Education: Pros and Cons of Geothermal Energy

Geothermal Energy Advantages And Disadvantages (PlanetSave.com)

The advantages outweigh the disadvantages, especially if geothermal is compared with fossil fuels. 

Geothermal Mist, by Paweł Krok, Lubawka, Poland

Geothermal energy’s main advantages are that it is generated cleanly and renewably. That is, electricity produced by geothermal plants produces no carbon emissions or air pollution like burning coal, gas, and oil do.

Of course, producing clean electricity is better for human health and the environment because of the lack of air pollution. Millions of human deaths occur each year from air pollution. In fact, in 2012 the World Health Organization found that an estimated 7 million died in that year from it. Air pollution also negatively impacts wildlife, including fish.

Geothermal energy technology can be built at the utility-scale and it can be installed in structures like homes and businesses. For both applications, geothermal energy is available constantly, unlike solar and wind power.

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Global: Nominations Now Open for GRC Geothermal Awards

The GRC Awards – Seeking the Best in Global Geothermal

Nominations are now open. The winners will be announced at the GRC Annual Meeting in Sacramento, California, USA.

2015 Joseph W. Aidlin Award winner Gene Suemnicht (left)
with GRC President Paul Brophy

The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) is pleased to announce the opening of nominations for this year’s GRC Awards. The awards recognize distinguished colleagues in the geothermal community from around the world and have been a highlight of the geothermal calendar since the late 1970’s.

The winners will be honored at the GRC Awards Luncheon, the climax to the GRC Annual Meeting being held in Sacramento, California, USA from October 23 –26. The theme for this year’s meeting is Geothermal Energy, Here and Now: Sustainable, Clean, Flexible.

“The recipients of these awards often have a lifetime of achievement in the academic, scientific and commercial geothermal communities,” said GRC Executive Director Steve Ponder. “These awards are considered among the most prestigious in the geothermal community.”

More information on the GRC Awards, including a nomination form, can be found on the GRC website. The deadline for nominations is June 24, 2016.

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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.

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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Kenya: More Loans to Finance Geothermal Energy Development

Kenya to tap into Rift Valley geothermal resources and strengthen private sector investment in renewable energy (News Release)

With African Development Bank (AfDB) support, Kenya has received approval from the Climate Investment Funds' Clean Technology Fund (CIF-CTF) for a US $29.65-million concessional loan to co-finance up to two geothermal projects to increase the country's power capacity, particularly drawing on untapped geothermal resources in the Rift Valley. The Concessional Finance Program for Geothermal Generation will build on the energy advancements already underway in the successful development of the country's showcase Menengai Geothermal Field.

The CTF funds will create a concessional lending program designed to ensure the projects' financial viability and commercial bankability by shoring up conventional financing and breaking down barriers to private investment. The program will support up to two geothermal generation projects structured as Independent Power Producers (IPPs), and will be implemented with AfDB support.

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Philippines: Geothermal Could Power Three Islands

Calayan islands eyed as potential source of geothermal energy (Philippine Information Agency)

Three island barangays here have been identified by the Department of Energy (DOE) that have high potential to become geothermal facilities.

Engr. Ariel D. Fronda, chief of the DOE’s Geothermal Energy Management Division, said these areas are Camiguin, Dalupiri and Babuyan Claro.

“We have an on-going exploratory activities in these areas to evaluate their potential geothermal energy capacities that might be suitable for power generation with the use of binary technology and other direct-use applications,” Fronda said.

“If the geothermal energy resources in the island town are suitable for power generation, then we will promote these geothermal areas to investors for geothermal energy exploration, development and utilization,” he said.

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Australia: Origin Sells Stake in 240 MW Sorik Marapi Geothermal Power Project

Origin sells geothermal asset for $US30m (The Australian)

Australian company Origin Energy will get $US30 million ($A39.97 million) for its stake in an Indonesian geothermal project as it continues to sell assets in response to weak oil prices.

The company has agreed to sell its 50 per cent interest in OTP Geothermal to Icelandic energy firm KS Orka Renewables.

OTP holds a major stake in a company developing the 240 megawatt Sorik Marapi geothermal power plant in North Sumatra.

"The divestment ... is consistent with the company's strategy to reduce debt and narrow its focus to two core businesses, energy markets and integrated gas," Origin said.

The Tata Power Company Limited announced on Friday that its wholly owned subsidiary, Singapore-based Tata Power International Pte. Limited (TPIPL), has signed an agreement with KS Orka Renewables Pte. Ltd. for the sale of its 50 per cent stake in OTP Geothermal Pte. Ltd. (OTP).

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Ireland has an Excellent Source of Shallow Geothermal Energy

Using geo thermal energy a ‘must’ we are to reach renewable energy targets (Irish Examiner)

Every part of the country has the potential to harness geothermal energy and the technology could play a key role in Ireland hitting its renewable energy targets.

Research launched by the Geological Survey of Ireland at yesterday’s Geothermal Association of Ireland conference at the Energy Show 2016, highlights that every location in Ireland has the potential to harness shallow geothermal energy using ground source heat pumps.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Geothermal Association of Ireland chairman Ric Pasquali said geothermal energy was “one of Ireland’s hidden assets” when it comes to alternative means of heating and cooling homes and businesses.

“Ireland has an excellent source of shallow geothermal energy, which, coupled with a heat pump technology, can be used for space heating, cooling and hot water,” said Mr Pasquali. “It is also cost efficient, returning an average consistent delivery of up to four units of heat for every unit of electricity used to power the pumps. Geothermal is also the only renewable energy source that is available 24/7, regardless of climatic conditions.”

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USA, Hawaii: Geothermal Job in Oahu

Employment Opportunity - Mineral Resources Specialist

State of Hawaii Executive Branch, Department of Land and Natural Resources, Engineering Division

This position is responsible for serving as planner-in-charge of departmental geothermal resources management activities by conducting studies, performing analyses, preparing plans and coordinating activities related to the proper management of geothermal resources and development of geothermal energy in Hawaii. Performs other duties as assigned. Salary: $4,603.00 - $6,813.00 per month.

More Information........

Science & Technology: United States Patent Application for Geothermal Downhole Pump

Apparatus And Method For Preventing Damage To A Downhole Pump Impeller (US Patent Office)

A downhole pump is used to extract a natural resource such as oil, geothermal fluid, and potable water from a deep well. A typical downhole pump is a vertical turbine pump which has three main parts: the head assembly which comprises the motor for driving the pump, the shaft and column assembly, and the pump bowl assembly. The lower pump bowl assembly comprises the stationary bowl and the impeller for accelerating the flow of the fluid to be extracted, which rotates within the bowl. The shaft and column assembly provides the connection between the head assembly and the pump bowl assembly. The line shaft transmits torque from the pump motor to the impellers and rotates internally to the column. The extracted fluid is transported within the column to the surface.

Vertical turbine pumps have thrust loads acting parallel to the line shaft that include downward forces due to unbalanced pressure forces, downward forces due to the weight of the rotating parts, and upward forces due a change in momentum as a result of the flow though the impellers. The line shaft may be subjected to excessive upthrust forces when the pump is operated at very high flow rates which can lead to various mechanical problems such as deformation of the line shaft, bearing wear, and damage to the impellers by being rubbed against the bowls.

It would be desirable to provide data regarding the position of the impeller in order to determine whether it is liable to be damaged.

The present invention advantageously provides an apparatus and method for accurately measuring the position of a downhole pump impeller, in order to prevent damage thereto.

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Global: Geothermal Energy Capacity Increased 5% in 2015 - IRENA

2015 Sets Record for Renewable Energy, New IRENA Data Shows (News Release)

Renewable power generation capacity grew 8.3% in 2015, the highest rate ever recorded

Renewable generation capacity increased by 152 gigawatts (GW) or 8.3% during 2015, the highest annual growth rate on record, according to  new data released by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Renewable Capacity Statistics 2016 finds that as of the end of 2015, 1,985 GW of renewable generation capacity existed globally.

2015 was a record year for both wind and solar due in large part to a continued decline in technology costs. Wind power grew 63 GW (17%) driven by declines in onshore turbine prices of up to 45% since 2010. Solar capacity increased 47 GW (37%) thanks to price drops of up to 80% for solar photovoltaic modules in the same time period. Hydropower capacity increased by 35 GW (3%), while both bioenergy and geothermal energy capacity increased 5% each (5 GW and 1 GW respectively).

Geothermal power capacity increased by about 600 MW in 2015. Four countries (Italy, Mexico, Turkey and the United States of America) accounted for almost all of this increase.

Renewable Energy Capacity Statistics 2016

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Philippines: Local Mayor Supports EDC's 60 MW Geothermal Expansion Project

Valencia mayor supports geothermal expansion plan (Philstar)

Southern Negros Geothermal Production Field (SNGPF) (Courtesy EDC)

Amidst objections by an environmentalists group, Valencia Mayor Edgar Teves has reiterated his endorsement of support to the proposed 60-megawatt geothermal expansion project by the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) in the Southern Negros Geothermal Project.

Teves said the expansion project at Palinpinon will increase the steam field capacity, from 222.5 megawatts to 285.5 megawatts of power, required to support the increase demand as projected in late 2017.

The mayor also said, the town would benefit more from royalties and business taxes, and that the EDC has proven itself to be committed to responsible development, in maintaining a healthy environment in its areas of operation, under its 10-million-trees-in-10-years program.

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USA, Hawaii: Ormat Begins Injection Well Remediation at Puna Geothermal Venture

Drilling to clear blocked well at PGV begins later this month (Hawaii Tribune Herald)

Puna Geothermal Venture plans to start drilling later this month to clear a blocked injection well at the Pahoa-area power plant.

The work is scheduled to begin April 21 and involves 12 days of drilling throughout the course of about a month, said Mike Kaleikini, senior director of Hawaiian affairs for Ormat Technologies, PGV’s parent company.

The move is expected to boost production at the plant, which is operating below capacity, by 8 megawatts, he said.

The geothermal power plant has contracts with Hawaii Electric Light Co. to provide 38 megawatts, but it is only producing about 28 megawatts. HELCO says it makes up the difference by increasing production at its oil-powered plants.

Kaleikini said part of the problem is the well appears to be partially blocked, allowing less fluid to be re-injected deep into the ground. Plant officials hope to sidestep that by drilling at a slight angle at 4,400 feet down. The target depth is 7,000 feet.

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Finance: Project Finance Explained

Good Fences Make Good Financing: Project Finance Explained (EERE)

At the U.S. Department of Energy, one of our key missions is supporting research, development and deployment of new technologies. How do we do this? We fund projects of all sorts. One way we do this is through project finance.

Project finance is a common way for large infrastructure projects to structure funding that offers companies and investors many benefits over traditional corporate finance. In project finance, a company (or “project sponsor”) raises capital through a special purpose vehicle (SPV)—essentially a “shell” holding company—and equity and debt holders rely on the cash flows of the assets in this entity to recover their investment. The SPV adds additional protection—a fence—to the company because it owns the project, and in turn is owned by the project sponsor and other investors.

For more information, read the full article at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’sProject Finance website.

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Finance: Economies Can Still Grow While Cutting CO2 Emissions

These 21 countries are cutting carbon while growing GDP (GreenBiz)

The United States is the largest country to experience multiple consecutive years in which economic growth has been "decoupled" from growth in carbon dioxide emissions.

From 2010 to 2012, energy-related carbon dioxide emissions declined by 6 percent (from 5.58 to 5.23 billion metric tons), while GDP grew by 4 percent (from $14.8 to $15.4 trillion).

In its analysis of the Clean Power Plan, the U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasts that moving to a cleaner electricity system after 2020 would bring about a sustained period of GDP-GHG decoupling.

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Science & Technology: The Sound of Mud Pots

In A Corner Of Southern California, Cauldrons Of Muddy Water Bubble (NPR)

"The World According to Sound" podcast brings us to Southern California near the Salton Sea where unique geothermal conditions allow for "mud pots" — caldrons of thick, muddy water bubbling with the release of hot water and gas from deep underground.

USA, California: Imperial County Supports Development of Baseload Renewable Energy

Supervisors Send Letter in Support of AB2700 (Holtville Tribune)

The Imperial County Board of Supervisors has approved a letter of support in favor of a bill that will improve the energy procurement in California.

At Tuesday’s regular County Board of Supervisors meeting, the Board endorsed AB 2700, authored by Assemblyman Rudy Salas. This bill would require the California Public Utilities Commission to update the least cost, best fit alternatives criteria so that this analysis comprehensively reflects the values appropriately outlined in the statue of particular energy resources.

Over the last two years, the Imperial County Board of Supervisors has worked to support legislation that would provide for a greater use of those resources in the State’s RPS process. Despite these efforts of the County, IID, and many others, they did not succeed.

Supervisor Ryan Kelley suggested the county re-group and try a new plan that would be broader based and more inclusive effort to create a future for baseload renewable energy. Last November, Imperial County asked other counties with geothermal or biomass to join them and baseload industry leaders to craft a path forward for these industries.

Since then, meetings with affected counties and industry leaders have been held, information has been generated, next steps have been defined, and the effort to craft a future for baseload energy in California has begun.

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Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: Outreach to Locals by St. Vincent Geothermal Company

St. Vincent Geothermal Company to Host a Community Meeting This Weekend to Discuss The National Geothermal Project (WEFM)

Saturday, April 9 at 4pm at the Touruma Primary School at Over Land

The St. Vincent Geothermal Company will be hosting a community meeting to discuss aspects of the National Geothermal Project

A release from the company says the meeting will be held this Saturday, April 9 at 4pm at the Touruma Primary School at Over Land.

The purpose of the meeting is to introduce processes for livelihood restoration where applicable, and resolution of concerns and complaints for the communities of Orange Hill and Georgetown, as well as other related Stakeholders adjacent or close to the proposed drilling sites for the next phase of the Geothermal Project.

Company representatives will provide updates on the Geothermal Project, introduce the Project Grievance (Complaints) Mechanism and the Resettlement Action Plan.

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GRC Geothermal News Resource is Followed by 3,000 Around the World

GRC Twitter Feed Reaches 3,000 Followers!

The Twitter feed of the Geothermal Resources Council has reached the milestone of 3,000 Followers!

Launched in June 2011, The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) has posted more than 10,000 Tweets, short 140-character messages, on the GRC Twitter website attracting over 3,000 followers and in turn following the news and information from over 2,300 sources.

As the oldest information and education association in the global geothermal energy community, the GRC is the trusted source for the latest geothermal energy news.

Get the latest Geothermal Energy news on your desktop computer or mobile device: https://twitter.com/GRC2001

Thanks for all our followers in the global geothermal community for your continued support.

Finance: Public Financing Focusing More on Early Stages of Geothermal Development.

A Rising Model: Public Finance in Early Stage Geothermal Development (Renewable Energy World)

By Jennifer Delony, Associate Editor, Renewable Energy World

Developers now have more public financing options available to support the exploration and test drilling phases of geothermal development, where high risk traditionally has limited funding opportunities.

The physical risks associated with early-stage geothermal development are constant, and barring some major technological advancements, there's little to suggest that those risks will change substantively in the near-term. 

Analysts say exploration costs can account for up to 15 percent of the capital cost of a geothermal project, and the rate of success in the early stages can be between 50-60 percent. Despite the importance of preliminary surveys, exploration and test drilling in the project life cycle, public financing has been focused most often on later stages of development. 

That trend, however, is changing.

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Croatia: Construction Starts at Garden of Croatia Geothermal Project

The Garden of Croatia - Hortus Croatiae Renewable Energy Project (total croatia news)

The first phase will include construction of a Hybrid Geothermal Power Plant (7 MWe, 24+MWth + extension to up to 17 MWe, 40+MWth).

An artist's impression of the "Garden of Croatia" project

An investment project "Hybrid Geothermal Power plants AAT Geothermae" will mark the start of mining and construction works in Draškovec/Medjimurje with a ceremony on April 8, 2016, at the construction site, the company reported on its website.

The project involves construction of a holistic wellness & health resort with an additional attraction in the form of tropical gardens; geothermal energy power plant of new generation based on own sustainable geothermal source with combined steam and gas production of electricity (7 MWe) and heat (24+MWth), and residential village development with villas and apartments surrounded by golf
course and the drinking and mineral water bottling plant from own source on the site.

The first phase will include construction of a Hybrid Geothermal Power Plant (7 MWe, 24+MWth + extension to up to 17 MWe, 40+MWth).

“The aim is to achieve a considerably lower price than with any other energy sources. Work in Draškovec is already underway. We want to complete the power plant by the end of the year and the project is currently in the deep drilling phase. We started working on other infrastructure parts of the project such as cables connected to the main power line and we are preparing for the construction of the access road and drainage system for power plants” said adviser for AAT Geothermae Peter Vesenjak.

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India: Icelandic Firms Offer to Drill at Two Geothermal Sites for Free

India-Iceland Joint Statement during the visit of Foreign Minister of Iceland to India ( Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India)

During the visit, Foreign Minister Sveinsson had a meeting with Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of State (Independent charge) for Power, Coal and New & Renewable Energy.

They discussed their mutual interest in promoting renewable energy and in cooperating in the area of geothermal energy, where Icelandic and Indian companies are exploring the possibilities of setting up joint ventures to harness geothermal energy in India.

Sveinsson said he hoped Iceland will have major part in helping India tap its potential in this sector.

The minister was carrying with him two project proposals for India’s consideration. “Icelandic firms are prepared to drill at their cost at two sites in India to demonstrate the potential for the technology,” he said.

The two sites identified are at Puga in Ladakh region for a 5 MW plant and a 10 MW plant at Tattapani, Chattisgarh.

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USA, Nevada: 385 MW of Geothermal Helps Nevada Utility Meet Renewable Requirement

NV Energy Exceeds Renewable Requirement for 2015 (News Release)

NV Energy has filed its required 2015 Renewable Portfolio Standard Annual Report with the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada, showing that the company achieved a 21.2 percent renewable credit level in southern Nevada and 31.3 percent level in northern Nevada.  The 2015 legislated requirement is 20 percent, based on total energy sales.

Today NV Energy customers are served by 20 geothermal energy resources 12 community-scale solar fields, a large wind farm in eastern Nevada and a dozen small hydro and biomass projects throughout the state. In total, these projects are more than 1,300 megawatts of nameplate capacity. If all were operating at the same time they would generate enough energy to serve approximately 750,000 homes in Nevada.

The Nevada Renewable Portfolio Standard requirement continues to climb, as state law requires the energy company to achieve a 22 percent level in 2020, and 25 percent in 2025.

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Indonesia, Philippines: Two Companies Vie for Chevron Geothermal

Engie, Marubeni eye Chevron geothermal assets (Energy Voice)

Engie, a French multinational electric utility company and Marubeni, a sōgō shōsha headquartered in Ōtemachi, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan, are said to be among several suitors planning to bid for Chevron’s geothermal energy blocks, according to reports.

Buyers for the assets, which are estimated to be worth around $3billion, are said to be attracted by the opportunity to gain control of large blocks of geothermal assets located in Indonesia and the Philippines.

A banker involved in the process said:”There’s a lot of jostling going on to see who’s teaming up with whom. I expect to see companies forming consortiums for this big sale. The Japanese are key as whoever ties up with them would have access to low cost funding and that boosts their chances.”

Indicative bids for the assets are expected later this month. Chevron is said to have kicked off the auction last month for the potential sale.

Two Chevron subsidiaries operate geothermal projects in Salak and Darajat fields in west Java with a capacity to generate nearly 650 megawatts of electricity.

Chevron has a 40 percent interest in Philippine Geothermal Production Company, Inc. (PGPC). PGPC develops and produces steam energy for the third-party-owned and -operated Tiwi and Mak-Ban geothermal power plants in southern Luzon. They have a combined generating capacity of 692 megawatts.

Chevron also has an interest in the Kalinga geothermal prospect area in northern Luzon. The company continues to assess the prospect area. If successful, the steam resources could support 100 megawatts of capacity.

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USA: Merger of Geothermal Services Companies Halted

US seeks to scupper $25bn Halliburton-Baker Hughes deal (Financial Times)

The US government on Wednesday filed a lawsuit to block the proposed $25bn takeover by oil services group Halliburton of its rival Baker Hughes.

The filing by the Department of Justice could be the final blow for a deal that has faced intense scrutiny from competition regulators in the US and Europe. 

In the lawsuit, antitrust regulators argued that the tie-up “threatens to eliminate competition, raise prices and reduce innovation in the oilfield services industry.”

“The proposed deal between Halliburton and Baker Hughes would eliminate vital competition, skew energy markets and harm American consumers,” attorney-general Loretta Lynch said in a statement.

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St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Loan to Finance 10 MW Geothermal Project to Go Ahead

Parliament Approves Bill Authorizing Government to Secure Loan to Assist in Financing Development of Geothermal Energy

A Bill to authorize the government to secure a loan to assist in financing the development of Geothermal Energy here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines was passed in Parliament on Tuesday April 5th 2016.

The loan from the Abu Dhabi fund for Development, amounting to 15 million US dollars, will go toward the government’s Geothermal Energy project.

In presenting the Bill in Parliament, Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves explained that a lot of work has already been done in relation to the geothermal energy project and he outlined some of the works that are planned to be carried out this year.

Dr. Gonsalves said the Geothermal Plant is scheduled to be constructed between March, 2018 and April, 2019, and added that the plan is to have about 10 megawatts of geothermal capacity installed in the first instance.

Read More........                          More Stories on St Vincent and the Grenadines.......

Kenya: Akiira Geothermal to Drill Two More Wells Starting in June

Centum firm eyes more steam power wells in Sh1bn plan (Business Daily Africa)

Akiira Geothermal Ltd, a consortium developing geothermal power, plans to double its exploration wells by year-end at a cost of Sh1.4 billion as part of its plans to generate 70 megawatts (MW) of steam power within the next two years.

Drilling of two more wells will start in June in Akiira Valley in the Naivasha steam fields.

The project last month received a Sh138 million grant from the African Union Commission. The geothermal project is expected to inject 70 MW to the grid in the next 18 months, or end of next year. The electricity will cost Sh9.3 per unit (9.23 US cents).

Akiira Geothermal is owned by Centum Investments in conjunction with three other non-Kenyan entities that include Ram Energy of the United States, Marine power of the USA and Frontier Investment Management.

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USA: Doug Hollett Moves on to Manage Fossil Fuels

Fossil Energy Announces New Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (DOE)

Douglas Hollett, Program Manager for the Department's Geothermal Technologies
Office addressing the Opening Session of the 36th GRC Annual Meeting

The Department of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy today announced the appointment of Doug Hollett as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) in the Office of Fossil Energy (FE).  Hollett replaces Dr. Julio Friedmann, who is returning to Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory after two and half years with FE.

As PDAS, Hollett’s portfolio includes oversight of R&D and programs in Clean Coal and Carbon Management, Oil and Natural Gas systems, international engagements in clean fossil energy, and inter-agency engagements within the U.S. government.

Prior to being named PDAS in FE, Hollett served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Renewable Power in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), where he oversaw research, development, and demonstration projects for a diverse clean energy portfolio. From 2011-2014, he was Director of the EERE Geothermal Technologies Office.

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Science & Technology: Patent Application for Hybrid Geothermal/Nuclear Power Plant

United States Patent - System and method for power generation using a hybrid geothermal power plant including a nuclear plant (United States Patent and Trademark Office)

A hybrid geothermal power system is discussed. The system includes a geothermal system including power plant (101) and pumping station (102) and a nuclear plant (103). Pumping station (102) is used to inject fluid from reservoir (104) through an injection well (105) into the bedrock (106) (also referred to as the hot dry rock HDR zone) and extracted via a secondary bore (extraction well) usually coupled to the power plant (101).

In the present example however the injection well is linked to the extraction well (107). As fluid is injected into the bedrock a drop in temperature occurs due to heat transfer to the fluid. Nuclear plant (103) is utilized to combat this drop, the plant (103) has the fissionable components (1091, 1092, 1093) of the reactor positioned within bores (1081, 1082, 1083) within the HDR zone.

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USA: Opinion - Prospect of Keeping Energy Affordable While Saving the Planet Should Inspire Leaders to Bolder Action.

A Renewable Energy Boom (NY Times)

Some world leaders, especially in developing countries like India, have long said it’s hard to reduce the emissions that are warming the planet because they need to use relatively inexpensive — but highly carbon-intensive — fuels like coal to keep energy affordable. That argument is losing its salience as the cost of renewable energy sources like wind and solar continues to fall.

Last year, for the first time, renewables accounted for a majority of new electricity-generating capacity added around the world, according to a recent United Nations report. More than half the $286 billion invested in wind, solar and other renewables occurred in emerging markets like China, India and Brazil — also for the first time. Excluding large hydroelectric plants, 10.3 percent of all electricity generated globally in 2015 came from renewables, roughly double the amount in 2007, according to the report.

The falling cost of renewables is a clear plus. The prospect of keeping energy affordable while saving the planet should inspire leaders to bolder action.

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USA, Hawaii: Utility Plans for 118 MW Geothermal Energy by 2045

HECO Submits Plan For Hawaii To Meet 100% Renewables Mandate (Solar Industry)

Hawaiian Electric Co. (HECO) has revealed its latest plan charting a 30-year course on how Hawaii could meet the state’s aggressive 100% by 2045 renewable portfolio standard (RPS), which was passed last year. The plan focuses largely on grid modernization and, of course, renewable energy.

HECO and its subsidiaries – Maui Electric and Hawaii Electric Light Co. – submitted the Power Supply Improvement Plan Update to the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for review.

According to HECO, the energy plan update includes detailed computer modeling of more than 130 different scenarios that could possibly meet the ambitious 100% renewable energy goal. The plan says that, by 2045, the diverse mix of resources serving Oahu, Maui County and Hawaii Island could include the following:

• 1,215 MW of private rooftop solar energy;
• 36 MW of feed-in-tariff solar energy;
• 872 MW of utility-scale solar energy;
• 529 MW of onshore wind energy;
• 800 MW of offshore wind energy;
• 21 MW of hydropower; and
• 118 MW of geothermal energy.

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Iceland: Radio Documentary on Geothermal Energy

From Iceland with Love (BBC Radio 4)

The Ice Link inter-connector would link Iceland's cheap and carbon free electricity from hydro and geothermal to the UK. It could provide the equivalent power of a medium sized power plant through a copper cable laid under the sea between the two countries. 

Crucially the power would be reliable and available when other renewable sources such as wind and solar are not. However, as Tom Heap discovers when he visits the land of fire and ice, environmental campaigners like Bjork fear that this green solution for UK homes could create a need to develop into the pristine wilderness of Iceland's Highlands. 

Should we pursue our global climate goals even if it has the potential to affect untouched and fragile landscape elsewhere? Tough decisions for Iceland and for us all. 

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United Kingdom: Joint Venture Formed to Develop Crewe Geothermal District Heating Project

Energy partnership formed to 'secure low-carbon future' for east Cheshire (Crewe Guardian)

A partnership has been formed to help ‘secure a low-carbon future’ for east Cheshire.

Cheshire East Council have teamed up with French multinational electric utility company ENGIE, a global player in the development of renewable energy generation including geothermal.

The new company, which is aimed at promoting eco-efficient district heating networks in east Cheshire, will be called Cheshire Energy Networks Ltd.

When fully developed, district heating networks will help residents and businesses to benefit from cleaner, more affordable and secure energy.

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USA: Political Winds Blowing Against Extension of the ITC

Renewable tax fight resurrected in aviation bill debate (Environment & Energy Publishing)

U.S. Capitol (Courtesy Wikipedia Commons)

Senate Democrats are pushing to extend a key renewable tax break for a number of power sources in legislation to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that is slated to receive a vote later this week.

Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) yesterday filed cloture on a House-passed tax measure, H.R. 636, that will be the vehicle for the FAA bill, with the procedural vote expected tomorrow.

Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), the ranking member on the Finance Committee, said yesterday that discussions continue on including an extension of the investment tax credit (ITC) for qualifying energy sources, including combined heat and power systems, geothermal, small wind and fuel cells, that were left out of the end-of-year omnibus spending and tax package enacted in December.

That package extended the ITC for solar for five years but, due to what Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) has called a mistake, did not extend to other sources.

The political winds are already blowing against an extension of the ITC. A coalition of conservative groups opposed to renewable tax credits last night sent a letter to senators urging them to oppose adding the omitted extensions to the FAA measure.

"The $1.4 billion in expiring tax provisions currently under consideration -- pertaining to wind power, geothermal heat pumps, fuel cell facilities and combined heat and power (CHP) properties -- are a distortion of the tax laws for special interests in the renewable energy industry and were wisely left out of this package," wrote the coalition of 34 groups, including Americans for Prosperity, Freedom Partners and Heritage Action for America.

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Kenya: Video on Japans Involvement in Kenyan Geothermal Projects

Geothermal energy helps power Kenya’s future (euronews)

Kenya’s rift valley boasts a mind-blowing safari landscape. But it is also home to the world’s eighth largest producer of geothermal energy.

In this special edition of Focus Japan, we look at how Japan is playing a key role in helping Kenya to reach its energy goals.

USA, California: A Problem With Too Much Sunshine in the Golden State

What Will California Do With Too Much Solar? (KQED)

On March 27, solar farms had to shut down because they were producing more electricity than Californians needed.

It’s becoming a growing concern for those running the grid at the California Independent System Operator (CAISO). At their Folsom headquarters, a team continually manages the power supply for most of the state, keeping the lights on for some 30 million people.

“It’s constantly solving a constant problem, meaning you’re always trying to balance,” says Nancy Traweek, who directs system operations for the grid.

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New Zealand: Top Energy Given Go Ahead for 50 MW Ngawha Geothermal Plant Expansion

Power station consents granted (News Release)

Expansion of Top Energy's geothermal power generation at Ngawha has been given the go ahead following the withdrawal of challenges to the Environment Court

Ngawha Geothermal Plant  (Courtesy Top Energy)

Top Energy’s Chief Executive Russell Shaw said concerns raised by Parahirahi C1 Trust, the kaitiaki of the geothermal field and pools at Ngawha, have been addressed and a joint Consent Order was filed with the Environment Court.

“This meant that there was no further opposition to the plans and the resource consents for the expansion of the power station were granted.”

The Trust objected when Commissioners in September 2015 granted an extension of consents for Top Energy’s existing 25 MW operation and approved new consents for a further 50 MW of generation which will be built in two stages.

Parahirahi C1 Trust Chair, Dr Te Tuhi Robust described the agreement with Top Energy as an excellent outcome which provides more gains around technical issues within the consent.

“There is nothing within the agreement that sits at odds with the law or cultural integrity for us. We believe it reflects a willingness and commitment from Top Energy to work with our community and people.

The first of the new 25 MW power stations could be producing power by 2020 which coincides with the closure of the Genesis Energy coal generation plants at Huntly.

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Philippines: Fire Spares Mt. Apo Geothermal Plants

Fire spares Mt. Apo geothermal plants — EDC (The Standard)

Energy Development Corp. said Tuesday its operations of Mt. Apo geothermal plants are not affected by the fire in Mt. Apo in North Cotabato.

EDC informed the Philippine Stock Exchange the fire was approximately seven kilometers from the Mt. Apo geothermal’s perimeter.

“This is the third forest fire on Mt. Apo in 20 years and we are keenly aware of the fire risks at Mt. Apo when there is drought. Our forest protection rangers have the skills, equipment and training for this type of event,” business unit head James Villaroman said. 

The fire on the Davao del Sur side continues to rage and is headed away from EDC’s facilities. EDC operates the 106-MW Mindanao geothermal production field.

“EDC is closely monitoring the fire. Its emergency response team and fire fighting systems are in place and ready to take action in cooperation with local emergency services if it becomes necessary,” the company said.

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Science & Technology: Fly Around Your Data in 3D

Visualizing Cross-Sectional Data in a Real-World Context (EOS)

Combining the capabilities of an open-source drawing tool with Google Earth maps allows researchers to visualize real-world cross-sectional data in three dimensions.

If you could fly around your research results in three dimensions, wouldn’t you like to do it? Visualizing research results properly during scientific presentations already does half the job of informing the public on the geographic framework of your research. Many scientists use Google Earth™ mapping service (V7.1.2.2041) because it’s a great interactive mapping tool for assigning geographic coordinates to individual data points, localizing a research area, and draping maps of results over Earth’s surface for displaying the results in three dimensions. Yet scientists often do not fully explore the Google Earth™ platform.

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Education: GRC Scholarship Application Deadline is May 6

2016 Geothermal Resources Council Scholarships

Total of $15,000 in educational awards to be given to six students in the global geothermal energy community

The 2015 GRC Scholarship Winners

The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC), a non-profit educational association dedicated to the promotion of geothermal energy and associated technologies around the world, is pleased to announce the availability of the 2016 GRC Scholarship Awards.

To qualify for one of these awards a student must be a GRC member (student memberships are only $5 per year) as well as be a student in an accredited academic institution. Selection of recipients will be based upon a variety of factors, including the individual’s academic record, student activities, geothermal industry experience, and career goals.

The following awards are available:

• Two (2) GRC Undergraduate Scholarship Awards of $1,500 – to be eligible for one of these awards, the candidate must be a third or fourth year undergraduate majoring in engineering or geosciences at the time of the award (Fall 2016). 
• Three (3) GRC Graduate Scholarship Awards of $2,500 – to be eligible for one of these awards, the candidate must be enrolled in a graduate-level program in engineering or geosciences at the time of the award (Fall 2016). 
• One (1) Student Geothermal Project Award of $4,500 – selection of recipient will be based primarily upon the creation and description of a geothermal-focused project, though other factors such as the individual’s academic record, student activities, geothermal industry experience, and career goals will factor into the determination as well. The project can represent a variety of academic subjects, including, but not limited to, geosciences, engineering, and economics. The primary requirement is that the project be focused on some aspect of geothermal power production, geothermal direct use applications or geothermal heat pumps. 

Applications must be received by May 6, 2016 to be considered. Successful recipients will be notified by June 10, 2016.

For application instructions and other details see the announcement on the GRC website at: www.geothermal.org/students.html

Please direct questions regarding the scholarship awards to: Brian Schmidt, bschmidt@geothermal.org or 530-758-2360, ext. 107

USA, Nevada: Geothermal, Hydropower and Biomass Join Forces for GEA Summit

Baseload Renewable Energy Summit (GEA)

7-8 June, Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, Nevada

The Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) is holding its fifth annual National Geothermal Summit early this summer, but with a twist. This year, the leading forum for western state policy discussions will team up with the National Hydropower Association (NHA) and the Biomass Power Association (BPA) to create a new spin on the annual event.

The Baseload Renewable Energy Summit will focus on voicing key issues faced by the geothermal industry to both state and federal policy makers. In parallel to this, industry experts in hydropower and biomass will join panel discussions to shed light on the critical importance of base-load, renewable energy sources for grid reliability, reducing carbon dioxide emissions, and meeting rising energy demand.

Click here for more information or to register.

USA: Geological Society of America Special Paper on Geothermal Energy Available Online

Geothermal Energy: An Important Resource - GSA Special Papers 519, 2016

Nationally and globally, geothermal energy is a crucial resource. Included in this Geological Society of America (GSA) Special Paper are important complementary investigations from geothermal heat pumps to enhanced geothermal systems.

• Preface        Extract         Full Text         Full Text (PDF) 
• Utility of geological and pedological models in the design of geothermal heat pump systems
  Abstract         Full Text (PDF)
• The characterization of flooded abandoned mines in Ohio as a low-temperature geothermal resource        Abstract         Full Text (PDF)
• Thermogeologic performance of a large-scale, district geoexchange system in southeast Pennsylvania        Abstract         Full Text (PDF)
• Petrographic and hydrogeologic investigations for a district-scale ground-coupled heat pump—Ball State University, Indiana        Abstract         Full Text (PDF)
• Evaluation of a discrete-depth heat dissipation test for thermal characterization of the subsurface        Abstract         Full Text (PDF)
• Physical modeling of coupled heat transfer and water flow in soil-borehole thermal energy storage systems in the vadose zone        Abstract         Full Text (PDF)
• Thermal conductivity, thermal gradient, and heat-flow estimations for the Smackover Formation, southwest Arkansas        Abstract         Full Text (PDF)
• Stochastic exploration and the geologic context of enhanced geothermal system viability on the Snake River Plain, Idaho        Abstract         Full Text (PDF)

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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.

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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Europe: Geothermal News from EGEC

The EGEC Newsletter March 2016 - The Voice of Geothermal in Europe

The March issue of the EGEC Newsletter is now available. Click here to download it.

In this issue:

Editorial

• The future for the Energiewende
• European Technology and Innovation Platform (ETIP) on Deep Geothermal.
• Book your place at the European Geothermal Congress 2016

Policy

• European Commission consults on new national plans for climate and energy post-2020
• EGEC joins business’ call for more ambitious energy and climate policy

News

• Drilling begins at Gross-Gerau, Germany
• Local Government in Cornwall, UK, promises extra funding for geothermal Project
• Public consultation on use of deep geothermal in Clackmannanshire, UK.
• Finland could be heated entirely with Geothermal, says Geological survey
• France: Call for heat network projects in Alsace Champagne-Ardennes Lorraine for funding under Fonds Chaleur renouvelable 2016
• Geothermal energy is one of the least incentivised renewable sources in Italy. According to Gestore Servici Energetici (GSE)
• Chevron may be considering selling geothermal assets in Asia
• Philippines: Additional 60MW capacity to be added to Southern Negros Geothermal Project
• Indonesia: 110 MW Ulubelu expansion almost complete
• Nicaragua: The San Jacinto-Tizate Power Plant generated 433,988 MWh (net) in 2015
• Nevis (Caribbean): Turboden chosen as supplier and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) for 9MW Nevis project

Download the EGEC Newsletter.......

Canada: City to Use Geothermal Heat in Storm Drains to Keep Roads Free of Snow

City to access geothermal heat to keep winter roads clear (News Release)

In a recent closed meeting Fort St John (British Columbia) City Council approved the use of a drilling rig on the old hospital site on 100th Avenue to access geothermal heat. The heat accessed from this site will be piped throughout the city using storm drains and will be sufficiently warm enough to melt snow from the roads even on the coldest winter days. The rig is already set up and drilling will commence early next week.

City storm drains run underneath all city roads so they are the perfect vehicle to pump the heat through to warm the roads and melt the snow. This is the first time in North America a city has tapped into this heat source for road maintenance. (Actually, this is already being done in other North American cities such as Boise, Idaho and Klamath Falls, Oregon).

“People in our region are used to seeing drilling rigs but to have one right downtown is a bit unusual so we will be adding some flowering shrubs around the rig and at Christmas we will put lights on it. We can really make that area look nice,” stated Grounds Manager Chris Murphy.

The City looks forward to snow free roads next winter and wishes all citizens a very happy April Fool’s Day.

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India: Video of Talk on Geothermal Development on the Sub-Continent

Geothermal development -Historical perspective and India's contribution by Ritesh Arya

Dr Ritesh Arya speaking on Geothermal development - Historical perspective and India's contribution at the 2nd International conference organised by Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University, Gandhinagar in Gujrat 2016.

Indonesia: 11 Geothermal Working Areas Offered to State Owned Enterprises

Govt Assigns 11 Geothermal Work Areas to SOEs (Tempo.co)

(Courtesy CIA.gov)

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources will assign state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to manage 11 geothermal working areas this year. The goal is to reach the 16-percent geothermal energy mix in the acceleration of the 35,000 MW power plan project until 2019.

"A number of SOEs have submitted their applications," Saefulhak Yunus, director of geothermal energy, told Tempo yesterday.

According to Yunus, Pertamina is proposing to work on five geothermal areas, PLN applies for four work areas, while PT Geo Dipa Energi (Persero) asks for two. Tafif Azimudin, corporate secretary Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE), confirmed that the company has asked to manage five geothermal work areas.

As of today, the Energy Ministry has not revealed which 11 geothermal working will be assigned to the three SOEs. The Ministry is still reviewing their proposals; verifying them with the statuses of the 11 geothermal areas, which means that the number of areas to be assigned is subject to change.

The government's plan to assign SOEs to manage the 11 geothermal working areas is part of the Energy Ministry's target to offer 27 geothermal areas with a total capacity of 1,535 MW until 2017. The paperwork for the management of the other 16 work areas is being prepared. Of the 27 work areas offered, five have been offered to the public.

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USA: New Technology Helps Geothermal Energy Progress

New Plant Design Options Expand Geothermal Power Operations (POWER magazine)

Sunset at Alaşehir 1, by Tim Dunford, POWER Engineers, Inc., Hailey, Idaho, USA.
Steam venting at dusk at Zorlu Energy's Alaşehir geothermal power plant in Turkey. Taken July 16, 2015.

Geothermal energy may not be a large contributor to the U.S. power mix—it provided less than 0.5% of total U.S. generation in 2015—but it is a reliable and dispatchable renewable energy source that plays well with others. And while the concept is old, new technology is making it easier for grid operators to utilize this important resource.

Geothermal technology, though over a century old, is constantly changing. Developments in mapping techniques have improved exploratory practices. Plant adaptations, such as hybrid technologies and the introduction of fully flexible mode, have enhanced operations. And cutting-edge research continues around the globe, with goals of improving plant efficiency and performance. With geothermal technology—arguably more so than with other generating technologies—plant design determines one’s operating options, so we begin with some of the latest plant design innovations.

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San Serriffe: 500 MW Geothermal Resource Found in Indian Ocean

Huge Geothermal Field Discovered on Remote Island in Indian Ocean (Mutley Fool)

Scientists have reported a very large geothermal field on a remote island in the Indian Ocean. The discovery was made in the republic of San Serriffe, located on the seismically active mid-indian ocean ridge near the Seychelle Islands. The potential capacity of the renewable resource has been estimated as upwards of 500 MWe.

San Serriffe comprises two islands, Upper Caisse and Lower Caisse, shaped curiously like a semi-colon. Since it's first exposure to the outside world on April 1, 1977, the island has struggled for acceptance but now with the discovery of geothermal energy it has plans to become a powerhouse for the southern Indian Ocean.

The islands plan to use the geothermal energy for domestic and industrial use but also to export electricity by undersea cable to the Seychelles to help run the huge tourist resorts on the paradise island.

More information......