40th GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo: Call for Papers

2016 GRC Annual Meeting Call For Papers

Deadline: May 6, 2016

Geothermal Energy, Here and Now: Sustainable, Clean, Flexible

The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) invites you to present your latest technical work in geothermal research, exploration, development and utilization at GRC’s 40th Annual Meeting October 23-26, 2016 at the Sacramento Convention Center, Sacramento, California. Our theme this year is “Geothermal Energy, Here and Now: Sustainable, Clean, Flexible.”

Successful selection to present at the Geothermal Resources Council 2016 Annual Meeting is prestigious and recognizes the presenter as a top industry expert. International participation is the key to the success of the GRC Annual Meeting technical programs and we encourage geothermal researchers and experts from around the world to submit their work for consideration to be presented at the GRC 2016 Annual Meeting.

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USA: News from the Geo Heat Pump Industry

Heat Exchange Industry News (Geothermal Exchange Organization)

The latest GEO Industry News is now available from the Geothermal Exchange Organization (GEO).

Headlines and features in this month’s edition include:

• GEO Call for Projects
• GEO 2015 – The Year in Review
• GEO Comments on EPA Clean Energy Program
• GEO Welcomes New Board Members
• NYC Mayor de Blasio Signs Geothermal Bill
• Virginia Geo Tax Credit Bill Introduced

The Geothermal Exchange Organization, a 501(c)(6) non-profit trade association based in Springfield, Illinois, USA advocates for the environmental, energy efficiency and economic benefits of geothermal heat pump systems for heating and cooling applications in residential, commercial, and institutional buildings in the USA.

GEO Industry News (PDF)

Turkey: Geothermal Energy Technologies and Equipment Fair Begins Tomorrow

Power Next Exhibitions & Congress

21-23 January, Ankara, Turkey

Along with the fair for the first two days, seminars are held at the Congresium International Convention and Exhibition Center. Representatives from Municipality Unions for Geothermal Resources, academics and companies shared with the visitors their expertise and latest technologies in the geothermal sector.

The fair has become an important platform for Geothermal industry of Turkey. 50 companies from all over Turkey exhibited at the 2nd Geothermal Exhibition in Ankara. Energy companies, Power plants and companies producing all kinds of geothermal equipment exhibited their products and services at this fair.

More Information.......

USA, Virginia: DoD, Air Force, Army and Navy Get Together to Discuss Renewable Energy

6th Defense Renewables Summit

March 15-16, Arlington, Virginia, USA

Infocast, a world leader in renewable energy finance, investment and development events, designed the 6th Defense Renewables Summit, March 15-16, 2016 in Arlington, VA, to bring DoD, Air Force, Army and Navy decision-makers together with renewable energy developers, utilities, system integrators, financiers, EPCs, cybersecurity, energy storage, smartgrid and telecom experts to meet the renewable energy goals and security needs of the DoD.

The summit will explore how viable, financeable projects can be developed to the benefit of all. The summit will provide the latest on emerging guidelines and processes that merges the complexity of federal acquisitions with the risk allocation methods of project finance.

More Information........

The Latest News in Audio from the Geothermal News Report

Geothermal News Report

The Geothermal News Report (GNR) is a weekly podcast wrapping up the top stories in the geothermal industry.

First episode of 2016, and we cover the State of the Union address, Ormat’s newest plant in Honduras, Mt. Apo and Mt. Sibulan open for exploration, Japan and Iceland strike a $68 million dollar deal.



(AUDIO 8:39 Minutes)

Italy: Enel to Focus on Growing Efficiency and Improved Environmental Performance of Geothermal Plants in Tuscany

Geothermal 2.0: Innovation and Environment (News Release)

The near future of Enel Green Power (EGP)’s plants in Tuscany’s geothermal district will be all about growing efficiency and improved environmental performance. Some €500 million has been allocated for investment years in the provinces of Pisa, Siena and Grosseto over the next five

Investments amounting to around 500 million euros over five years. Enel Green Power’s geothermal power in Tuscany is not at a standstill; on the contrary, it is stronger than ever. The immediate future of EGP’s plants in the district that includes the provinces of Grosseto, Siena and Pisa will be all about enhancing plant efficiency and environmental performance.

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Ethiopia: Geological Survey Identifies 22 Potential Geothermal Resoucres

Ethiopia capable to generate over 10,000 MW geothermal energy: Study (Fana Broadcasting Corporate)

(Courtesy CIA.gov)

The Geological Survey of Ethiopia (GSE) said Ethiopia could generate over 10,000 MW from geothermal energy. Public Relations and Communication Director at GES, Tamiru Mersha, made the remark based on the study his institution conducted in the rift valley region, an area endowed with high temperature. According to him, 22 potential areas for geothermal energy production were identified through the study.

Apart from identifying potential areas, a project has been designed to generate 70 MW from Alutu-Langano project by drilling four holes in collaboration with the Japanese government. The drilling of two holes with 1,920 and 1,953 meters depth has already been completed, he said.  According to Tamiru, the GSE would hand over the remaining two holes to the Ethiopian Electric Power this year.

He further said preparations are underway to begin work on another project that could generate 100 MW around Tendaho area, Afar regional state. The GSE would work with Ethiopian Electric Power to identify potential areas and drill holes as various stakeholders have expressed interest to take part in the sector.

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Science & Technology: New Tech Uses CO2 to Transmit Geothermal Heat

TerraCOH Solution - Carbon Dioxide Plume Geothermal (CPG)™

TerraCOH’s mission is to produce environmentally-friendly, low-cost electrical power using proprietary CO2 Plume Geothermal (CPG)™ technology. Broad patents have issued in the United States and key countries, granting TERRACOH exclusive rights to below-ground use of any non-water based working fluid for power production.



TerraCOH’s proprietary technology was developed at the University of Minnesota in the Geofluids group, led by Dr. Martin Saar and Dr. Jimmy Randolph. Unlike traditional geothermal energy production which uses water as it working fluid for heat transfer, the technology, called Carbon Dioxide Plume Geothermal (CPG)™, utilizes stored supercritical carbon dioxide as its working fluid. Supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) is carbon dioxide gas which has been placed under pressure which turns the gas into a liquid. This liquid can then be handled in a manner similar to water for injection into deep storage reservoirs.

Kenya: 50 MW Geothermal Wellhead Leasing Contract is Back On

Court clears KenGen power supply deal with RentCo East Africa Ltd (Daily Nation)

The multibillion-shilling project to provide well-head geothermal power generation units for Kenya Electricity Generating Company Ltd (KenGen) at the Olkaria plant will proceed as scheduled after the court dismissed an application by a losing firm which was challenging the award of the tender to its rival.

Mr Justice George Odunga ruled that the application by Russian company OJSC Power Machines Ltd, challenging the award of the Sh52 billion tender to RentCo East Africa Ltd, ought to have been filed as an appeal before the board and not taken to court.

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New Zealand: Mighty River Power Geothermal Plants Set Generation Record

Mighty River Power Quarterly Operational Update for the Three Months ended 31 December 2015 (News Release)

98% geothermal availability led to the highest geothermal generation for a quarter in the company’s history

The quarter to 31 December 2015 reflected strong geothermal performance as Mighty River Power had its highest-ever quarter of geothermal generation, up 12% on the prior comparable period, to 728 GWh. This high geothermal generation reflected 98% availability of the company’s geothermal plants during the quarter.

Read More.......

Kenya: Online Meeting to Discuss Renewable Energy Projects Including Geothermal

Webinar: Exploring Kenya’s Renewable Energy Opportunities (Greenpower Conferences)

Tue, Feb 2, 2016 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM PST

Kenya’s vast potential for renewable energy should not be underestimated. Ranked second amongst all African nations for investment in renewables (behind only South Africa), investments in this commercial hub of East Africa totaled $4 Billion US at the end of 2015.

Financial support for renewable energy in Kenya is supported by regulatory stability and political will. The government committed to making renewable energy central to Kenya’s mission to provide “a high quality of life to all its citizens by 2030 in a clean and secure environment”. Moreover ‘Kenya’s 2030 Vision’ targets 5 GW of Geothermal Power, 3 GW of Wind and 500 MW of Solar PV to be grid connected.

In a free to attend webinar 3 speakers (including Hezy Ram, CEO, Ram Energy – Akiiira Geothermal Limited) pivotal to Kenya’s renewable energy revolution, representing leading projects in Geothermal, Wind and Solar PV will present their views.

Register.......

USA, New Mexico: Opportunity to Provide Renewable Energy to the Land of Enchantment

Public Service of New Mexico issues RFP for up to 50 MW of renewables (Renewable Energy World)

Those who want to participate in the bid process need to submit a "Notice of Intent to Bid" by Jan. 25 and submit their proposal by Feb. 25.

Public Service Co. of New Mexico, a unit of PNM Resources, has issued a request for proposals for renewable energy resources totaling up to 50 MW of generation.

This RFP is for Renewable Energy Certificates (REC) and accompanying Renewable Electric Energy or for RECs without accompanying energy. PNM said Jan. 13 that is looking for renewable energy resources that will be cost-effective additions to PNM's integrated system portfolio, which includes traditional generation, demand-side management and renewable sources.

Projects should be located in or be able to deliver electricity to customers in New Mexico. REC-only purchases must be from a facility located in New Mexico. Renewable energy sources sought include wind, solar, geothermal, hydropower and biomass technologies.

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China: Exploration Finds Potential for 800 MW Geothermal Power Generation in Tibet

Tibet detects 672 geothermal sites (ecns)

Southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region has detected 672 geothermal sites with a combined power generation potential of 800 MW in a new survey.

The resources are found along the plateau railway link in Lhasa, Nyemo, Yambajan, Nagqu and near Cona Lake, in areas near the Yarklunggtsangpo,Lhasa and Nyainchu rivers, as well as the vast uninhabited areas in the north of Tibet, said the regional bureau of geology and mineral exploration on Saturday.

The survey also found that Tibet's high-temperature geothermal resources of over 150 degrees Celsius take up 80 percent of China's total.

This is contrary to traditional beliefs that high-temperature geothermal resources are found only in volcanic regions at low altitudes. Tibet has an average altitude of 4,000 meters.

It plans to invest heavily in the coming decade to exploit clean and renewable energy including geothermal and solar energy.

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Indonesia: Governement to Auction 1,065 MW of Geothermal Energy Developments Over Next Two Years

Government of Indonesia to Auction Geothermal Power Blocks (Indonesia Investments - press release)

The government of Indonesia will offer 21 geothermal blocks to investors over the next two years. Combined these 21 blocks, which are estimated to require USD $4.2 billion in investment, have a power generation capacity of 1,065 MW. An official of Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources said most of the geothermal power blocks will be offered through an open auction. The first auction is expected to take place in March 2016.

Yunus Saifulhak, Chief of Geothermal Power at the Energy Ministry's Directorate General, said the government has selected 26 geothermal working areas to be offered to investors. Five have already been tendered last year. The remaining 21 blocks are set to be offered in 2016-2017. The Indonesian government is currently studying which blocks are ready to be tendered first.

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Philippines: Government to Guarantee Power Supply Agreement for 40 MW Montelago Geothermal Project

NEA okays ‘supply deal guarantee’ for Occidental Mindoro electric coop (Manila Bulletin)

The Power Supply Agreement (PSA) to be sealed by Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Inc. (OMECO) with power providers Mindoro Geothermal Power Corporation (MGPC) and Occidental Mindoro Consolidated Power Corporation (OCMPC) will be underpinned by a guarantee of the National Electrification Administration (NEA).

Emerging Power, Inc. (EPI), the parent firm of MGPC has affirmed the state-run’s approval of its bid for guarantee on their supply deal.

‘The PSA guarantee for OMECO is the first that NEA released under its new Charter,” the Zamora-led firm has noted. NEA’s revised charter is under Republic Act 10531 also known as the National Electrification Administration Reform Act of 2013.”

MGPC is now advancing its planned 40 MW geothermal plant in Oriental Mindoro with a targeted commercial operation date in 2017. It has been part of the electrification agency’s mandate not just to set traction on the government’s electrification program, but also to “act as guarantor for the electric cooperatives’ power purchase transactions with independent power suppliers.”

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Philippines: Drilling for Iriga Geothermal Power Project to Start in February

Desco buys 80% stake in CamSur exploration (News Release)

Drilling for geothermal project in Camarines Sur will commence next month

Basic Energy Corp. said Monday it signed a farm-in agreement allowing Desco Inc. to acquire an 80-percent participating interest in the Iriga geothermal power project.

Basic Energy said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Desco would bear the entire expenditure for the geophysical survey and all other activities required to bring the Iriga geothermal service contract to drilling.

“Notwithstanding approval from DoE, Desco shall commence the geophysical activities in February 2016 and shall endeavor to complete the survey in accordance with the work program,” it said.

Desco shall also fund the entire drilling cost for the first well, with Basic fully carried in the first well. Desco is a local drilling firm engaged mostly in servicing the geothermal, oil and gas industries.

The agreement also stipulates that the cost of drilling the second well and succeeding wells and the cost of production facility shall be divided pro rata between Basic and Desco at 20 percent and 80 percent, respectively.

Read More........

USA, Idaho: US Geothermal Updates on 68 MW of Projects Under Development

U.S. Geothermal Provides Year-End Update and 2016 Guidance (Stockhouse - News Release)

U.S. Geothermal Inc. has confirmed its previous guidance for 2015 and now provides guidance for the full year 2016.

Notable developments include:

• Completed flow test of three major steam wells at WGP Geysers project and independent reservoir report confirmed the WGP drilled wells are capable of generating approximately 30 megawatts.
• Drilling of well EC-2A confirmed the discovery of a commercial geothermal resource at the El Ceibillo project.
• Received approval from the Guatemalan Ministry of Energy and Mines for a modified project construction schedule for the El Ceibillo project.
• Drilled and tested the first and second water supply wells at Neal Hot Springs to support the potential hybrid cooling project.
• Received permits for the temperature gradient wells at San Emidio for Phase II, and drilled five temperature gradient wells. 

Read More.........                      Full report......

Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis: Geothermal Energy will Boost Nevis Tourism

NextGen travel advice, from power plants to pot (Travel Weekly)

In one of the more unexpected talking points I've ever encountered from a tourism minister, Nevis' Mark Brantley wanted to meet to review the island's plans to open a geothermal energy plant in 2017.

And what exactly does this have to do with tourism?

A mile below the dormant volcano that dominates the island's profile is quite a bit of heat, and enough will be captured by the new plant to provide all of Nevis' energy needs and then some.

"We aspire to be the greenest place on Earth," he said, "and [the plant] will not only help us achieve that aspiration, it will be transformative for us and for the region."

Should all go as planned, he believes Nevis will become the first destination with a zero-carbon footprint and will export energy to St. Kitts, St. Martin, St. Bart's, Saba and Anguilla, bringing down costs (and carbon dioxide) across the region.

Not that hotel prices will necessarily come down. The top-of-the-market positioning Nevis and some of these other islands embrace isn't likely to change, Brantley said. Rather, it will be enhanced for visitors concerned about the carbon footprint of their vacation. And that market is growing. Bruce Cutright, CEO of Thermal Energy Partners, which is building the facility, said a geothermal energy plant outside Reykjavik, Iceland, already attracts 3 million tourists a year.

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Australia: Study of Geothermal Potential in Four Key Sedimentary Basins

Funding to map geothermal resources in Australia (Climate Control News - press release)

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is providing $450,000 to the University of Adelaide to map geothermal resources in Australia.

The $1.62 million project, led by Professor Martin Hand and Dr Ros King, will produce maps of the distribution, orientation and connectivity of fractures in four key sedimentary basins around Australia to better understand the structural permeability in these regions.

Permeability affects how easily liquids and gases can move through and be extracted from the earth, including hot water that can be used to generate geothermal power.

The University of Adelaide’s South Australian Centre for Geothermal Energy Research, part of its Institute for Mineral and Energy Resources, will also develop a “toolkit” to assist developers to predict permeability pathways within critical Australian sedimentary basins and reduce the risks associated with drilling operations.

This information will join other knowledge discovered through ARENA-supported geothermal projects and serve as a go-to source for future developments, providing a head start on viability and risk assessments.

Read More........

40th GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo: Call for Papers

2016 GRC Annual Meeting Call For Papers

Deadline: May 6, 2016

The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) invites you to present your latest technical work in geothermal research, exploration, development and utilization at GRC’s 40th Annual Meeting October 23-26, 2016 at the Sacramento Convention Center, Sacramento, California. Our theme this year is “Geothermal Energy, Here and Now: Sustainable, Clean, Flexible.”

Successful selection to present at the Geothermal Resources Council 2016 Annual Meeting is prestigious and recognizes the presenter as a top industry expert. International participation is the key to the success of the GRC Annual Meeting technical programs and we encourage geothermal researchers and experts from around the world to submit their work for consideration to be presented at the GRC 2016 Annual Meeting.

Read More........

USA, Washington DC: Early Bird Discount Rates for GEA Geothermal Day Extended to January 31

U.S. and International Geothermal Energy Showcase (GEA)

Thursday, March 17, Washington D.C., USA

The U.S. Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) will be holding a U.S. and International Geothermal Energy Showcase on March 17 at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, DC. The 2016 U.S. and International Geothermal Energy Showcase will feature industry and governmental leaders from across the geothermal marketplace. The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) is a supporter.

The last GEA U.S. & International Geothermal Energy Showcase held in 2014 involved more than 250 industry leaders, government officials, and other power sector representatives from the U.S. and 26 countries around the world.

Confirmed and invited speakers include representatives from the United States Congress, IRENA, U.S. Department of Energy, Ormat, Enel Green Power, ElectraTherm, U.S. Geothermal, Alstom, Power Engineers/Galena Advisors, CPI, CalEnergy, Nordic Development Fund, World Bank, Citigroup, IADB, EBRD, AfDB, EDC, Dewhurst Group, Standard Bank, Thermochem, Reykjavik Geothermal, AltaRockEnergy, Indonesia Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, CFE, PT Pertamina, and more. Early bird discount rates end January 31. 

More Information.......                             Register........

Tanzania: Icelandic and Norwegian Agencies Fund Geothermal Exploration Project

Supporting the geothermal development in Tanzania (NDF)

The signed agreement is part of the regional Geothermal Exploration Project

(Courtesy CIA.gov)

A cooperation agreement has been signed with the Ministry of Energy and Minerals in Tanzania for support to geothermal development in the country under the joint Nordic Development Fund (NDF) and Icelandic International Development Agency (ICEIDA) regional Geothermal Exploration Project. The main objective of this regional project is to assist countries in East Africa to enhance geothermal knowledge and capacity in order to enable further actions on geothermal utilization. This includes active support during the exploration phase of geothermal development.

The implementing agency in Tanzania is the Tanzania Geothermal Development Company (TGDC). The objective of the sub-project is to enhance knowledge of selected geothermal areas in Tanzania, including Luhoi, Ngozi and Kiejo-Mbaka, and to identify potential sites for exploration drilling and improved capacity to advance geothermal energy production. The sub-project places particular emphasis on capacity-building for Tanzanian experts through hands-on training during surface exploration and lectures on methods and interpretation.

The ICEIDA/NDF support has been organised in coordination with other on-going programs in the sector.

More Information: NDF C48 Geothermal Exploration Project 

Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis: Nevis Poised to be "the Greenest Place on Earth" When Geothermal Program Comes Online

Nevis' Thrust to Geothermal Energy (Yahoo! Finance)

On the heels of the Paris Climate Change Conference when all the countries of the world are focused on reducing their carbon footprints, the Caribbean island of Nevis is actually taking steps to do just that. This is the key message that the Honorable Mark Brantley, Deputy Premier and Minister of Tourism for Nevis conveyed to Americans as he appeared on major US print and broadcast media during his recent visit to New York.

Nevis is poised to be "the greenest place on Earth" when its geothermal program comes online in 2017. The island is blessed with a vast resource of geothermal energy, enough that it can be 100% off fossil fuels and has energy left over to share with neighboring Caribbean islands. No other country can currently make this claim.

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USA: GRC President-Elect Nominated for Major Clean Energy Education Award

SMU geothermal scientist Maria Richards nominated for a 2016 Clean Energy Education & Empowerment (C3E) Award (SMU)

Maria Richards, GRC President-Elect

Congratulations to GRC Member Maria Richards, SMU Geothermal Laboratory Coordinator in the Roy M. Huffington Department of Earth Sciences. She has been nominated for a 2016 Clean Energy Education & Empowerment (C3E) Award in education.

The goal of the C3E Awards is to advance the work and increase the visibility of emerging women leaders in the clean energy sector. Winners will receive an $8,000 prize to support their future work or the work of other women in clean energy. Winners will also receive national recognition. For more information, please visit www.C3Eawards.org.

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Iceland: GEOthermal Research Group to Showcase its Research at Conference

Conference: The Deep Roots of Geothermal Systems (GEORG)

18-19 February 2016, Reykjavik Energy Headquarters, Reykjavík, Iceland

The cooperative project, titled "Deep Roots of Geothermal Systems" (DRG), is managed within the cluster cooperation of GEOthermal Research Group (GEORG) and is financially supported by GEORG, Orkustofnun,Reykjavik Energy, HS Orka,Landsvirkjun and the Iceland Deep Drilling Project (IDDP).

The aim of the project is to understand the relationship of water and magma in the roots of volcanoes and how heat is transferred into geothermal systems to maintain their energy. Furthermore, the design of wells and well heads for high temperatures will be a focus of the project, as will methods for utilizing super-heated steam from greater depths.

More information.......

USA, New York: Argument for More Use of Ground Source Heat Pumps

Warming Trend: Why New York Needs to Invest in Geothermal (Observer Innovation)

St Patrick’s Cathedral – rendering of the new geothermal heating system for the church (Photo: © Murphy Burnham & Buttrick Architects

New York City has nearly 1 million buildings and nearly all of them (roughly 900,000) could be heated and cooled by the earth without burning any fossil fuels.

A recent report found that New York City was the most wasteful megacity in the world, and its buildings consume two-thirds of the energy we use. Over half of that energy is for space heating alone. Fossil fuels burnt for that purpose cause nearly 40 percent of CO2 emissions in America.

Solar, wind and hydropower are all necessary if we’re going to provide electricity without accelerating climate change, but none of these are great for heating and cooling buildings. The leading technology for this is called ground source heat pumps, which use energy from the sun’s heat trapped just below the earth’s surface. As air temperature fluctuates wildly throughout the year, the ground 20 feet below the surface stays steady, between 50 and 60 degrees.

Read More........

Turkey: EBRD Shares a Vision for Geothermal Energy in Turkey

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Commits to Geothermal

Our goal is to unlock the vast amounts of #renewable energy in #Turkey. #geothermal https://t.co/e8W9MzfbWj pic.twitter.com/Ckw6vhXvfZ

— The EBRD (@EBRD) January 14, 2016

Kenya: Funding Provided for 70 MW Olkaria I Geothermal Power Plant Extension

KenGen Completes Project Financing Expansion of Unit VI of Olkaria I Geothermal Power Plant (4 Traders - News Release)

Kenya Electricity Generating Company Limited (KenGen), has completed project financing of EUR 72 million (USD 77.4 million) for the expansion of Olkaria I geothermal power plant in southwestern Kenya. The finance was provided by the European Investment Bank (EIB).

The project consists of the extension of the existing 140 MW of Olkaria I geothermal power plant Unit IV and V with an additional 70 MW turbine (Unit VI), the necessary wells, steam-gathering system and interconnection facilities. The total cost of the power plant is EUR 288 million (USD 309.6 million).

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Science & Technology: Geothermal Power Helps in Carbon Dioxide-to-Methanol Process

Carbon dioxide-to-methanol catalyst ignites ‘fuel from air’ debate (Chemistry World)

Location of the CRI facility next to the Svartsengi geothermal
plant and the Blue Lagoon (Courtesy Carbon Recycling International)

Chemists in the US have created a catalyst system that they say is the first to make methanol straight from the tiny concentration of carbon dioxide in Earth’s atmosphere. The approach developed by George Olah and Surya Prakash’s University of Southern California (USC) team uses milder conditions than existing carbon dioxide-to-methanol processes. It is an initial step towards realizing the group’s vision of making fuel from nothing but gases from the air and renewable energy, Prakash tells Chemistry World. However, Harvard University’s David Keith, a leading expert on ‘air capture’ of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, is sceptical the new process can deliver on that promise.

The USC chemists advise Carbon Recycling International (CRI) based in Reykjavik in Iceland, which operates an industrial carbon dioxide-to-methanol plant named after Olah, who won the chemistry Nobel prize in 1994 for his work on carbocations. The company’s location next to the Svartsengi geothermal plant allows it to exploit geothermal steam, which is rich in carbon dioxide, provides heat and can be used to generate electricity without burning fossil fuels. This lets CRI electrolytically split water and get hydrogen to reduce carbon dioxide to methanol.

Read More........

Turkey: US$125 million PLUTO Initiative to Help Develop 60 MW Geothermal Energy

EBRD and CTF give funding boost to Turkey’s geothermal energy (EBRD)

To tap Turkey’s significant geothermal energy potential the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Clean Technology Fund (CTF) are launching a program to support exploratory drilling investments, the partners announced at the 35th Energy Efficiency Forum in Istanbul on January 14.

Geothermal energy projects face high risks particularly in their initial stages, including high investment costs and development risks and very limited access to project finance once drilling has confirmed the resource. The new US$125 million PLUTO initiative will provide finance and advice to private developers to help minimize these risks, according to EBRD.

PLUTO, named after the ruler of the underworld in classic mythology, combines US$ 100 million from the EBRD with US$ 25 million from the CTF, a funding window of the Climate Investment Funds. The programme is part of a global push by multilateral development banks to scale up geothermal energy production.

Read More.......

Global: 40th GRC Annual Meeting - Present at the Biggest Geothermal Event of the Year

2016 GRC Annual Meeting Call For Papers

Deadline: May 6, 2016

The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) invites you to present your latest technical work in geothermal research, exploration, development and utilization at GRC’s 40th Annual Meeting October 23-26, 2016 at the Sacramento Convention Center, Sacramento, California. Our theme this year is “Geothermal Energy, Here and Now: Sustainable, Clean, Flexible.”

Successful selection to present at the Geothermal Resources Council 2016 Annual Meeting is prestigious and recognizes the presenter as a top industry expert. International participation is the key to the success of the GRC Annual Meeting technical programs and we encourage geothermal researchers and experts from around the world to submit their work for consideration to be presented at the GRC 2016 Annual Meeting.

Read More........

Europe: New Report Calls for Developing Enhanced Geothermal Systems

2015 JRC Geothermal Energy Status Report (EU Joint Research Centre Institute for Energy and Transport)

This Science for Policy report by the Joint Research Centre, the European Commission (EU)’s in-house science service, presents the current status of the major geothermal energy technologies ranging from ground source heat pump systems, direct use facilities to geothermal power plants.

Power production from hydrothermal resources where natural permeability coincides with hot bedrocks is a mature technology. The same is true for direct use systems and ground source heat pumps. Power and heat production from engineered geothermal systems where there is either a lack of thermal convection or where permeability has to be artificially created is less mature and needs further development and support.

Currently, geothermal energy provides 0.2 % of EU final electricity demand. In addition, about 36,000 GWh of heat are produced by direct use systems and ground source heat pumps.

In order to expand the potential for geothermal power production, focus should be made on facilitating the deployment of engineered geothermal systems. A special chapter in this year's edition gives an overview of past and current engineered geothermal systems projects worldwide and identifies issues needed to overcome in order to enable further deployment of the technology.

Increased deployment may be achieved by first proofing the applicability of the method in various geological media, followed by decreasing the risk of project failure by continuous development on reservoir identification, stimulation and management methods, both leading to higher chance of more favorable financing. The advances should progress alongside development of cheaper drilling technologies. Finally there is a need for increasing public awareness of the technology.

2015 JRC Geothermal Energy Status Report (PDF)

Education: Great New Video Explaining Geothermal Energy

Geothermal 101 (Dewhurst Group)

Our friends at Dewhurst and Geothermal News Report have produced an excellent video for school kids.



The first in a series of educational animations produced by Dewhurst Group, LLC, a geothermal exploration company, in collaboration with the Geothermal News Report.

En Español: https://youtu.be/-oyomRg6PBo

USA, Nevada: New Transmission Line Helps Deliver Geothermal Energy

Transmission line expansion called 'game changer' for clean energy in Nevada (Las Vegas Review-Journal)

A transmission line that is expected to significantly increase Nevada's ability to export clean energy will soon be under construction in Clark County.

The One Nevada Transmission Line, which recently connected the state's northern and southern power grids, is being expanded between the Harry Allen generating station in Clark County to the Eldorado substation south of Boulder City. The Harry Allen station is located near Interstate 15 and U.S. Highway 93 northeast of Las Vegas. The distance is about 65 miles.

The California Independent System Operator (CAISO) recently announced the selection of LS Power and NV Energy to jointly construct the expansion of the transmission line.

Gov. Brian Sandoval praised the development, calling it a step forward that will accelerate the integration and exportation of Nevada's renewable energy resources, including geothermal, solar, and wind.

Read More........

Philippines: PSALM Wants to Auction Off Remaining 40 MW of Unified Leyte Geothermal Power Plant

Bigger Leyte power auction eyed (The Standard)

Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. (PSALM) is seeking approval from the Philippines Energy Department to auction the contract to manage the remaining 40 MW capacity of the Unified Leyte geothermal power plants.

PSALM president Lourdes Alzona told reporters at the sidelines of a conference the agency was seeking guidance from the department on the inclusion of 40 MW of so-called security capacity to the bidding of the 160-MW bulk energy of the Unified Leyte power project.

The official said the bulk energy auction was scheduled for negotiated bidding in the first semester this year while the balance of 40 MW would need approval of the department.

PSALM has already privatized the 200 MW strips of energy contracts of the Unified Leyte power plant. PSALM earlier bid out the bulk energy contract where only one made an offer.

The Unified Leyte Geothermal Power Plant is composed of the 125 MW Upper Mahiao, 232.5 MW Malitbog, and 180 MW Mahanagdong power plants, and the 51 MW optimization stations.

Read More........

Germany: Enel Green Power Buys into 26 MW Geothermal Project in Bavaria

EGP enters German market (News Release)

The acquisition of a majority stake in Erdwärme Oberland will lead to the development of a geothermal project with a maximum expected capacity of 26 MW in Southern Germany

Enel Green Power has today taken its first step into the German renewable energy market with the acquisition of a 78.6% stake in Erdwärme Oberland GmbH (EO) from Erdwärme Bayern GmbH & Co., a company specialized in the development of geothermal projects in the Bavarian region. The acquisition was carried out through the issue of new shares in EO for a total consideration of 22 million euros, covering the initial investment requirements of the project.

EO has recently developed a project for the construction of a geothermal plant with a maximum expected capacity of about 26 MW. The project, located near the town of Weilheim, about 50 km south-west of Munich, will be developed under a mineral exploration concession granted by the Bavarian Ministry for Economic Affairs, Media, Energy and Technology valid for 3 years from December 2015 and in consultation with local communities. EO will begin with geological exploration activities in 2016.

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USA, N. Dakota: Geothermal Energy from Oil Co-Generation

UND researchers work to create pollution free electricity as oil prices tumble (Valley News Live)

As the price of oil plunged below 30-dollars a barrel today to its lowest level since 2003, University of North Dakota (UND) researchers are working with the Department of Energy in western North Dakota, to change the future of energy.

Researchers say it’s technology that could one day replace power plants that run with coal. Today, nearly 70-percent of the electricity in the United States is produced by burning fossil fuels.

The test project is getting underway at Rhame, near Bowman in the southwestern part of North Dakota. A special engine that can make steam out of warm water pumped out of the ground with oil, powers a turbine to create electricity.

GRC Member Will Gosnold, UND Geologist: “It actually boils at 60-degrees. So we can use the heat in the water that comes up with the oil. We heat that fluid and it flashes into steam and drives a turbine.”

The current project is just a test project to try and ramp up commercial electrical generation, which Gosnold says one day, could easily produce more electricity than coal fired plants, with zero pollution.

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USA, California: Workshop to Address Current Barriers Facing Geothermal Power Plant Operation

Workshop: Identifying Research Priorities on Flexibility and Other Operational Needs for Existing Geothermal Power Plants: A Pre-Solicitation Workshop (California Energy Commission)

Thursday, January 28, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. California Energy Commission, 1516 Ninth Street, 1st Floor, Charles Imbrecht Hearing Room, Sacramento, California

California Energy Commission staff will conduct a workshop to gather input from geothermal power stakeholders in order to identify research priorities that will address current barriers facing geothermal power plant operation. The focus will be on flexibility, cost drivers, and other issues. This workshop will help staff refine an upcoming solicitation to help address flexibility and other research and development (R&D) needs for existing geothermal facilities.

The workshop will include a panel discussion followed by comments and questions from the public. A panel of experts from a variety of backgrounds including industry, academia, utilities, and state and local agencies may be invited to participate in a moderated discussion aimed at identifying the most pressing research needs. The discussion will allow stakeholders to voice their opinions and suggest research recommendations.

More information..........                      Workshop Notice.........

Chile: Mannvit to Conduct Study of Geothermal Drilling Sector

World Bank Contract for Chile Geothermal Report (Mannvit)

Young lavas and drilling rig on Tolhuaca volcano, Chile,
Jim Stimac, Geoglobal Energy LLC, Santa Rosa, CA

The World Bank Group has awarded Icelandic company Mannvit, it’s Chile subsidiary GTN Latin America (GTNLA), local subcontractors and Fundación Chile a contract for “Technical Assistance for Geothermal Development in Chile”.

The project is for a comprehensive study of the Chilean drilling sector, including conducting a technical and economic analysis of alternatives to develop the geothermal sector at lower prices, doing a comparative analysis of other established geothermal drilling markets, and recommendations on how to increase the efficiency of the Chilean geothermal drilling sector to lower the hurdles for the geothermal developers in Chile.

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USA, Oregon: Newberry Geothermal Energy is New Name for Oregon FORGE Candidate

Introducing Newberry Geothermal Energy

Newberry Geothermal Energy (NEWGEN) is a collaborative effort lead by a team of researchers from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Oregon State University and AltaRock Energy, Inc. Combining research, academic and industry experience, this dynamic group will push geothermal energy research forward at the Newberry Volcano Enhanced Geothermal Energy (EGS) field site.

Newberry Geothermal Energy is funded by the US Department of Energy (DOE) through a competitive grant process which provides staged funding opportunities over the next several years. Five initial teams and field sites were selected in early 2015 to kick-off the DOE Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE) initiative, and the Newberry site is a strong contender amongst them.

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Kenya: Possible Funding for 70 MW Olkaria I Geothermal Power Plant Extension

EIB Considers Funding 70 MW Unit for Kenyan Geothermal (Renewable Energy World)

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is considering to finance an extension to a geothermal plant in southwestern Kenya, lending 72 million euros ($78 million).

The Luxembourg-based development bank said the Olkaria I Unit 6 power station in Kenya is under appraisal in a release on its website. The unit was first built in 1981 and is Africa’s first geothermal power plant, according to the Kenya Electricity Generating Co Ltd. who owns and operates it.

The extension would raise its capacity from 140 MW to 210 MW. The total cost of the project is estimated to be 288 million euros.

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Honduras: 35-MW Platanares Project Begins Construction

Ormat Technologies (ORA) Commence Construction of 35-MW Platanares Project (StreetInsider.com)

Ormat Technologies, Inc. announced that its indirect, wholly owned subsidiary has commenced construction of the 35 MW Platanares geothermal project in Honduras.

In 2013, Ormat signed a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) contract for the Geotérmica Platanares geothermal project in Honduras with Electricidad de Cortes S.A. (ELCOSA), a privately owned Honduran energy company, for approximately 15 years from commercial operation date (COD). In December 2015, Ormat concluded the drilling activity as well as extensive tests that support the decision to construct a 35 MW project, which is larger than initially estimated.

Geotérmica Platanares will sell its power, mainly under 30-year power purchase agreements with the national utility of Honduras, Empresa Nacional de Energia Electrica (ENEE). The project expects to reach commercial operation by the end of 2017 and generate average annual revenue of approximately $33 million.

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Taiwan: Geothermal Energy Production Within Four Years

Taipower to invest NT$400 billion in renewable energy (Taipei Times)

State-owned Taiwan Power Co (Taipower) yesterday said it plans to invest more than NT$400 billion (US$11.89 billion) in the development of renewable energy sources over the next 15 years, with the aim of expanding the nation’s total installed offshore wind power capacity to 180 MW and total installed solar power capacity to 100 MW by 2030.

The company also plans to harness energy from geothermal sources in volcanic areas of Taitung and Yangmingshan in Taipei over the next four years.

Read More.......                 More stories on Taiwan.........

Canada: Nova Scotia Town Advances Project to Use Geothermal Energy from Abandoned Mine Shafts

Cumberland Energy, Verschuren Centre Partner on Springhill Geothermal Study

The Cumberland Energy Authority in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia, announced a new partnership with the Verschuren Centre for Sustainability in Energy and the Environment to research the commercial potential for geothermal energy in Springhill.

The Cumberland Energy Authority has also partnered with students from the Management Without Borders program at Dalhousie University to develop a comprehensive external/internal analysis and a preliminary communications plan for the development of a Springhill Geothermal Green Industrial Park.

The report recommends the following:

• Continue studies on existing mineshafts to develop a better understanding of capacity.
• Explore the creation of long term monitoring programs of companies currently using geothermal.
• Ensure legal requirements are in place prior to development.
• Investigate funding/incentive mechanisms to promote development.

When the mine in Springhill closed in 1958, the No.2 seam had reached a length of 4,400m, and a total vertical depth 1,320m (Herteis, 2006). This now represents a large geothermal reservoir, flooded with ground water naturally heated from the Earth (Herteis, 2006). The high volume of water in this flooded mine shaft presents a great opportunity for the development of a geothermal industrial park. 

Information Sheet on Geothermal Study
To read the full report, please see Springhill Geothermal Green Industrial Park Initiative.

Washington DC: Opportunity to Promote Geothermal Energy Partnerships in Africa

Powering Africa: Summit, 27-29th January 2016

The meeting place for African governments and global power investors

The Powering Africa: Summit (PAS) is a platform to showcase power, trade and infrastructure investment opportunities across the African continent, engaging decision makers from the American and African public and private sectors to explore how project bankability can be increased.

President Obama’s Power Africa initiative has helped map the way for project investment, giving a platform to global investment funds and showcasing the role they can play in driving forward the development of Africa’s power sector. PAS 2016 will build on this progress in Washington, D.C. in two weeks time.

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United Kingdom: Deadline for PhD Studentship on Krafla Rhyolite Geothermal Project is This Wednesday

PhD Volcanology Opportunity at Lancaster University, England, UK

From Dr Hugh Tuffen, reader in Volcanology at Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, UK:

"Geothermal Production, by Mother and Man" by Joseph F. Batir. Geothermal pipelines in the Krafla geothermal field with steam in the background from geothermal surface manifestations. Krafla, Iceland. Taken September 2 2010.

An exciting volcanology PhD opportunity at Lancaster University, starting in October 2016, on magma-geothermal interactions at Krafla volcano in Iceland.

The project will involve fieldwork, geochemistry and textural analysis to reconstruct how shallow rhyolitic magma interacts with external water, in collaboration with volcanologists at the British Geological Survey and University of Liverpool, and Landsvirkjun in Iceland. The field site will be the spectacular rhyolitic dyke and intrusions at Hrafntinnuhryggur, close to the geothermal power station.

A key aspect to investigate is how fracturing and mineral precipitation influence the permeabilty of intrusion margins. This is because the potential exploitation of magmatic intrusions as a powerful geothermal heat source critically depends upon the permeability at the magma-geothermal interface. Project results will therefore inform ongoing research into magma drilling at Krafla, which is scheduled for 2017.

You can visit the IDDP website (http://iddp.is/) for the background to magma drilling at Krafla, including this short film: https://youtu.be/3d8hC71xGpc. More information on the Envision DTP site (http://www.envision-dtp.org/), but please get in touch in advance if you are interested. Eligibility: UK/EU students only. Deadline for the PhD studentship is this Wednesday.

Email Dr Tuffen at h.tuffen@lancaster.ac.uk

USA, California: Geothermal Energy Helps the Golden State through a Bad Weather Day

#ISO @California_ISO @californiapuc ♨ Yesterday #geothermal was the #1 #renewableenergy in #California ♨ https://t.co/3ggTJYKwUB … #ElNino

— Geothermal Resources (@GRC2001) January 11, 2016

USA, California: Progress to Restoration Could Include Geothermal Energy Opportuniites

Salton Sea: Is Inland lake on road to revival? (Press-Enterprise)

More progress has been made toward restoring the Salton Sea in the past year than in the entire decade before.

Last week when Gov. Jerry Brown released his proposed 2016-2017 budget, it included an unprecedented $80 million for projects at the ailing lake and 17 positions dedicated to Salton Sea work.

A couple of days before, the state water board gathered input on efforts to revive the Salton Sea, which faces environmental devastation from shrinking inflows.

And at Red Hill Bay on the lake’s eastern bank, work continues on the first significant rehab project, which will improve bird habitat and quell some of the toxic dust blowing from the exposed shoreline.

The Salton Sea Restoration & Renewable Energy Initiative, by the Imperial Irrigation District and Imperial County, would combine habitat with geothermal and other renewable energy projects on exposed lake bed to reduce blowing dust, and use the revenue from leases to help fund future restoration efforts.

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Global: Latest News from the International Geothermal Association

IGA Newsletter N°102, January - March 2016 (IGA)

The Board of the IGA at the 62nd BoD Meeting and International Seminar in Morelia, Mexico

The latest IGA Newsletter N°102 for the period January-March 2016 is available for download.

• Message from the President
• Call for Voting on Further Amendment of Bylaws
• 62nd BoD Meeting and International Seminar
• Announcement of the UNFC-2009 White Paper
• Call for Applications for IGA Funds
• IGA Participation in the SAIREC
• IGA at the COP 21 in Paris
• Geothermal Energy Science (GtES)

Download the Newsletter (PDF)

USA: Reference Manual for Green Taxes Includes Updates for ITC and PTC

Green Tax Incentive Compendium: Federal and State Tax Incentives for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency ( Robinson+Cole)

Jerome L. Garciano has updated his Green Tax Incentive Compendium which includes information about incentives for geothermal projects.

The volume presents certain U.S. federal and state tax incentives promoting the renewable energy and energy efficiency industries. Each section outlines the basic features and regulatory requirements for a tax program which provides financial incentives for clean technology development through renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.

Green Tax Incentive Compendium: Federal and State Tax Incentives for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (PDF)