For 35 years outstanding contributions in the field of geothermal and solar
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| Prof. T. Harinarayana |
The award was made at the 5th World Renewable Energy Technology Congress & Expo-2014, held on 21-23 August 2014 at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi, India.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
India:
Renewable Energy Award for Gujarat Geothermal Energy Pioneer (The Hindu Business Line)
The Energy and Environment Foundation Global Excellence 2014 Award has been given to T Harinarayana, the Director of Gujarat Energy Research and Management Institute (GERMI). He achieved this award in the Renewable Energy category for his 35 year outstanding contribution in the field of solar and geothermal.
The award was made at the 5th World Renewable Energy Technology Congress & Expo-2014, held on 21-23 August 2014 at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi, India.
The award was made at the 5th World Renewable Energy Technology Congress & Expo-2014, held on 21-23 August 2014 at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi, India.
Indonesia:
President Yudhoyono to Open New Geothermal Power Plants (Indonesia Investments)
Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono will be present at the official launch of four geothermal power plants (the Ulumbu, Ropa, Ndunga and Mataloko plants) on 11 September 2014 on Flores (East Nusa Tenggara).
These plants will supply 20 megawatts of electricity to eight regencies on the island (West Manggarai, Manggarai, East Manggarai, Ngada, Nagekeo, Ende, Sikka and East Flores). Indonesia is estimated to have the world's largest geothermal energy reserves. However, the country only uses a fraction of its geothermal potential.
Read More.....
20 MWe of geothermal energy on Flores island
These plants will supply 20 megawatts of electricity to eight regencies on the island (West Manggarai, Manggarai, East Manggarai, Ngada, Nagekeo, Ende, Sikka and East Flores). Indonesia is estimated to have the world's largest geothermal energy reserves. However, the country only uses a fraction of its geothermal potential.
Read More.....
Philippines:
Unit 1 of BacMan Plant Resumes Operations (GMA News)
The Bacon-Manito (Bac-Man) geothermal plants in the Bicol Region have resumed operations after sustaining damage from Typhoon Glenda, adding 55 MWe to the Luzon grid, Energy Development Corp. said in a disclosure Tuesday.
Bacman's Units 1 and 2 went on unplanned outage last July 15 during the storm, EDC said.
"The typhoon-damaged cooling tower is now operational and Unit 1 has attained its rated load of 55MW," the company said.
Unit 2, meanwhile, is expected to be back online in October.
"The cooling tower restoration works is still ongoing and is being carried out concurrently with the installation of a brand-new Toshiba steam turbine rotor unit and diaphragms," the EDC said.
Earlier, EDC president and COO Richard Tantoco said the plants will contribute to the company's second half revenues when the units return to service.
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| BacMan Geothermal Production Field (Courtesy EDC) |
Bacman's Units 1 and 2 went on unplanned outage last July 15 during the storm, EDC said.
"The typhoon-damaged cooling tower is now operational and Unit 1 has attained its rated load of 55MW," the company said.
Unit 2, meanwhile, is expected to be back online in October.
"The cooling tower restoration works is still ongoing and is being carried out concurrently with the installation of a brand-new Toshiba steam turbine rotor unit and diaphragms," the EDC said.
Earlier, EDC president and COO Richard Tantoco said the plants will contribute to the company's second half revenues when the units return to service.
Finance:
Geothermal Power Producers - Lowest Levelized Cost, Base Load Compatible And A 100-Year History (Seeking Alpha)
- Geothermal power has the lowest levelized costs of all power generating plant designs.
- There are a few smaller companies offering exposure to the geothermal industry.
- Geothermal is the only alternative fuel that is also base load compatible.
Indonesia:
Geothermal Bill Passed (Jakarta Post)
The Indonesian House of Representatives passed the much anticipated-geothermal bill into law in a plenary meeting on Tuesday. In the meeting, all factions agreed to endorse the bill to replace Law No.27/2003 on geothermal energy.
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Jero Wacik praised the passing of the law, saying that it would let geothermal-based development projects expand further.
Jero went on to say that the government’s target to accelerate the development of a second-phase 10,000 MWe of geothermal-based power plants would be reached.
The ministry’s renewable energy and energy conservation director general, Rida Mulyana, said the newly signed law had at least four points that were different to the previous geothermal law. One of the differences was that the government no longer considered geothermal exploration a mining activity, an issue that had long hampered the development of renewable energy potentials.
Most geothermal exploration areas are thought to be located within forestry areas, which are prohibited for any excavation activities. Hampered by obstacles, only 1,300 MW out of total 29,000 MW geothermal energy potential has been tapped.
Read More......
Geothermal exploration no longer considered a mining activity
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Jero Wacik praised the passing of the law, saying that it would let geothermal-based development projects expand further.
Jero went on to say that the government’s target to accelerate the development of a second-phase 10,000 MWe of geothermal-based power plants would be reached.
The ministry’s renewable energy and energy conservation director general, Rida Mulyana, said the newly signed law had at least four points that were different to the previous geothermal law. One of the differences was that the government no longer considered geothermal exploration a mining activity, an issue that had long hampered the development of renewable energy potentials.
Most geothermal exploration areas are thought to be located within forestry areas, which are prohibited for any excavation activities. Hampered by obstacles, only 1,300 MW out of total 29,000 MW geothermal energy potential has been tapped.
Read More......
Monday, August 25, 2014
New Zealand:
The Contact Te Mihi Power Station is Now Available in Minecraft
Welcome to Contact Energy's Te Mihi in Minecraft, an interactive Minecraft map custom built by us for you to explore. Take a journey to Taupō for an exclusive inside look into Te Mihi, a remarkable geothermal power station. Explore dark production wells deep within the earth, or mighty turbines that turn geothermal steam into electricity. Learn about this incredible renewable energy source and how it is harnessed to power our cities. The world of Te Mihi in Minecraft offers endless exploration, hidden treasures and unique discoveries within this New Zealand landmark.
Welcome to Contact Energy's Te Mihi in Minecraft, an interactive Minecraft map custom built by us for you to explore. Take a journey to Taupō for an exclusive inside look into Te Mihi, a remarkable geothermal power station. Explore dark production wells deep within the earth, or mighty turbines that turn geothermal steam into electricity. Learn about this incredible renewable energy source and how it is harnessed to power our cities. The world of Te Mihi in Minecraft offers endless exploration, hidden treasures and unique discoveries within this New Zealand landmark.
USA, California:
Fitch Downgrades Coso Geothermal Power Holdings LLC's 2007 Pass-Through Trust Certificates to 'C' (Benzinga)
Fitch Ratings has downgraded the rating on Coso Geothermal Power Holdings LLC's (Coso) $629 million ($455 million outstanding) pass through certificates due 2026 from 'CC' to 'C'.
The rating downgrade to 'C' is based on Fitch's expectation that the project will fail to meet a pari passu reimbursement obligation under a drawn letter of credit (LC) due in November 2014. Failure to meet the LC obligation would trigger a technical default of the pass-through trust certificates, and a payment default shortly thereafter appears imminent.
Read More.....
Fitch Ratings has downgraded the rating on Coso Geothermal Power Holdings LLC's (Coso) $629 million ($455 million outstanding) pass through certificates due 2026 from 'CC' to 'C'.
The rating downgrade to 'C' is based on Fitch's expectation that the project will fail to meet a pari passu reimbursement obligation under a drawn letter of credit (LC) due in November 2014. Failure to meet the LC obligation would trigger a technical default of the pass-through trust certificates, and a payment default shortly thereafter appears imminent.
Read More.....
Global:
The Geothermal Resources Council 2014 Amateur Photo Contest - Deadline August 31
The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) reminds contestants that the deadline for this year’s Amateur Photo Contest is August 31. The purpose of the contest is to showcase quality photography featuring geothermal energy around the world.
The winners will be announced at the GRC Annual Member Meeting and Awards Luncheon, the climax to the 38th GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo being held at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Oregon, USA from September 28 –October 1. The theme for this year’s meeting is “Geothermal: A Global Solution”.
The first place winner will receive $150, second place - $100, and third place - $75. Honorable Mention photos will receive certificates.
Photographs on any subject related to geothermal energy can be submitted such as geothermal energy production, EGS, Direct Use and geothermal heat pumps. These can include photos of well testing, drilling, operation of geothermal equipment, newly developed equipment, or plant operation, construction of a geothermal plant or plant site, and geological areas or surface manifestations (holding potential for geothermal exploration or development).
More information on the GRC Amateur Photo Contest, including a submission form, can be found on the GRC website [www.geothermal.org]. The deadline for submissions is August 31, 2014.
The 35th Amateur Photo Contest winners will be announced at the GRC Annual Meeting in Portland, Oregon, USA.
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1st Place 2013: "Geothermal Sheep" by Hildur lngvarsdottir, Reykjavik, Iceland. |
The winners will be announced at the GRC Annual Member Meeting and Awards Luncheon, the climax to the 38th GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo being held at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Oregon, USA from September 28 –October 1. The theme for this year’s meeting is “Geothermal: A Global Solution”.
The first place winner will receive $150, second place - $100, and third place - $75. Honorable Mention photos will receive certificates.
Photographs on any subject related to geothermal energy can be submitted such as geothermal energy production, EGS, Direct Use and geothermal heat pumps. These can include photos of well testing, drilling, operation of geothermal equipment, newly developed equipment, or plant operation, construction of a geothermal plant or plant site, and geological areas or surface manifestations (holding potential for geothermal exploration or development).
More information on the GRC Amateur Photo Contest, including a submission form, can be found on the GRC website [www.geothermal.org]. The deadline for submissions is August 31, 2014.
Indonesia:
Patuha Plant Under Trial, Sarulla to Start Drilling Operations (Jakarta Post)
The development of two major geothermal power plant projects has been progressing well in recent months, and one of the projects is expected to begin commercial operations before the end of this year, says an official.
The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry’s renewable energy director general, Rida Mulyana, said among a number of geothermal projects, most of which are stalled for various reasons, the first 55 MWe unit of the Patuha geothermal power plant was expected to start delivering electricity before the end of this year.
The other giant 3x110 MW geothermal power plant project, Sarulla, located in North Tapanuli, North Sumatra, would begin its well-drilling operations later this month, he added.
Read More.....
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Patuha Unit 1 project
(Courtesy PT Geo Dipa Energi)
|
The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry’s renewable energy director general, Rida Mulyana, said among a number of geothermal projects, most of which are stalled for various reasons, the first 55 MWe unit of the Patuha geothermal power plant was expected to start delivering electricity before the end of this year.
The other giant 3x110 MW geothermal power plant project, Sarulla, located in North Tapanuli, North Sumatra, would begin its well-drilling operations later this month, he added.
Read More.....
USA, California:
Geothermal Power Steaming Over Wind and Solar Energies (Forbes)
All the talk about the government subsidies given to the various energy forms has one fuel source steaming: geothermal power, which ranks fourth among all renewable energies in terms of total capacity — after wind, solar and hydro.
Geothermal stands in the shadows of the higher profile green energies, both literally and figuratively. In actuality, energy is captured and then extracted from deep underground with the steam used to generate electricity. Because the heat that is contained at the earth’s core is limitless, it is a sustainable energy form and one that — unlike wind and solar — is not contingent on the weather.
Most of the geothermal is concentrated in the western United States, with California having 80 percent of that total share. To this end, the state has a renewable portfolio standard that requires its incumbent utilities to provide at least a third of their electricity from renewable sources by 2020.
But Calpine Corp., which owns and operates geothermal facilities that are just north of San Francisco, says that California’s regulatory structure hurts new investment geothermal facilities. Altogether, it generates 725 megawatts in The Geysers, which has 1,517 megawatts of installed geothermal capacity.
The company would like to modernize its operations in The Geysers, if it is able to enter into long term power contracts with the utilities that must comply with the portfolio requirements. Utilities, though, are inclined to buy wind and solar energies that have more tax advantages.
Read More......
All the talk about the government subsidies given to the various energy forms has one fuel source steaming: geothermal power, which ranks fourth among all renewable energies in terms of total capacity — after wind, solar and hydro.
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| The Sonoma Power Plant, The Geysers, California, USA |
Most of the geothermal is concentrated in the western United States, with California having 80 percent of that total share. To this end, the state has a renewable portfolio standard that requires its incumbent utilities to provide at least a third of their electricity from renewable sources by 2020.
But Calpine Corp., which owns and operates geothermal facilities that are just north of San Francisco, says that California’s regulatory structure hurts new investment geothermal facilities. Altogether, it generates 725 megawatts in The Geysers, which has 1,517 megawatts of installed geothermal capacity.
The company would like to modernize its operations in The Geysers, if it is able to enter into long term power contracts with the utilities that must comply with the portfolio requirements. Utilities, though, are inclined to buy wind and solar energies that have more tax advantages.
Read More......
Tanzania:
Five Year Plan Calls for 200 MWe Geothermal Energy (East African Business Week)
Tanzania's Power System Master Plan for the years 2012 to 2017 will require short term financing of $11.4 billion.
The blueprint shows that in short term it requires $11.4 billion - about $1.9 billion per annum of which 73.5% is for generation.
The newly released energy blueprint dubbed Electricity Supply Industry Reform Strategy and Roadmap 2014-2025 (PDF), shows that the government hopes to increase installed generation capacity from the current 1,583 MW to over 10,000 MW.
The blueprint shows that nearly 4,000 MW will be generated from natural gas and 200 MW from geothermal.
About 24% of the Mainland Tanzanian population is connected with electricity services of which 7% is in rural areas. Demand for electricity is on average growing between 10% and 15% per annum.
To achieve the desired socio-economic transformation, Tanzania aims to increase connection levels to 30% by 2015, 50% by 2025 and more than 75% by 2033.
Read More.....
The blueprint shows that nearly 200 MW will be generated from geothermal energy
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
The blueprint shows that in short term it requires $11.4 billion - about $1.9 billion per annum of which 73.5% is for generation.
The newly released energy blueprint dubbed Electricity Supply Industry Reform Strategy and Roadmap 2014-2025 (PDF), shows that the government hopes to increase installed generation capacity from the current 1,583 MW to over 10,000 MW.
The blueprint shows that nearly 4,000 MW will be generated from natural gas and 200 MW from geothermal.
About 24% of the Mainland Tanzanian population is connected with electricity services of which 7% is in rural areas. Demand for electricity is on average growing between 10% and 15% per annum.
To achieve the desired socio-economic transformation, Tanzania aims to increase connection levels to 30% by 2015, 50% by 2025 and more than 75% by 2033.
Read More.....
Philippines:
Leyte Geothermal Power Plant Bidders to Take Over Capacity by Year End (BusinessWorld Online Edition)
PSALM auctioned off ULGPP’s contracted capacity in “strips” and “bulk,” with the state-run firm offering a total of 200 MW for strips of energy and the remaining capacity for the bulk energy.
These bidders were: Unified Leyte Geothermal Energy, Inc. (ULGEI) for 40 MW; FDC Utilities, Inc. (40 MW); Trans-Asia Oil and Energy Development Corp. (40 MW); Aboitiz Energy Solutions, Inc. (40 MW); Good Friends Hydro Resources Corp. (20 MW); Vivant Energy Corp. (17 MW); and Waterfront Mactan Casino Hotel Inc. (3 MW).
As independent power producer administrators, winning firms will manage the contracted output of the power plant, which is to be traded at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market.
Turnover of the contracted capacities of the plant was not done immediately because the ULGPP was damaged by typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan) when it hit the Visayas last year.
The ULGPP complex -- which straddles Ormoc City and municipality of Kananga -- is composed of the 125-MW Upper Mahiao plant, 232.5-MW Malitbog plant, 180-MW Mahanagdong plant, and 51-MW optimization plants.
The remaining capacity of the plant -- representing the bulk energy -- was supposed to be handed over ULGEI but the company withdrew its bid, also citing damage caused by the typhoon.
Read More......
Winning bidders can start earning from the privatized segment of the Unified Leyte geothermal power plant (ULGPP) next year with the turnover of the contracted capacities of the plant expected by year’s end.
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
These bidders were: Unified Leyte Geothermal Energy, Inc. (ULGEI) for 40 MW; FDC Utilities, Inc. (40 MW); Trans-Asia Oil and Energy Development Corp. (40 MW); Aboitiz Energy Solutions, Inc. (40 MW); Good Friends Hydro Resources Corp. (20 MW); Vivant Energy Corp. (17 MW); and Waterfront Mactan Casino Hotel Inc. (3 MW).
As independent power producer administrators, winning firms will manage the contracted output of the power plant, which is to be traded at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market.
Turnover of the contracted capacities of the plant was not done immediately because the ULGPP was damaged by typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan) when it hit the Visayas last year.
The ULGPP complex -- which straddles Ormoc City and municipality of Kananga -- is composed of the 125-MW Upper Mahiao plant, 232.5-MW Malitbog plant, 180-MW Mahanagdong plant, and 51-MW optimization plants.
The remaining capacity of the plant -- representing the bulk energy -- was supposed to be handed over ULGEI but the company withdrew its bid, also citing damage caused by the typhoon.
Read More......
USA: Oregon, Washington, California:
Northwest Researchers Work To Boost Geothermal Power (KUOW News and Information)
There’s been a lot of hype around geothermal power, which uses heat from the below the earth’s surface to provide a steady, renewable source of energy. But the sector has been slow to take off, even though the U.S. is the world's top producer of geothermal energy.
With help from federal grants, several Northwest researchers are hoping to push the technology forward.
Geothermal power fills in a lot of gaps left by other renewable energy sources. It doesn’t depend on the weather, like wind and solar power. It can provide a steady stream of energy, ready when you flick the light switch.
But many proposed geothermal projects in the Northwest, and across the country, have yet to really take off.
Updates from research projects in the U.S. Northwest will be presented at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Expo, September 28-October 1 at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Oregon, USA.
Read More......
Companies and Institutions in Washington, Oregon and Northern California further the cause
With help from federal grants, several Northwest researchers are hoping to push the technology forward.
Geothermal power fills in a lot of gaps left by other renewable energy sources. It doesn’t depend on the weather, like wind and solar power. It can provide a steady stream of energy, ready when you flick the light switch.
But many proposed geothermal projects in the Northwest, and across the country, have yet to really take off.
Updates from research projects in the U.S. Northwest will be presented at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Expo, September 28-October 1 at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Oregon, USA.
Read More......
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Global:
Early Bird Registration Deadline for GRC Annual Meeting is This Week
Save $100 by registering before midnight on Saturday
The deadline for early-bird rates for registration for the international geothermal event of the year is this Saturday, August 30. The GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo will bring together geothermal companies, academics, financiers, policy leaders, students, and other individuals to attend or exhibit at the event, to be held from September 28 to October 1 at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Oregon, USA.
Early birds who register before August 30 pay only $695 as GRC members or $795 if non-members. The non-member registration includes GRC membership through 2015. Students with a current identification card from an accredited institution pay just $5 which also includes GRC membership through 2015. Registration to the GRC Annual Meeting also includes entry to the GEA Energy Expo.
Friday, August 22, 2014
Rwanda:
Unlocking the Potential of Geothermal Energy in Rwanda (Imperial College News)
Whilst in Rwanda he became aware of the potential of geothermal energy in the country’s Virunga Mountains, which is actually a series of dormant volcanoes sitting on the edge of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, where two tectonic plates are slowly being pulled apart. This type of geothermal energy basically involves drilling deep into volcanically active regions with the aim of finding groundwater at high temperatures and pressures that can be used to produce steam to drive turbines.
The international community is providing funding for additional exploratory boreholes, but there is a need to better hone the geological model of the area to increase the likelihood of success. And that’s where Leo saw an opportunity to make a contribution.
His first job out in Rwanda was to access recent survey data that was not available online and stored in the capital Kigali, particularly on the recent drilling program. Given that he still had some government contacts in Kigali from his previous work there, Leo was able to obtain and analyse these records.
Read More.....
Postgraduate student Leo Peskett, Basu Civil Engineering Prize winner, talks about his summer field trip to Rwanda to investigate geothermal energy.
The international community is providing funding for additional exploratory boreholes, but there is a need to better hone the geological model of the area to increase the likelihood of success. And that’s where Leo saw an opportunity to make a contribution.
His first job out in Rwanda was to access recent survey data that was not available online and stored in the capital Kigali, particularly on the recent drilling program. Given that he still had some government contacts in Kigali from his previous work there, Leo was able to obtain and analyse these records.
Read More.....
Ethiopia:
Aluto Langano Project Request for Expression of Interest - Submission Date Extended
Geothermal Sector Development Project (GSDP) Loan/Credit No: IDA 54680
Assignment Title: Technical Advisory Services for the drilling of 22 geothermal wells at Aluto Langano
Reference No. WB3045-06/14 of June 10/2014
Ethiopian Electric Power has received a credit from the International Development Association (IDA), and intends to apply part of the proceeds of this credit for procurement of Drilling and Other Technical Advisory Services/Owner’s Engineer with on site Advisor and off-site advisor committee/. Such services which shall be provided over a period of approximately three years include provision of an on-site drilling specialist (Company Engineer) to serve as the technical drilling advisor to the geothermal project manager and the establishment and provision of a Technical Panel to consist of a reservoir engineer, senior geologist, senior geochemist and senior geophysicist who will serve as advisors to EEP management.
The EOI in the Geothermal Sector Development Project must be delivered by 4th September
Geothermal Sector Development Project (GSDP) Loan/Credit No: IDA 54680
Assignment Title: Technical Advisory Services for the drilling of 22 geothermal wells at Aluto Langano
Reference No. WB3045-06/14 of June 10/2014
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
Mexico:
New Legal Framework For Mexico's Electric Power Industry (Mondaq News Alerts)
Further to the Mexican Energy Constitutional Amendments approved on December 12, 2013, President Enrique Peña Nieto signed decrees enacting Secondary Laws for Mexico's Energy Reform. Published in the Federal Official Gazette on August 11, 2014, this new legislation consists of nine new laws and 12 amendments to existing laws.
Highlights of the secondary laws focusing on the electric power sector include:
New Geothermic Energy Law will regulate the exploration and development of geothermal resources
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
Further to the Mexican Energy Constitutional Amendments approved on December 12, 2013, President Enrique Peña Nieto signed decrees enacting Secondary Laws for Mexico's Energy Reform. Published in the Federal Official Gazette on August 11, 2014, this new legislation consists of nine new laws and 12 amendments to existing laws.
Highlights of the secondary laws focusing on the electric power sector include:
- The Geothermic Energy Law will regulate the exploration and development of geothermal resources in Mexico, both for the electricity sector and otherwise. Private parties may obtain the exclusive right to develop a geothermal field for a period of up to 30 years, through a concession granted by the Secretaría de Energía.
- Newly independent production, transmission, distribution, purchase, sale and supply activities in the electricity industry ensure open access and efficient operation in the electric sector.
- Generation, purchase and sale of electricity are now open to free competition, and private investment is now allowed.
- The Comisión Federal de Electricidad ("CFE") was transformed into a State Productive Entity, responsible for public electric power transmission and distribution services. The proposed legal scheme contemplates contracts between CFE and private parties, in which the private parties contribute technology and experience to expand and improve Mexico's transmission and distribution networks.
- The Electric Industry Law distinguishes between a "Producer" and an "Exempt Producer" on the basis of installed capacity. Additionally, based on their electricity consumption, users are classified as "Basic Users" and "Qualified Users."
- Suppliers are required to obtain a permit from the Comision Reguladora de Energia ("CRE") to provide services and must execute supply agreements with final users using forms approved by CRE.
USA, California:
California Lawmakers Weigh Controversial Energy Bill (Natural Gas Intelligence)
An effort by utility unions and other stakeholders is under way in the waning days of the California legislature's current session that could mandate an expanded market for geothermal power generation at the expense of existing natural gas-fired and renewable-based generation.
As the state lawmakers begin their last few days of this year's session, which is scheduled to adjourn Aug. 31, a proposal from a San Diego state senator (SB 1139) is attempting to force the state's three major private-sector electric utilities to collectively buy an additional 500 MW of geothermal energy from the Imperial Valley in the far southeast corner of California, which is part of Sen. Ben Hueso's district.
Representatives on both sides of the issue were waiting Thursday for a vote by the full lower house Assembly in the next day or so. From there it would go back to the state Senate for concurrence.
Read More......
SB1139 - California Renewables Portfolio Standard Program is due to be read for a third and final time
As the state lawmakers begin their last few days of this year's session, which is scheduled to adjourn Aug. 31, a proposal from a San Diego state senator (SB 1139) is attempting to force the state's three major private-sector electric utilities to collectively buy an additional 500 MW of geothermal energy from the Imperial Valley in the far southeast corner of California, which is part of Sen. Ben Hueso's district.
Representatives on both sides of the issue were waiting Thursday for a vote by the full lower house Assembly in the next day or so. From there it would go back to the state Senate for concurrence.
Read More......
Thursday, August 21, 2014
USA, California:
California Geothermal Grant and Loan Program Awards Announced
The Notice of Proposed Awards for Program Opportunity Notice PON-13-507 Geothermal Grant and Loan Program (GRDA) has been made available by the California Energy Commission.
$5,800,000 in grant funding is to be awarded to four recipients:
The applications were screened, reviewed, evaluated and scored using the criteria prescribed in the solicitation. Based on the Evaluation Committee’s scores, the Energy Commission proposes to award funding to four applicants. The attached table titled “Notice of Proposed Awards and Results of Submitted Proposals” identifies each of the applicants recommended to receive funding, the project title, the recommended amount of Energy Commission funding, and scoring information.
Read More......
The Notice of Proposed Awards for Program Opportunity Notice PON-13-507 Geothermal Grant and Loan Program (GRDA) has been made available by the California Energy Commission.
$5,800,000 in grant funding is to be awarded to four recipients:
Read More......
Africa:
Africa to Add More Renewables in 2014 Than Past 14 Years (Bloomberg)
Growing demand for electricity and falling costs for wind and solar power mean more renewable-energy projects will be commissioned this year in sub-Saharan Africa than were added from 2000 through 2013.
About 1.8 gigawatts of capacity, excluding large hydroelectric power plants, will be added in 2014, the London-based research firm Bloomberg New Energy Finance said today in a statement. Investment in countries including South Africa, Kenya and Ethiopia is estimated at $5.9 billion this year, and may reach $7.7 billion in 2016. Average annual investment from 2006 through 2011 was $1 billion.
“What is different now is the breadth of activity, with wind, solar and geothermal exciting interest in many different countries, and the potential for further growth,” Victoria Cuming, a Bloomberg New Energy Finance analyst, said in the statement.
Geothermal, wind and both small- and utility-scale solar projects will lead the way as “renewables can represent a cost-effective alternative, particularly compared to diesel generation but also to power stations burning coal or gas,” according to the statement.
About 3.9 gigawatts of renewable energy, mostly wind and solar, is estimated to be installed in South Africa from 2014 through 2016. Over that period, Kenya is expected to add 1.4 gigawatts while Ethiopia will install 570 megawatts of primarily geothermal and wind capacity.
Read More.....
Geothermal, wind and both small- and utility-scale solar projects will lead the way
About 1.8 gigawatts of capacity, excluding large hydroelectric power plants, will be added in 2014, the London-based research firm Bloomberg New Energy Finance said today in a statement. Investment in countries including South Africa, Kenya and Ethiopia is estimated at $5.9 billion this year, and may reach $7.7 billion in 2016. Average annual investment from 2006 through 2011 was $1 billion.
“What is different now is the breadth of activity, with wind, solar and geothermal exciting interest in many different countries, and the potential for further growth,” Victoria Cuming, a Bloomberg New Energy Finance analyst, said in the statement.
Geothermal, wind and both small- and utility-scale solar projects will lead the way as “renewables can represent a cost-effective alternative, particularly compared to diesel generation but also to power stations burning coal or gas,” according to the statement.
About 3.9 gigawatts of renewable energy, mostly wind and solar, is estimated to be installed in South Africa from 2014 through 2016. Over that period, Kenya is expected to add 1.4 gigawatts while Ethiopia will install 570 megawatts of primarily geothermal and wind capacity.
Read More.....
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
East Africa:
African Geothermal Project Gets Funded (National Science Foundation)
Project will map multiple geothermal areas and identify new forms of geothermal activity across Ethiopia, Tanzania and Kenya.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) today announced 39 new research projects that advance the scientific and technical capacity of both the United States and countries in critical areas of development.
The projects, spanning 23 countries, are funded through the Partnerships for Enhanced Engagement in Research (PEER) Science program, a joint initiative designed to foster collaborative global research. Through the competitively awarded program, USAID directly supports researchers in developing countries who work with NSF-funded U.S. scientists.
The 39 new PEER awards include a GeoPower Africa project in East Africa that will map multiple geothermal areas and identify new forms of geothermal activity across Ethiopia, Tanzania and Kenya. The project will work to build a strong regional framework for scientific and technological exchange, while empowering and educating local pastoral communities. The project is led by Nicholas Mariita, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, with Tesfaye Kidane Birke, Addis Ababa University, and Gabriel Mbogoni, Geological Survey of Tanzania. The U.S. Partner is Cynthia Ebinger, University of Rochester.
Global:
The Latest News from the Leading Geothermal Energy Magazine
The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) has made available the latest GRC Bulletin, the definitive voice of the global geothermal energy industry, published continuously since 1972.
A free article from the GRC Bulletin - Volume 43, No. 4 - July/August 2014
The Bulletin is free with GRC Membership or subscribe (PDF) to six issues a year for $90 in the USA or $140 worldwide.
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USA:
Renewable Energy Provides 100% Of New U.S. Power In July (North American Windpower)
All new U.S. electrical generating capacity put into service in July came from renewable energy sources, according to the latest Energy Infrastructure Update report from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).
For the first seven months of this year, renewables have accounted for more than half (53.8%) of the 4,758 MW of new U.S. electrical capacity that has entered service, with solar (25.8%) and wind (25.1%) each accounting for more than a quarter of the total. In addition, biomass provided 1.8%, geothermal 0.7% and hydropower 0.4%. There were 5 new geothermal energy units brought on line for a total of 35 MW.
Renewable energy sources now account for 16.3% of total installed operating generating capacity in the U.S.: hydro - 8.57%, wind - 5.26%, biomass - 1.37%, solar - 0.75%, and geothermal steam - 0.33% (3.87 GW installed capacity).
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There is now 3.87 GW installed capacity of geothermal energy in the U.S.
For the first seven months of this year, renewables have accounted for more than half (53.8%) of the 4,758 MW of new U.S. electrical capacity that has entered service, with solar (25.8%) and wind (25.1%) each accounting for more than a quarter of the total. In addition, biomass provided 1.8%, geothermal 0.7% and hydropower 0.4%. There were 5 new geothermal energy units brought on line for a total of 35 MW.
Renewable energy sources now account for 16.3% of total installed operating generating capacity in the U.S.: hydro - 8.57%, wind - 5.26%, biomass - 1.37%, solar - 0.75%, and geothermal steam - 0.33% (3.87 GW installed capacity).
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Tuesday, August 19, 2014
New Zealand:
Geothermal Energy Lifts Mighty River Profits (Otago Daily Times)
Mighty River Power will pay an increased dividend of 13.5 cents a share after this morning reporting a sharp increase in operating earnings and a $97 million lift in full year profit to $212 million, a 84 percent rise.
The partially privatized former state owned enterprise said its result was above initial public offering forecasts of early last year.
It said earnings from its expanded range of geothermal power stations including from the new Ngatamariki station – which took geothermal production to 42% of the company’s total, contributed to the result.
The lift in earnings came in spite of the year to June being marked by the worst hydro inflows into the Waikato River hydro catchment in the company's history.
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Increase in revenue from geothermal energy makes up for reduced hydropower resources
The partially privatized former state owned enterprise said its result was above initial public offering forecasts of early last year.
It said earnings from its expanded range of geothermal power stations including from the new Ngatamariki station – which took geothermal production to 42% of the company’s total, contributed to the result.
The lift in earnings came in spite of the year to June being marked by the worst hydro inflows into the Waikato River hydro catchment in the company's history.
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Tanzania:
New Geothermal Firm Established (AllAfrica)
Blessed with the potential to generate over 4,000 megawatts of electricity from geothermal sources, the Tanzanian government has formed a company to steer the country into effectively and beneficially tapping it.
Operating as a subsidiary of Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco), the Tanzania Geothermal Development Company started operations in July this year, according to the Energy and Minerals Minister, Professor Sospeter Muhongo.
"We have huge potential in geothermal since Tanzania has the largest share of the East Africa's Rift Valley system. I should admit that we have delayed to make use of this opportunity," Prof Muhongo has told the 'Daily News' in an interview.
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Operating as a subsidiary of Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco), the Tanzania Geothermal Development Company started operations in July this year, according to the Energy and Minerals Minister, Professor Sospeter Muhongo.
"We have huge potential in geothermal since Tanzania has the largest share of the East Africa's Rift Valley system. I should admit that we have delayed to make use of this opportunity," Prof Muhongo has told the 'Daily News' in an interview.
Read More.....
USA, Hawaii:
Puna Geothermal Venture Plant Coming Back Online (West Hawaii Today)
Hawaii County Civil Defense reports Monday evening that Puna Geothermal Venture’s Pohoiki plant in Puna is in the process of returning to operation after shutting down Aug. 7 as Tropical Storm Iselle approached the Big Island.
Civil Defense says residents should expect to hear the sounds of normal plant operation. The plant should be in full operation by the end of the week.
The plant was shutdown after transmission lines were disrupted by fallen trees, Mike Kaleikini, PGV senior director of Hawaiian affairs, told Stephens Media Hawaii on Aug. 8. The release of steam, which includes hydrogen sulfide, occurs as a safety measure.
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Ormat Plant had shut down as Tropical Storm Approached
Hawaii County Civil Defense reports Monday evening that Puna Geothermal Venture’s Pohoiki plant in Puna is in the process of returning to operation after shutting down Aug. 7 as Tropical Storm Iselle approached the Big Island.Civil Defense says residents should expect to hear the sounds of normal plant operation. The plant should be in full operation by the end of the week.
The plant was shutdown after transmission lines were disrupted by fallen trees, Mike Kaleikini, PGV senior director of Hawaiian affairs, told Stephens Media Hawaii on Aug. 8. The release of steam, which includes hydrogen sulfide, occurs as a safety measure.
Read More.....
Caribbean:
The Caribbean Goes Geothermal (OZY)
Forget the white-sand beaches and astonishing biodiversity. The Caribbean’s real treasure might be buried deep, deep underground, in the form of steam and piping-hot water — in other words, geothermal energy.
Caribbean islands could help lead the way in weaning us from fossil fuels by tapping into heat energy deep within the Earth.
Forget the white-sand beaches and astonishing biodiversity. The Caribbean’s real treasure might be buried deep, deep underground, in the form of steam and piping-hot water — in other words, geothermal energy.
In recent years, the Antilles, lesser and greater, has emerged as a hub for geothermal energy exploration. Nevis and St. Vincent are soon to host private geothermal investment projects. The European Union recently awarded Dominica a $10.3 million grant to jump-start geothermal energy development. And on the eastern Caribbean island of Montserrat, geologists are using cutting-edge techniques to map the rocky subterranean surfaces below.
The stakes are high. If the region can harness the power of its heat — and it’s a big if — a nearly endless supply of energy could reward it. That, in turn, would free up billions of dollars Caribbean countries spend importing diesel, which fuels most of its power plants. Aruba, for instance, spends a staggering 16 percent of its GDP on diesel.
Indonesia:
Societe Generale Arranges US$1.17b for Sarulla Geothermal Project (The Star Online)
Societe Generale Corporate & Investment Banking (SG CIB) has closed the US$1.17bil senior project financing for the massive Sarulla geothermal project in northern Sumatra, Indonesia.
When completed in 2018, the Sarulla geothermal power plant would be the world's largest “greenfield” geothermal power generation project.
The project involves building a 351 gross megawatt geothermal power station, commercial production of which is expected to begin in 2016.
SG CIB served as the "technical bank," coordinating both reserves and technical consultants and conducting due diligence. The bank also played a critical role in structuring the deal. The transaction achieved financial close in May 2014.
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When completed in 2018, the Sarulla geothermal power plant would be the world's largest “greenfield” geothermal power generation project.
The project involves building a 351 gross megawatt geothermal power station, commercial production of which is expected to begin in 2016.
SG CIB served as the "technical bank," coordinating both reserves and technical consultants and conducting due diligence. The bank also played a critical role in structuring the deal. The transaction achieved financial close in May 2014.
Read More.....
Saudi Arabia:
Saudi Arabia Aims for 1000 MW of Geothermal by 2032 (pv magazine)
An agreement signed last week in Beijing saw the state-owned Chinese National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) partner with the Saudi energy research center, King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (K. A. CARE) to cooperate on the development of renewable and nuclear energy in the Middle East nation.
"Overall demand for fossil fuels for power, industry, transportation and desalination is estimated to grow from 3.4 million barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2010 to 8.3 million barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2028," said a K. A. CARE statement.
Saudi Arabia hopes to steer a greater share of that output to its export markets over the next few decades, but K. A. CARE confirmed that hydrocarbons will remain a "prime element" of the country's energy mix up to and beyond 2032. By that date, the program’s recommendations are 60 GW of hydrocarbon, 41 GW of solar power (of which 16 GW will be PV and 25 GW CSP), 17.6 GW nuclear, 9 GW wind, 3 GW waste-to-energy and 1 GW geothermal.
"In this scenario, nuclear, geothermal and waste-to-energy will provide the base load up to night-time demand during winter; PV energy will meet total daytime demand year round; CSP with storage will meet the maximum demand difference between PV and base-load technologies, and hydrocarbons will meet the remaining demand;" said K. A. CARE.
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"Overall demand for fossil fuels for power, industry, transportation and desalination is estimated to grow from 3.4 million barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2010 to 8.3 million barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2028," said a K. A. CARE statement.
Saudi Arabia hopes to steer a greater share of that output to its export markets over the next few decades, but K. A. CARE confirmed that hydrocarbons will remain a "prime element" of the country's energy mix up to and beyond 2032. By that date, the program’s recommendations are 60 GW of hydrocarbon, 41 GW of solar power (of which 16 GW will be PV and 25 GW CSP), 17.6 GW nuclear, 9 GW wind, 3 GW waste-to-energy and 1 GW geothermal.
"In this scenario, nuclear, geothermal and waste-to-energy will provide the base load up to night-time demand during winter; PV energy will meet total daytime demand year round; CSP with storage will meet the maximum demand difference between PV and base-load technologies, and hydrocarbons will meet the remaining demand;" said K. A. CARE.
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Monday, August 18, 2014
New Zealand:
Delay to Geothermal Power Plant on Maori Land (Radio New Zealand)
Plans for a new geothermal power station on Maori land is unlikely to go ahead for a few years, due to a reduction in electricity consumption.
Contact Energy is to build a plant on the Tauhara geothermal steamfield, north-east of Taupo, which would generate enough electricity to power about 270,000 homes.
When the project was first designed, the company intended to have the site operational by January next year.
But Contact Energy chief executive Dennis Barnes said the market is not right to build the power station, and supply and demand figures suggest that an investment is a good few years away. Mr Barnes said the sector believes that geothermal energy is the next most competitive source of electricity supply for New Zealand.
Contact Energy has entered into a commercial arrangement with Tauhara Moana Trust, the owners of the land where the power station will be built, he said.
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| Tauhara Moana Trust lands |
Contact Energy is to build a plant on the Tauhara geothermal steamfield, north-east of Taupo, which would generate enough electricity to power about 270,000 homes.
When the project was first designed, the company intended to have the site operational by January next year.
But Contact Energy chief executive Dennis Barnes said the market is not right to build the power station, and supply and demand figures suggest that an investment is a good few years away. Mr Barnes said the sector believes that geothermal energy is the next most competitive source of electricity supply for New Zealand.
Contact Energy has entered into a commercial arrangement with Tauhara Moana Trust, the owners of the land where the power station will be built, he said.
Turkey:
U.S.–Turkey Geothermal Workshop
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is sponsoring a two day workshop in Ankara, focusing on the geothermal sector in Turkey. The purpose of the event is to introduce and connect public and private sector representatives from both Turkish and U.S. geothermal sectors. This Workshop will highlight geothermal project opportunities for future U.S. - Turkish partnerships as well as discuss new government and regulatory initiatives, showcase state-of-the-art U.S. technology and associated best practices for project implementation and review project finance resources for geothermal development.
The Webster Group is organizing the Workshop on behalf of USTDA. For more information on the event, please contact the Operation Manager, AJ Bownas, by e-mail at aj@webstergroupinc.com or by phone at 202-237-0090 ext. 37.
October 21-22, 2014, Ankara, Turkey
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is sponsoring a two day workshop in Ankara, focusing on the geothermal sector in Turkey. The purpose of the event is to introduce and connect public and private sector representatives from both Turkish and U.S. geothermal sectors. This Workshop will highlight geothermal project opportunities for future U.S. - Turkish partnerships as well as discuss new government and regulatory initiatives, showcase state-of-the-art U.S. technology and associated best practices for project implementation and review project finance resources for geothermal development.
The Webster Group is organizing the Workshop on behalf of USTDA. For more information on the event, please contact the Operation Manager, AJ Bownas, by e-mail at aj@webstergroupinc.com or by phone at 202-237-0090 ext. 37.
USA, California:
A Tipped Scale in California: Time to See the True Value of Geothermal (Renewable Energy World.com)
In 2004, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) passed the least-cost best fit (LCBF) rule as part of California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) procurement. This statute required utilities to select renewable resources that have the lowest cost and that best fit their system needs.
While this rule had good intentions, it also had unintended side effects. While it meant to clarify which renewables should be selected to meet California’s RPS and ensure the stability and reliability of California’s electrical grid, it created a system that tipped the scale toward certain renewables while leaving out others. Over the past few years, procurement of resources such as wind, solar thermal, and solar PV has gone up dramatically, while the procurement of baseload geothermal and biomass resources has declined significantly.
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While this rule had good intentions, it also had unintended side effects. While it meant to clarify which renewables should be selected to meet California’s RPS and ensure the stability and reliability of California’s electrical grid, it created a system that tipped the scale toward certain renewables while leaving out others. Over the past few years, procurement of resources such as wind, solar thermal, and solar PV has gone up dramatically, while the procurement of baseload geothermal and biomass resources has declined significantly.
Read More.......
USA, Colorado:
2014 Pagosa Verde Symposium
21-22 August, Pagosa Springs Center for the Arts
The 2014 Pagosa Verde Symposium is a professional collaboration – a two-day think tank exploring economic growth through Colorado’s renewable resources. This year’s theme is Harvesting Renewable Energy to Benefit Sustainable Community Development. On Thursday & Friday, August 21 & 22, community-based renewable resources are the focus of the Symposium. Presenters will highlight financial and economic development strategies to enhance economic diversity in our communities. Speakers and participants travel to Pagosa Springs to accelerate the pace of transition.
There is an $80 general admission fee and $30 fee for students. Limited scholarships are available. We hope to inspire you to move rural and mountain resort areas of Colorado into a sustainable future. Learn more about this year’s Speakers and Topics on Thursday, August 21st OR Workshops on Friday, August 22nd.
Science:
Geology: Rainwater’s Seismic Potential Runs Deep (Financial Times Magazine)
Rainwater can penetrate many kilometers deep into the earth – further than geologists had realized. Researchers from Southampton University, working with colleagues in New Zealand, have found evidence of fluids derived originally from rainfall below the “ductile crust”, where high temperatures and pressures cause rocks to flex and flow rather than fracture in response to tectonic movements.
The discovery, published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters, has implications for understanding earthquakes, which may be triggered by fluids in the crust. It may also provide clues to the formation of mineral deposits.
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Scientists have discovered that rainwater seeps deeper into the earth than previously realized
The discovery, published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters, has implications for understanding earthquakes, which may be triggered by fluids in the crust. It may also provide clues to the formation of mineral deposits.
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USA, California:
Is SB 1139 the Right Answer for California's Geothermal Industry? (Energy Digital)
The California renewable energy industry is divided over SB 1139.
In concept, the bill is fairly simple. Authored by San Diego Senator Ben Hueso and Coachella Valley Assemblyman V. Manuel Pérez, it would required utilities to purchase utilities such as Southern California Edison or San Diego Gas & Electric to purchase extra renewable energy from geothermal sources.
“This bill would require, no later than December 31, 2024, each retail seller of electricity to procure a proportionate share, as determined by the CA Energy Commission, of a statewide total of 500 megawatts of electricity generated by specified baseload geothermal powerplants,” it reads.
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The California renewable energy industry is divided over SB 1139.
In concept, the bill is fairly simple. Authored by San Diego Senator Ben Hueso and Coachella Valley Assemblyman V. Manuel Pérez, it would required utilities to purchase utilities such as Southern California Edison or San Diego Gas & Electric to purchase extra renewable energy from geothermal sources.
“This bill would require, no later than December 31, 2024, each retail seller of electricity to procure a proportionate share, as determined by the CA Energy Commission, of a statewide total of 500 megawatts of electricity generated by specified baseload geothermal powerplants,” it reads.
Read More......
USA, Alaska:
Energy Secretary Visits Chena Hot Springs (Fairbanks Daily News-Miner)
United States Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz delivered the keynote address at a Renewable Energy Fair at Chena Hot Springs Resort and toured the unique facilities and 400 kW geothermal energy project.
“This is one place that’s showing real progress and real promise,” Moniz said. “(The geothermal) cut costs here to less than 7 cents a kwh. That’s with a relatively low temperature source. With further demonstration of that, that could be important not only for Alaska, but internationally as well.”
“Our focus at (the department) right now is looking at renewables — geothermal, wind, solar — and their integration with fossil sources, which could be diesel engines as it is now,” Moniz said. “It could be propane, which would be associated with natural gas, but the idea would be to take maximum advantage of the renewable and to greatly decrease the use of the — let’s say — the diesel, which obviously is extremely expensive in terms of the logistics of getting it there.”
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Mentions geothermal before wind and solar!
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| US Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz |
“This is one place that’s showing real progress and real promise,” Moniz said. “(The geothermal) cut costs here to less than 7 cents a kwh. That’s with a relatively low temperature source. With further demonstration of that, that could be important not only for Alaska, but internationally as well.”
“Our focus at (the department) right now is looking at renewables — geothermal, wind, solar — and their integration with fossil sources, which could be diesel engines as it is now,” Moniz said. “It could be propane, which would be associated with natural gas, but the idea would be to take maximum advantage of the renewable and to greatly decrease the use of the — let’s say — the diesel, which obviously is extremely expensive in terms of the logistics of getting it there.”
Read More......
Costa Rica:
Cost Rica Taps Geothermal Energy (Deutsche Welle)
Costa Rica already produces more than 90 percent of its electricity through renewable sources. But to exploit new geothermal fields, the country's Electricity Institute has to drill in protected areas.
Costa Rica already produces more than 90 percent of its electricity through renewable sources. But to exploit new geothermal fields, the country's Electricity Institute has to drill in protected areas.
(VIDEO - 01:43 mins)
Costa Rica:
Costa Rica to Sign Loan with Japan for Expansion of Geothermal Energy Projects (Tico Times)
A delegation led by President Luis Guillermo Solís on Monday will meet with representatives of the Japanese government to sign a $550 million loan to finance the construction of three geothermal power plants in the northwestern province of Guanacaste.
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) President Akihiko Tanaka will meet with Solís at the event, along with Finance Minister Helio Fallas, Foreign Minister Manuel González, Environment Minister Edgar Gutiérrez, Planning Minister Olga Sánchez and Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) Executive President Carlos Obregón.
The projects – Pailas II and Borinquen I and II – are expected to generate 55 megawatts each and will be developed by ICE in an area near the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park.
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Three projects – Pailas II and Borinquen I and II – are expected to generate 55 MWe each
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) President Akihiko Tanaka will meet with Solís at the event, along with Finance Minister Helio Fallas, Foreign Minister Manuel González, Environment Minister Edgar Gutiérrez, Planning Minister Olga Sánchez and Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) Executive President Carlos Obregón.
The projects – Pailas II and Borinquen I and II – are expected to generate 55 megawatts each and will be developed by ICE in an area near the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park.
Read More......
United Kingdom:
The Fourth London Geothermal Symposium: The Launch of BritGeothermal
Momentum in the geothermal industry is growing as demonstrated by the recent announcement of several new UK geothermal projects. This one day symposium provides an opportunity to listen to presentations from - and network with – the UK policy makers, academic and corporate players involved in this nascent renewables sector.
Who Should Attend?
Anyone from commerce, government or academia currently interested in developing or researching low enthalphy geothermal systems and also anyone interested in investigating the deep geothermal potential of sites within their management or ownership in more detail.
The event will provide a snapshot of current deep geothermal development in the UK by delivering sessions on geothermal heat only and power generation schemes and will introduce the recently established BritGeothermal research partnership. Invited speakers include representatives from industry, government and academia. There will also be time for networking during the lunch and post conference drinks reception.
More information and registration......
13th October 2014, The Geological Society, London 10:00-20:00
Who Should Attend?
Anyone from commerce, government or academia currently interested in developing or researching low enthalphy geothermal systems and also anyone interested in investigating the deep geothermal potential of sites within their management or ownership in more detail.
The event will provide a snapshot of current deep geothermal development in the UK by delivering sessions on geothermal heat only and power generation schemes and will introduce the recently established BritGeothermal research partnership. Invited speakers include representatives from industry, government and academia. There will also be time for networking during the lunch and post conference drinks reception.
More information and registration......
United Kingdom:
West Cornwall is a Hot Spot for Geothermal Energy (The Cornishman)
Two Penzance businessmen have joined a group from Cornwall on a visit to Germany to learn about a technology that could supply 150,000 Cornish homes with renewable electricity from deep in the earth.
Organised by EGS Energy in Penzance, and with operations manager Tony Bennett in the party as well as Cornwall councillor Tim Dwelly, the group visited an engineered geothermal energy plant in Insheim, south-west Germany, to look at the process.
They toured the plant and met Jörg Baumgärtner from BESTEC GmbH to discuss the deep geothermal plants planned for Cornwall.
West Cornwall has long been known to be one of the best areas in the country for geothermal energy.
The British Geological Survey says parts of Cornwall have geothermal gradients – hot rocks nearer the surface – higher than the UK average due to the presence of granite.
Read More......
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| Map showing the geothermal gradient (temperature increase with depth) of the UK and the South West of England. Courtesy British Geological Survey |
Organised by EGS Energy in Penzance, and with operations manager Tony Bennett in the party as well as Cornwall councillor Tim Dwelly, the group visited an engineered geothermal energy plant in Insheim, south-west Germany, to look at the process.
They toured the plant and met Jörg Baumgärtner from BESTEC GmbH to discuss the deep geothermal plants planned for Cornwall.
West Cornwall has long been known to be one of the best areas in the country for geothermal energy.
The British Geological Survey says parts of Cornwall have geothermal gradients – hot rocks nearer the surface – higher than the UK average due to the presence of granite.
Read More......
USA:
GRC Pre-Meeting Workshop: U.S. Reporting Methodologies for Geothermal Energy (DOE Geothermal Technologies Office)
The DOE Geothermal Technologies Office would like to invite you to participate in the GRC Pre-Meeting Workshop: U.S. Reporting Methodologies for Geothermal Energy.
The workshop will be held on Sunday afternoon prior to the GRC Annual Meeting. The GTO is seeking individuals in the geothermal community who are interested in participating in a discussion regarding the terminology and approaches used to characterize geothermal resources in the U.S.
NREL and LBNL, on behalf of DOE, will be presenting some of the work they have been doing related to geothermal reporting methodologies. The goal of this workshop is to introduce participants to the results of these initial analyses, to solicit feedback on the terminology, concepts, applications for geothermal reporting, and to collect input to guide the next steps for these efforts.
More information......
Sunday, September 28, 2014 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PDT), Portland, OR
The workshop will be held on Sunday afternoon prior to the GRC Annual Meeting. The GTO is seeking individuals in the geothermal community who are interested in participating in a discussion regarding the terminology and approaches used to characterize geothermal resources in the U.S.
NREL and LBNL, on behalf of DOE, will be presenting some of the work they have been doing related to geothermal reporting methodologies. The goal of this workshop is to introduce participants to the results of these initial analyses, to solicit feedback on the terminology, concepts, applications for geothermal reporting, and to collect input to guide the next steps for these efforts.
More information......
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Global:
Room Block Almost Sold Out! Reserve Your Hotel Room Now!
Hilton Downtown Portland or DoubleTree near the Convention Center
Discounted price expires September 3rd or when the room block is full.**Price will go up by $60+ a night after September 3rd or when the room block is full.
Win $150!
Submit Your Photos for The GRC Amateur Photo Contest By August 31st!
Submission Form/InstructionsNEW!!! Advertising Rates Available For GRC Annual Meeting Final Program Guide!
Get maximum exposure for your company at the largest annual geothermal gathering in the world. Advertise your booth number and let geothermal industry leaders know where to find you. Ad space is limited so reserve your spot soon. Artwork due date is August 31, 2014. Please contact Anh at alay@geothermal.org for questions or more information. Final Program Advertising Rate SheetSponsorships Still Available!
Don't miss out on the chance for high visibility at the largest annual geothermal gathering in the world.
GRC/GEA Mutual Sponsorships GRC Only Sponsorships
- Sponsorships Still Available! Don't miss out on the chance for high visibility at the largest annual geothermal gathering in the world.
- GRC Only Sponsorships
Save $100 by registering before August 31st!
GRC Annual Meeting Features:
- Two Pre-Meeting GRC Workshops ( Both 2-Days: Sept. 26th-27th):
- Intro to Hydrothermal Systems & Geothermal Exploration (Cost: $450 member/$475 non-member)
- Geothermal Leasing, Unitization & Water Use Legal Issues (Cost: $475 member/$500 non-member)
- Field Trips (Three pre-meeting and one post-meeting GRC Field Trip):
- Sept. 26th-27th: Newberry Crater overnight trip (Cost: $350)
- Sept. 28th: Willamette Valley Wine Tour (Cost: $125)
- Sept. 28th: Mount Saint Helens trip (Cost: $150)
- Oct 2nd-4th: Klamath Falls Trip (Cost: $525)
- Annual Banquet:
The GRC Annual Banquet will be the geothermal social event of the year. Get on board the Portland Spirit, a 150 foot yacht with three public decks featuring delicious Northwest cuisine, full service bars with a vast wine selection, grand pianos and a singing wait staff, a ship-wide sound system, and a marble dance floor. (Cost: $125)
- Charity Golf Tournament:
Sign-up early for this popular networking event at a top golf course near Portland. (Cost: $150 per person or $550 per Foursome) Golf Registration Brochure
- International Luncheon & Session:
Special informational lunch with presentations and discussions led by globally known experts in the geothermal community. Great networking opportunities. Free with your registration! Don't forget to mark the option on your registration form or when you register online.
- Student Leadership Luncheon (students only):
Industry leaders will meet with students attending the GRC Annual Meeting during Tuesday’s lunch hour. Discussions between the leaders and students over lunch will provide one-on-one opportunities to share ideas about key topics on a variety of geothermal interests. Free with your registration! Don't forget to mark the option on your registration form or when you register online.
- GEA Geothermal Energy Expo:
More than 125 booths were on show at last year’s Expo, showcasing projects, equipment, services and state of the art technology to the geothermal community. Entry to the trade show is free with a GRC Annual Meeting registration.
Booths are still available! Register for a booth today. For more information or to register: Exhibitor RegistrationGet the latest news on the geothermal event of the year at www.geothermal.org.
Technology:
Hot Rocks (The Economist)
The industry may dislike the comparison, but EGS is geothermal fracking. Millions of gallons of water and chemicals are injected into mostly vertical wells at relatively high pressure, and the combination of cold-meets-hot, pressure and chemistry shears the deep, hot rock. This creates new “fracture networks” through which water can be pumped, heated and sent back to the surface to generate power. Conventional geothermal wells cost at least $5m to develop, and about half fail. The new technique can reduce the failure rate and extend the size and life of existing geothermal fields. In time, think EGS fans, it will allow geothermal fields to be established wherever there is suitable hot rock.
The U.S. energy department reckons that EGS techniques could be commercially viable as soon as next year, at which point more private investors and perhaps utilities might pile in. It is not alone in its optimism: Germany, France and Britain have state research programmes for EGS.
All this has environmentalists gearing up for another fight. EGS can trigger earthquakes. Most are minuscule but an early project on a seismic fault in Basel, Switzerland was scrapped after several not-so-small quakes. It is also possible that water used for EGS may leak, contaminating surface waters or soil. America has rules to ensure EGS’s safety, and every project is surrounded by seismometers. Whether this will prevent protests or prohibitions is open to hot debate.
Read More......
Why geothermal is the new fracking
The industry may dislike the comparison, but EGS is geothermal fracking. Millions of gallons of water and chemicals are injected into mostly vertical wells at relatively high pressure, and the combination of cold-meets-hot, pressure and chemistry shears the deep, hot rock. This creates new “fracture networks” through which water can be pumped, heated and sent back to the surface to generate power. Conventional geothermal wells cost at least $5m to develop, and about half fail. The new technique can reduce the failure rate and extend the size and life of existing geothermal fields. In time, think EGS fans, it will allow geothermal fields to be established wherever there is suitable hot rock.
The U.S. energy department reckons that EGS techniques could be commercially viable as soon as next year, at which point more private investors and perhaps utilities might pile in. It is not alone in its optimism: Germany, France and Britain have state research programmes for EGS.
All this has environmentalists gearing up for another fight. EGS can trigger earthquakes. Most are minuscule but an early project on a seismic fault in Basel, Switzerland was scrapped after several not-so-small quakes. It is also possible that water used for EGS may leak, contaminating surface waters or soil. America has rules to ensure EGS’s safety, and every project is surrounded by seismometers. Whether this will prevent protests or prohibitions is open to hot debate.
Read More......
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
New Zealand:
166 MW Te Mihi Power Station Opens Today (New Zealand Herald)
Contact Energy's new $623 million geothermal power station has been supplying power to thousands of homes since October 2013 but it will officially be opened by the Deputy Prime Minister, Bill English, today.
However, sagging domestic electricity demand and doubt about the future of some big industrial users means building of large wind and geothermal stations of the last 10 years is at an end.
Contact chief executive Dennis Barnes said the Ti Mihi plant with two 83 MW steam turbines could power more than 160,000 homes.
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However, sagging domestic electricity demand and doubt about the future of some big industrial users means building of large wind and geothermal stations of the last 10 years is at an end.
Contact chief executive Dennis Barnes said the Ti Mihi plant with two 83 MW steam turbines could power more than 160,000 homes.
Read More.....
USA, Oregon:
Geothermal and Solar through Academic, Federal, and Private Partnership (Buildings Smarter Facility Management)
The Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT) recently became the first campus in the U.S. to be entirely heated by on-site renewable energy, achieving a major milestone toward its goal of making all seven schools in the Oregon University System carbon-neutral by 2020.
Partially supported by Energy Department funds, the Klamath Falls campus utilizes 1.5 MW of geothermal capacity combined with a 2 MW solar array, making OIT the first university in North America to generate most of its electrical power from renewable sources.
“The DOE’s investments at OIT are another example of how partnerships with academia, industry, and the private sector can help cut energy waste and pollution while reducing energy bills,” says Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz.
The school’s Geo-Heat Center has been tapping its geothermal resources to heat campus buildings for nearly 50 years. In 2008, OIT began further developing geothermal resources beneath the campus by purchasing an initial 280 kW system through DOE funding. By 2010, the small binary unit was producing power for the school’s facilities, and the groundwork was laid to utilize additional geothermal energy through a DOE investment of $3.5 million, with a matching cost-share by the university.
A GRC Fieldtrip will visit the Klamath Falls campus of OIT, Thursday to Saturday, October 2 - October 4, departing from the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Expo, Portland, Oregon, USA.
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The Oregon Institute of Technology is working toward carbon neutrality
The Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT) recently became the first campus in the U.S. to be entirely heated by on-site renewable energy, achieving a major milestone toward its goal of making all seven schools in the Oregon University System carbon-neutral by 2020.
Partially supported by Energy Department funds, the Klamath Falls campus utilizes 1.5 MW of geothermal capacity combined with a 2 MW solar array, making OIT the first university in North America to generate most of its electrical power from renewable sources.
“The DOE’s investments at OIT are another example of how partnerships with academia, industry, and the private sector can help cut energy waste and pollution while reducing energy bills,” says Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz.
The school’s Geo-Heat Center has been tapping its geothermal resources to heat campus buildings for nearly 50 years. In 2008, OIT began further developing geothermal resources beneath the campus by purchasing an initial 280 kW system through DOE funding. By 2010, the small binary unit was producing power for the school’s facilities, and the groundwork was laid to utilize additional geothermal energy through a DOE investment of $3.5 million, with a matching cost-share by the university.
A GRC Fieldtrip will visit the Klamath Falls campus of OIT, Thursday to Saturday, October 2 - October 4, departing from the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Expo, Portland, Oregon, USA.
Read More.....
USA, Nicaragua:
Ram Power Announces 2014 Second Quarter Results
Ram Power, Corp. has announced its operating results for the quarter ended June 30, 2014.
Highlights include an update for the San Jacinto-Tizate Project in the northwest of Nicaragua.
The San Jacinto-Tizate Power Plant generated 104,356 (net) MWh resulting in revenue of $11.7 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2014 (a decrease of 11% over the same period in 2013) and EBITDA (as defined below) of $8 million in second quarter 2014 compared to revenue of $13.2 million and EBITDA of $9 million in second quarter 2013. The decline was caused by wells offline for the drilling remediation program during the first part of the year and the turbine overhaul in June;
In May 2014, the company completed the 30-day stabilization period and the 7-day performance test of the resource field for the San Jacinto project. In accordance with the amendment to the project's credit facilities, the company concluded a 30-day stabilization period on May 18th, followed immediately by a 7 day performance test which concluded on May 25th. During the 7-day performance test, the project produced an average of 57.8 MW (gross) / 52.7 MW (net).
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Highlights include an update for the San Jacinto-Tizate Project in the northwest of Nicaragua.
The San Jacinto-Tizate Power Plant generated 104,356 (net) MWh resulting in revenue of $11.7 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2014 (a decrease of 11% over the same period in 2013) and EBITDA (as defined below) of $8 million in second quarter 2014 compared to revenue of $13.2 million and EBITDA of $9 million in second quarter 2013. The decline was caused by wells offline for the drilling remediation program during the first part of the year and the turbine overhaul in June;
In May 2014, the company completed the 30-day stabilization period and the 7-day performance test of the resource field for the San Jacinto project. In accordance with the amendment to the project's credit facilities, the company concluded a 30-day stabilization period on May 18th, followed immediately by a 7 day performance test which concluded on May 25th. During the 7-day performance test, the project produced an average of 57.8 MW (gross) / 52.7 MW (net).
Read More......
USA, California:
Work Hard to Secure the Tesla Gigafactory (The Desert Sun)
California should do everything it can, within reason, to land Tesla's gigafactory for lithium batteries.
The Salton Sea would be an ideal place for the gigafactory.
Land is cheap. There's access to railroad tracks and Interstate 10. Renewable energy resources are plentiful to power the factory — wind, solar and geothermal, which can generate a consistent flow of electricity.
Most important is access to a domestic supply of lithium chloride. Simbol Materials extracts lithium at the Featherstone geothermal plant in Calipatria, which could be used for Tesla's mass production of batteries for Model 3.
And it would help the Imperial Irrigation District's plan to create a revenue stream from renewable energy projects to help pay for restoration projects at the sea.
Imperial County's unemployment rate stands at 21.6 percent, among the highest in the country. Building the Tesla factory here would have a huge impact on the regional economy.
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| John L. Featherstone geothermal plant |
The Salton Sea would be an ideal place for the gigafactory.
Land is cheap. There's access to railroad tracks and Interstate 10. Renewable energy resources are plentiful to power the factory — wind, solar and geothermal, which can generate a consistent flow of electricity.
Most important is access to a domestic supply of lithium chloride. Simbol Materials extracts lithium at the Featherstone geothermal plant in Calipatria, which could be used for Tesla's mass production of batteries for Model 3.
And it would help the Imperial Irrigation District's plan to create a revenue stream from renewable energy projects to help pay for restoration projects at the sea.
Imperial County's unemployment rate stands at 21.6 percent, among the highest in the country. Building the Tesla factory here would have a huge impact on the regional economy.
Read More......
Australia:
Petratherm in $17m Paralana Writedown (Business Spectator)
Petratherm has announced an expected $17 million writedown of its Paralana project assets in South Australia after failing to meet a deadline for a government grant last month.
Despite a seven-month extension on the deadline, the company failed to meet an Australian Renewables Agency requirement it raise $5 million from investors.
The deadline miss meant the company will also not be able access the $24.5 million Renewable Energy Development Program grant for the 7 MW geothermal plant in the Flinders Ranges.
The funds were to be used for a second well for the $62 million Paralana project, which taps naturally fractured shales just above the hot basement rocks.
Petratherm executive director Terry Kallis confirmed the lapsed grant meant the company would be "unable to fund the project in the forseeable future".
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