreement with the New Zealand-based geothermal minerals firm Geo40 to strengthen the companies’ geothermal offering and enable an expansion into waste heat recovery at existing geothermal power plants, so-called bottoming cycles. The companies will be working together to establish a first combined mineral extraction and power production plant during 2020.

Geo40 has developed a technology to extract silica and other minerals from geothermal brine, the hot wastewater that remains after high temperature geothermal power production. The silica in the brine causes scaling in geothermal pipes and wells and limits the heat that can be extracted and utilized for power generation. By extracting and removing the silica and other valuable minerals like lithium, Geo40’s technology reduces operating costs for geothermal power stations, while producing sustainably sourced minerals. The filtered water from Geo40’s application can then be utilized in Climeon’s Heat Power modules to produce clean electricity and increase power output at geothermal power stations. Bringing together the two firms’ technologies opens up a wide range of global opportunities, particularly in recovering waste heat from existing geothermal power plants, so called bottoming cycles.  


From the Global Geothermal News archives:

Europe: Report on Monitoring and Mitigation of Adverse Effects During a Geothermal Project

Report on mitigation measures (Geoenvi)

This report focuses on the monitoring and mitigation measures that are adopted, or have been tested and are under development, to reduce the probability of adverse effects and circumvent their consequences to the environment determined by the human activities during a geothermal project development.

The impacts and risks related to health and safety of those working in geothermal facilities are not included in this analysis, since they are strictly regulated and prescribed by the health and safety management programs of geothermal projects.

Report on mitigation measures........

Belgium: Two Day Seminar on Environmental Concerns Related to Deep Geothermal Energy Projects

Tackling environmental concerns for deploying geothermal energy in Europe (GEOENVI)

4-5 February 2020, Brussels, Belgium

This European 2-day seminar, to be held on 4-5 February 2020 in Brussels, will present instruments to answer the environmental concerns related to deep geothermal energy projects that are operational or under development in Europe.

The discussions will be based on the preliminary results of the GEOENVI research project, which aims at setting an adapted methodology for assessing environment impacts and risks of geothermal projects. The event will also debate the latest development in terms of environmental regulations and finance at European level.

For this event, GEOENVI will liaise with other ongoing studies and researches on environmental impacts and LCA analysis for deep geothermal.

More Information.........

Australia: Association Makes the Case for Geothermal Down Under

Geothermal Energy Can Provide a Source of Low Emission Electricity Generation in Australia (Australian Geothermal Association)

A recent Australia-wide census by the Australian Geothermal Association (AGA) showed that geothermal energy is already making a useful contribution to the Australian energy mix; direct-use geothermal is a successful and growing industry. Geothermally generated electricity can also play a role in Australia’s energy transition, but to achieve progress it is critical that government policy acknowledges and supports this potential.

The Australian geothermal industry experienced a sustained surge in activity from 2000-2013 focussed on developing innovative technologies with huge potential. Although these efforts were not commercially successful, more conventional approaches to generating electricity with geothermal energy remain viable. For example, a new geothermal power plant was recently commissioned in Winton, Queensland. The 310 kW plant is currently the only operating project in Australia, although a similar geothermal power plant in Birdsville, Queensland provided over 20 years of reliable service until it was decommissioned recently. These two successful projects demonstrate that lingering perceptions that geothermally generated electricity is not possible in Australia are inaccurate.

Thursday, December 19, 2019

USA, California: Well Drilling and Pilot Plant Construction at Hell's Kitchen Lithium & Geothermal Power Project to Begin Soon


Controlled Thermal Resources (CTR) has spent six years securing rock solid foundations for the Hell's Kitchen lithium and geothermal power project on the shore of the Salton Sea in Imperial County, Southern California.

Based on the results of an industry-recognized assessment, CTR is advancing to delineation well drilling and pilot plant construction in Q1, 2020. Delivery of the first 17,350 tonnes of battery-grade lithium carbonate is expected in 2023 (Stage 1). The Project is expected to scale up to 34,700 tonnes LCE per annum in 2025 (Stage 2) which will include an additional 17,350 tonnes of lithium hydroxide per annum to meet growing demand.

CTR’s Hell’s Kitchen Power Co. is currently in advanced negotiations to secure a 40 MW power purchase agreement.  Further negotiations with western U.S. power utilities are also underway.   

Download the new brochure from Controlled Thermal Resources (PDF)..........

France: Another Geothermal District Heating Project Breaks Ground in Paris Suburb

Géothermie : à Bobigny et Drancy, le Sipperec explore les profondeurs
 - Geothermal energy: in Bobigny and Drancy, Sipperec explores the depths (Les Echos)

Le forage des quatre puits a débuté le 21 novembre dernier. Bobigny et Drancy apporteront bientôt une source d'énergies renouvelables francilienne. Le réseau de  géothermie  Genyo y verra le jour d'ici à l'automne 2020 sous l'impulsion du Sipperec (syndicat intercommunal de Paris pour l'énergie et les réseaux de communication). Long de trente kilomètres, il approvisionnera en chaleur l'équivalent de 20.000 logements (immeubles, logements sociaux, équipements).

(From Google Translate) Drilling of the four wells began on November 21. Bobigny and Drancy will soon bring a source of renewable energy from Ile-de-France. The Genyo geothermal network will be created there by autumn 2020 under the impetus of Sipperec (Paris inter-municipal union for energy and communication networks). Thirty kilometers long, it will supply the equivalent of 20,000 homes with heat (buildings, social housing, equipment).

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

USA, Nevada: Public Comment Period Opens for Comstock Geothermal Exploration Project

BLM Seeks Public Input For The Comstock Geothermal Exploration Plan  (BLM)

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Carson City District, Stillwater Field Office, is seeking public input as it initiates an Environmental Assessment for the Comstock Geothermal Exploration operation plan on geothermal leases submitted by Ormat Nevada Inc. The BLM is also requesting public input under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act for the project. This includes seeking information and identifying historic properties in or near the project area. The BLM will be analyzing the direct, indirect, and cumulative effects for the proposed exploration operation plan. Public comments will be accepted through January 18, 2020.

The project is located in Churchill County, Nevada, approximately 47 miles northeast of Fallon, Nevada. The proposed Comstock Geothermal Exploration Project would include drilling and testing of up to 10 geothermal wells and access road construction. The project would include approximately 49.2 acres of new disturbance on BLM-administered lands.

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

USA, Washington D.C.: House Energy Sub-Committee Discusses Advanced Geothermal Research and Development Act

Lucas Statement at Energy Subcommittee Markup of Geothermal R&D Act (House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology)

Congressman
Frank Lucas
This morning, I am grateful for the opportunity to discuss my bill, H.R. 5374, the Advanced Geothermal Research and Development Act of 2019, which is co-sponsored by Chairwoman Johnson and authorizes research, development, and demonstration of innovative geothermal energy technologies at the Department of Energy (DOE).

My legislation will provide DOE with critical funding and program direction to enable innovative research in advanced geothermal technologies, strengthen the U.S. geothermal workforce, and encourage international collaboration. More specifically, it will authorize and expand the Department’s early-stage research in enhanced geothermal systems and the major user facilities needed to support this work.

H.R. 5374 will also authorize a new program in advanced geothermal computing and data science R&D. This will leverage DOE’s best-in-the-world computational capabilities to provide geothermal researchers with modeling and simulation tools that will allow them to more accurately understand complex subsurface systems.

Energy Subcommittee Markup of H.R. 2986, H.R. 5374, and H.R. 5428

Science & Technology: Phosphonate Chemistry is Useful in Ultrahigh Geothermal Applications

Novel Phosphonate Proves Useful in Geothermal Environments (Materials Performance)

It is imperative that chemicals used in geothermal applications be environmentally friendly. Governmental pressure is increasingly pushing toward greener chemistries, which creates a challenge to find products that can withstand the extreme environments found in geothermal systems and also be biodegradable.

The biodegradability of the novel phosphonate was evaluated to gauge its suitability for use in Norway. A closed-bottle method was used, involving a predetermined amount of chemical being dissolved into seawater. The solution remained in dark conditions and a constant temperature was maintained. Dissolved oxygen analysis was carried out at specific desired time periods. The results showed that the product is considered biodegradable because testing showed greater than 20% biodegradation after 28 days of testing.

The researchers conclude that the novel phosphonate chemistry is useful in ultrahigh geothermal applications. Its high tolerance to calcium, biodegradability, thermal stability, and good performance against calcium carbonate scaling prove valuable in a variety of environments.

Read More.........

B. McCabe, S. Heath, “Development of a Novel Phosphonate Scale Inhibitor for Scale Control in Geothermal Applications,” CORROSION 2019, paper no. 13275 (Houston, TX: NACE International, 2019).

Japan: Geothermal Power Plant Manufacturers Part Ways

Hitachi Exiting MHPS; MHI Will be Venture’s Sole Owner (Power Mag)

MHPS is a long-term exhibitor at the GRC Annual Meeting & Expo

Japanese technology conglomerate Hitachi will withdraw from Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems (MHPS), a joint venture it established in 2014 with another power equipment giant, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), over a dispute stemming from construction of two massive defect-ridden coal plants in South Africa.

Under a Dec. 18-announced settlement reached by MHI and Hitachi, Hitachi will pay MHI 200 billion yen ($1.8 billion) in March, and transfer its 35% stake in MHPS to MHI, which currently holds the remaining 65%.

The two Japanese giants created the flagship power plant and equipment venture company to combine their thermal power generation businesses in February 2014, with an eye toward gaining more clout in a rapidly changing global power market. MHPS has since grown into a massive company with nearly 19,000 employees, and today is a brand-name builder of gas, steam, integrated coal gasification combined cycle (IGCC), and geothermal plants, and a solid contender in the gas turbine, steam turbine, boiler, environmental controls, generators, control systems, and fuel cell markets.


From the Global Geothermal News archives:

Indonesia: Sumitomo and Engie to Build 220 MW Geothermal Power Plant in Sumatra Starting 2023

Indonesia lures Sumitomo to its geothermal power sources (Nikkei)

Trading house joins with French energy company Engie in renewables projects

Japanese company Sumitomo Corp. has joined geothermal power projects in Indonesia designed to eventually generate 400 megawatts worth of electricity, a small step toward the trading house's long-range goal of deriving 30% of its total power output capacity from renewable sources.

If the projects go well, Sumitomo intends to use them as stepping stones into the geothermal power generation business in the Philippines and the U.S.

As the first of two joint projects in the nation, Sumitomo and its partners this month have begun operating the Muara Laboh geothermal power plant in the central part of Sumatra. The facility was built at a cost of 70 billion yen ($640 million). The 85 MW plant is capable of supplying electricity to 420,000 households. It is Sumitomo's first concession in geothermal power generation.

Sumitomo and Engie of France each own 35% of the plant, with Supreme Energy of Indonesia holding a 30% stake. Power will be supplied to PLN, the Indonesian state-owned electricity utility, at a fixed price for 30 years.

In 2023, Sumitomo will join Engie and other partners in building a geothermal plant capable of generating up to 220 MW in Rajabasa, at the southern tip of Sumatra. Plans are for the plant to begin operating in 2025.

Europe: Geothermal News from EGEC

The EGEC Newsletter December 2019 - The Voice of Geothermal in Europe

The December issue of the European Geothermal Energy Council (EGEC) Newsletter is now available.

Click here to download. In this issue:

Policy
  • Launch of the European Green Deal
  • New factsheet / Geothermal Energy: Embedding lithium production and clean energy-value chains in the EU
  • Coalition of stakeholders calls for an increase in EU climate and energy ambition
  • The DECARB HEAT Initiative is committed to supporting the European Green Deal
News
  • Part of The Hague plans move from natural gas to geothermal district heating
  • Drilling started at geothermal heating project in Paris- Vallée de la Marne, France
  • GEOPRO project receives funding for work on modelling geofluid characteristics
  • Demonstration of thermal energy storage at Kizildere geothermal plant, Turkey
  • Oil & gas firm pledges $390k to clean energy program at Heriot-Watt University in Scotland
  • Netherlands launch code of conduct for environmental involvement in geothermal projects
Projects
  • Decarbonising cities with geothermal district heating: how to finance it?
  • GEORISK Helpdesk for public authorities
  • GEO-ENERGY Europe came to an end, but next phase already planned

USA: Funding Opportunity for Advanced Geothermal Energy Storage

EERE Issues Funding Opportunity Announcement for Phase I Innovation Projects (DOE/EERE/GTO)

Maximum Phase I Award Amount: $200,000 Maximum Phase II Award Amount: $1,100,000

The U.S. Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program issued a Funding Opportunity Announcement for approximately $40 million in Phase I innovation projects for FY2020.

This year’s topics cover key agency priorities such as critical materials, energy storage, grid integration, water security, cybersecurity, and the circular economy.

Of particular interest is the topic on Advanced Geothermal Energy Storage.  The Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO) is focused on significantly increasing geothermal electricity generation and the use of geothermal heat pumps and district heating by 2050. By adding energy storage capability to geothermal resources, the power produced or offset can be dispatched as necessary based on changing grid conditions, further expanding the usage and utility of geothermal energy. Because deploying advanced geothermal energy storage contribute to grid reliability, flexibility, resilience and security, this technology area also supports DOE’s Grid Modernization Initiative. Questions – Contact: William Vandermeer, william.vandermeer@ee.doe.gov

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

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

Education: Latest Issue of International Journal of Geothermal Research and its Applications

Geothermics - Volume 84 , March 2020

Under the auspices of the Geothermal Resources Council, The International Geothermal Association and the CNR-Instituto di Geoscienze e Georisose
More Information.......

Science & Technology: Magnitude and Orientation of the Background Hydraulic Gradient, are Prime Parameters that Affect Lifetime of a Geothermal Reservoir

A numerical sensitivity study of how permeability, porosity, geological structure, and hydraulic gradient control the lifetime of a geothermal reservoir (Solid Earth)

By Johanna F. Bauer, et al
We show, using over 1000 (n=1027) 4-D finite-element models of a simple geothermal doublet, that the lifetime of a reservoir is a complex function of its geological parameters, their heterogeneity, and the background hydraulic gradient (BHG). In our models, we test the effects of porosity, permeability, and BHG in an isotropic medium. Furthermore, we simulate the effect of permeability contrast and anisotropy induced by layering, fractures, and a fault. We quantify the lifetime of the reservoir by measuring the time to thermal breakthrough, i.e. how many years pass before the temperature of the produced fluid falls below the 100 ∘C threshold.

The results of our sensitivity study attest to the positive effect of high porosity; however, high permeability and BHG can combine to outperform the former. Particular configurations of all the parameters can cause either early thermal breakthrough or extreme longevity of the reservoir. For example, the presence of high-permeability fractures, e.g. in a fault damage zone, can provide initially high yields, but it channels fluid flow and therefore dramatically restricts the exploitable reservoir volume.

We demonstrate that the magnitude and orientation of the background hydraulic gradient (BHG), provided permeability is sufficiently high, are the prime parameters that affect the lifetime of a reservoir. Our numerical experiments show also that BHGs (low and high) can be outperformed by comparatively small variations in permeability contrast (103) and fracture-induced permeability anisotropy (101) that thus strongly affect the performance of geothermal reservoirs.

Read More.........

Bauer, J. F., Krumbholz, M., Luijendijk, E., and Tanner, D. C.: A numerical sensitivity study of how permeability, porosity, geological structure, and hydraulic gradient control the lifetime of a geothermal reservoir, Solid Earth, 10, 2115–2135, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-10-2115-2019, 2019.

Science & Technology: Article on Solutions to Materials Challenges in Geothermal

Solutions to Materials Challenges in Geothermal (European Energy Innovation)


Geothermal energy – energy right beneath our feet – has an enormous potential with a proven reliability to meet heating, cooling and flexible electricity...

Read the communication in the winter edition...........

Australia: Current Status of Geothermal Energy in Australia

Interview with Dr. Donald Payne, Australian Geothermal Association (APUEA Magazine)

Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source with significant potential. It is estimated that geothermal energy, including power and heating, has the potential to provide up to 5 percent of the global demand in 2050. To get an insight into the current status of geothermal energy in Australia, Asia Pacific Urban Energy Association (APUEA) advisor Muhammad Ali sat down and had a conversation with Dr. Donald Payne, who recently Co-Led the Australian Geothermal Association (AGA) Census.

Read More.........

Germany: An Assessment of the Potential for Geothermal Energy

Combined heat and power from hydrothermal geothermal resources in Germany: An assessment of the potential (ScienceDirect)

By S.Eyerer, et al.

Highlights:

  • Potential analysis of combined heat and power generation from hydrothermal resources.
  • The total economic potential of geothermal CHP in Germany is 9.1 PWh and 12.5 PWh.
  • Renewable geothermal CHP can contribute to 1.51% of gross electricity demand.
  • Renewable geothermal CHP can contribute to 1.48% of low temperature heating demand.

Combined heat and power from hydrothermal geothermal resources in Germany: An assessment of the potential. S.Eyerera, C.Schifflechnera, S.Hofbauerab, W.Bauerc, C.Wielanda, H.Spliethoffad. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews. Volume 120, March 2020, 109661. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2019.109661

Europe: Map of Projects Boosting Development of Enhanced Geothermal Systems

New Demonstration sites page on the MEET website (MEET project)

The MEET Project aims at boosting the development of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) across Europe in various geological contexts (sedimentary, volcanic, metamorphic and crystalline) by different means.


Europe: Presentations from Decarbonising Cities with Geothermal District Heating Workshop

Decarbonising cities with geothermal district heating: how to finance it? (GEORISK project)

This seminar was organised as a partnership between the European geothermal industry and European local authorities committed to the energy transition to facilitate the uptake of this clean renewable energy technology. In particular, this workshop was organized in the framework of the GEORISK project and the HeatNet NWE project in association with the Covenant of Mayors has aimed at best answering the following issues:
  • Role of local planning in enabling RES investments, notably for heating and cooling
  • Impact of local authorities in enabling the business model of geothermal projects
  • Barriers to deploying geothermal district heating and cooling projects
  • Policy solutions for facilitating deployment of geothermal district heating and cooling
  • Financing geothermal projects
Presentations from the workshop are now available:
Read More.........

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

USA, Washington D.C.: Advanced Geothermal Research and Development Act of 2019 - GRC Letter of Support

GRC Letter of Support for Advanced Geothermal Research and Development Act of 2019

Dear Chairwoman Johnson and Ranking Member Lucas:

On behalf of the geothermal industry we would like to thank you for introducing the “Advanced Geothermal Research and Development Act of 2019”. We strongly support your endeavors to advance geothermal energy as a mainstream source of power and heat across the nation.

As the professional and trade association for the geothermal industry and community, the Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) applauds your leadership in bringing forth the various parts of the act:


USA, California: Internship Opportunities at The Geysers Geothermal Field

Vacancy: Performance Engineering Intern - Calpine at The Geysers

Location: The Geysers power plant near Middletown, California

The Geysers is the largest complex of geothermal power plants in the world. Calpine is the largest geothermal power producer in the US and one of the most reliable energy sources in California accounting for approximately one fifth of the green power produced in California. See www.geysers.com for more information regarding Calpine.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities will include some or all of the following:

Assisting the Geysers Power Plant Process Engineering & Performance Management team with ongoing monitoring, evaluating, and optimizing 1) corrosion mitigation and steam scrubbing systems to achieve required steam purity, 2) plant performance (efficiency and total output), and 3) other projects that improve reliability.

This will be done by gaining hands-on experience in engineering projects, e.g.
  1. Measurement of steam enthalpy with a calorimeter for steam scrubbing / moisture removal efficiency testing and optimization of desuperheat systems. Development of automated reports for pipeline mass balances to track transport and removal of steam impurities for monitoring effectiveness of corrosion mitigation at varying steam flows.
  2. Power plant performance testing, evaluation of test data, and identification and recommendation of opportunities for cycle optimization and equipment upgrades.
  3. Analysis of steam gathering pipeline system and pressure protection in accordance with ASME B31.1 Power Piping Code, and silencer sizing and selection.
  4. Model and recommend opportunities for improvement of condensate gathering and reinjection pipeline system, including replacement pump specification.
The above statements reflect the general details considered necessary to describe the essential functions of the job and are not to be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the position.

New Zealand: Heat Exchanger Delivered to Ngāwhā Geothermal Power Station

The biggest thing on wheels: 'Supertruck' brings 90-tonne heat exchanger to Ngāwhā power station (NZ Herald)

The biggest thing ever transported on Northland roads, which will form a key part of Top Energy's new geothermal power station at Ngāwhā, made a show (and traffic) stopping sight as it rumbled up SH1 last week.

The 90-tonne, 20.5m heat exchanger made was transported on an 18-axle, 144-wheel trailer pulled by two trucks and pushed by a third.

Top Energy chief executive Russell Shaw said the Israeli-built heat exchanger, or pre-heater, would be used to extract energy from geothermal fluid drawn from deep underground. Heat from the fluid would turn pentane into a high-pressure gas, which would spin a series of turbines, which would turn a generator, making electricity.

The new power station is due to start producing electricity in August next year.