Energía Geotérmica (PRH CeMIEGeo Geotermia)
Video from Centro Mexicano de Innovación en Energía Geotérmica (CeMIEGeo)
El calor que está en el interior de la tierra puede ser aprovechado, transformándose en energía eléctrica sin dañar el ambiente.
(Video 4:10 Minutes)
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
USA, Nevada: Fallon FORGE Project Gets Political Support
Nevada Legislators Support Fallon Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy
Entire #Nevada delegation asks @SecretaryPerry to site DOE's one-of-a-kind #geothermal research laboratory in Churchill Co, NV. Thank you! pic.twitter.com/EgLd4rXr9t— Paul Thomsen (@PaulThomsen1) August 8, 2017
Commonwealth of Dominica: More Funds Made available for Geothermal Energy Development
Finance Minister Says Funds for Geothermal Plant Already Secured (GIS Dominica)
Dominica’s geothermal project, part of the Government’s plan to provide a more reliable and affordable source of energy to Dominicans, has received further funding to ensure completion.
The Hon. Minister for Finance, Prime Minister, Dr Roosevelt Skerrit, while presenting the 2017/2018 National Budget on July 27th, revealed that these funds have been made available by the Government as well as other benefactors.
Prime Minister Skerrit noted that the environmental and social impact assessment for the 7 MW geothermal project is ongoing in the Roseau valley. The designs for the plant are progressing and should be completed by the third quarter of 2017.
Hon Skerrit informed that negotiations are ongoing with DOMLEC to finalize the terms of the power purchase agreement between the DGDC and DOMLEC. Negotiations are expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
Read More.........
The Hon. Minister for Finance, Prime Minister, Dr Roosevelt Skerrit, while presenting the 2017/2018 National Budget on July 27th, revealed that these funds have been made available by the Government as well as other benefactors.
Prime Minister Skerrit noted that the environmental and social impact assessment for the 7 MW geothermal project is ongoing in the Roseau valley. The designs for the plant are progressing and should be completed by the third quarter of 2017.
Hon Skerrit informed that negotiations are ongoing with DOMLEC to finalize the terms of the power purchase agreement between the DGDC and DOMLEC. Negotiations are expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
Read More.........
Greece: Wide Interest in Developing Geothermal Power Plants
PPC Renewables submits 7 expressions of interest for geothermal power plants in Greece (News Release)
PPC Renewables has completed the submission of the Phase A of the selection process of a strategic partners for electricity generation from geothermal power plants.
Seven Expressions of Interest were submitted, indicating the strong interest of the international and local market to partner with PPC Renewables S.A (PPCR) in this unique project for Greece, one of the few high-potential untapped Geothermal Power Plants projects in Europe.
The interested parties that submitted Expression of Interest are:
PPCR will shortly announce the names of the interested parties who meet the prequalification criteria and qualify for the Phase B of the Selection Process. During Phase B, eligible partners will be granted access to the terms and conditions of the Selection Process as well as available information about the Geothermal Power Plants Project and the Transaction.
Read More........
Seven Expressions of Interest were submitted, indicating the strong interest of the international and local market to partner with PPC Renewables S.A (PPCR) in this unique project for Greece, one of the few high-potential untapped Geothermal Power Plants projects in Europe.
The interested parties that submitted Expression of Interest are:
- Storengy
- KS Orka
- Enel Green Power Hellas
- Terna Energy - Terna Aioliki Xerovouniuo
- Helector S.A.
- Zorlu Energy - Turboden
- Maren Maras Elektrik Üretim San. Ve Tic. A.S.
PPCR will shortly announce the names of the interested parties who meet the prequalification criteria and qualify for the Phase B of the Selection Process. During Phase B, eligible partners will be granted access to the terms and conditions of the Selection Process as well as available information about the Geothermal Power Plants Project and the Transaction.
Read More........
Monday, August 7, 2017
USA, Colorado: Two Day Workshop on Gas/Oil/Renewable Energy Collaboration
Nexus of Oil & Gas and Renewables in the Energy Future
Sept 27-28, 2017 - National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado, USA
A two-day workshop hosted by International Energy Agency (IEA) Gas & Oil Technologies (GOT) Collaboration Programme, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Joint Institute for Strategic Energy Analysis, and the Colorado School of Mines.
Preliminary Program (PDF)........ Registration.........
More Information........
Sept 27-28, 2017 - National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado, USA
Preliminary Program (PDF)........ Registration.........
More Information........
USA, Nevada: Senator Promotes Fallon Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy
Heller to Energy: Pick Nevada for Geothermal Laboratory (News Release)
U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) today urged Department of Energy Secretary Rick Perry to strongly consider the Fallon Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE) project in the department’s ongoing facility competition.
Last year, the Department of Energy announced the Fallon, Nevada project was one of two candidates being considered by the government to establish a new headquarters for geothermal energy research. Given Nevada’s role as a leader in renewable energy technologies combined with the state’s geothermal makeup, Nevada is uniquely situated for this project. The Department of Energy is expected to make a final decision early next year between the Fallon, Nevada project and another project located in Utah.
In a letter sent to Secretary Perry, signed by all members of the Nevada congressional delegation, the letter argued Nevada is “perfectly suited to host this one-of-a-kind research laboratory.”
Read More........
Last year, the Department of Energy announced the Fallon, Nevada project was one of two candidates being considered by the government to establish a new headquarters for geothermal energy research. Given Nevada’s role as a leader in renewable energy technologies combined with the state’s geothermal makeup, Nevada is uniquely situated for this project. The Department of Energy is expected to make a final decision early next year between the Fallon, Nevada project and another project located in Utah.
In a letter sent to Secretary Perry, signed by all members of the Nevada congressional delegation, the letter argued Nevada is “perfectly suited to host this one-of-a-kind research laboratory.”
Read More........
China: Greatest Potential for Geothermal Progress is Via Low-Temperature Sources
Fire & Ice: Unlikely Cooperation Between Iceland and China (New Security Beat)
China has great potential for geothermal energy development, as it is home to an estimated one-sixth of the world’s geothermal resources. But, as of 2015, the nation had only produced a mere 15 percent of Iceland’s annual geothermal power output.
Instead of Iceland’s high-temperature geothermal veins, China’s resources are largely low-temperature, falling below 300°F. This temperature range is better suited to direct-use applications, such as direct heating, rather than electricity generation. Only one high-temperature region has been discovered: the Himalayan geothermal zone, so China has only a handful of geothermal electricity plants, primarily supported by the Yangbajing Geothermal Field in Tibet.
The greatest potential for Chinese geothermal progress is via low-temperature sources, primarily for the direct heating applications Iceland-based Arctic Green Energy Corporation (AGEC) is pioneering.
Read More.........
China has great potential for geothermal energy development, as it is home to an estimated one-sixth of the world’s geothermal resources. But, as of 2015, the nation had only produced a mere 15 percent of Iceland’s annual geothermal power output.
Instead of Iceland’s high-temperature geothermal veins, China’s resources are largely low-temperature, falling below 300°F. This temperature range is better suited to direct-use applications, such as direct heating, rather than electricity generation. Only one high-temperature region has been discovered: the Himalayan geothermal zone, so China has only a handful of geothermal electricity plants, primarily supported by the Yangbajing Geothermal Field in Tibet.
The greatest potential for Chinese geothermal progress is via low-temperature sources, primarily for the direct heating applications Iceland-based Arctic Green Energy Corporation (AGEC) is pioneering.
Read More.........
GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+ - Opening Session Speakers at Geothermal Energy Event
Governor Gary Herbert and Mayor Jackie Biskupski to Address Utah Geothermal Energy Event
Two keynote speakers have been confirmed for the Opening Session of the geothermal energy event of the year in Salt Lake City.
Governor Gary Herbert and Mayor Jackie Biskupski will address attendees at the Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) Annual Meeting and Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) GeoExpo+ at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah on Monday, October 2.
Governor Gary Richard Herbert took the oath of office on August 11, 2009.
Prior to becoming the state's chief executive, Governor Herbert served as lieutenant governor for five years. He is the past chair of the Western Governors Association and National Governors Association.
He also heads the annual Governor's Utah Energy Development Summit.
Mayor Jackie Biskupski was elected as Salt Lake City’s 35th mayor in 2015 and was sworn in on January 4th, 2016.
In July 2016, Mayor Biskupski launched Salt Lake City’s initiative to transition the community to 100% renewable energy sources by 2032 and to reduce carbon emissions citywide by 80% by 2040.
More Information on the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+........
Two keynote speakers have been confirmed for the Opening Session of the geothermal energy event of the year in Salt Lake City.
Governor Gary Herbert and Mayor Jackie Biskupski will address attendees at the Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) Annual Meeting and Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) GeoExpo+ at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah on Monday, October 2.
Prior to becoming the state's chief executive, Governor Herbert served as lieutenant governor for five years. He is the past chair of the Western Governors Association and National Governors Association.
He also heads the annual Governor's Utah Energy Development Summit.
In July 2016, Mayor Biskupski launched Salt Lake City’s initiative to transition the community to 100% renewable energy sources by 2032 and to reduce carbon emissions citywide by 80% by 2040.
More Information on the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+........
Finance: Movement Away from “Feed-in Tariffs” to Subsidize Renewable Energy Projects.
The Renewable Energy Auction Revolution (Energy Institute Blog)
There’s a revolution happening in the world of renewable energy policy. At last count, 48 countries had adopted auction-based approaches to subsidizing renewables, with an additional 27 countries seriously considering the idea.
The idea is simple (in theory). Set a target level of investment in renewable energy capacity, and then allocate these contracts to the lowest bidders. This idea is also somewhat polarizing because it marks a move away from “feed-in tariffs” which have been used in many countries, for many years, to subsidize renewable energy projects.
Feed-in tariffs (FiTs) have traditionally been set well above the prevailing electricity price. The concern among some renewable energy advocates is that determining tariffs via competitive auction will drive renewable energy subsidies down…or eliminate them entirely.
Read More........
(Thanks to GRC Member Marcelo Lippmann, Staff Scientist (retired) at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory for the submission.)
There’s a revolution happening in the world of renewable energy policy. At last count, 48 countries had adopted auction-based approaches to subsidizing renewables, with an additional 27 countries seriously considering the idea.
The idea is simple (in theory). Set a target level of investment in renewable energy capacity, and then allocate these contracts to the lowest bidders. This idea is also somewhat polarizing because it marks a move away from “feed-in tariffs” which have been used in many countries, for many years, to subsidize renewable energy projects.
Feed-in tariffs (FiTs) have traditionally been set well above the prevailing electricity price. The concern among some renewable energy advocates is that determining tariffs via competitive auction will drive renewable energy subsidies down…or eliminate them entirely.
Read More........
(Thanks to GRC Member Marcelo Lippmann, Staff Scientist (retired) at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory for the submission.)
Science & Technology: Heavy Oil Extraction Technology Can be Applied to Geothermal Energy
Heavy-Oil Technology May Be a Perfect Fit for Geothermal Power (Journal of Petroleum Technology)
While the economic future of greenfield heavy-oil projects is in serious doubt these days, one prominent applied research group in Canada said that some of the technologies involved with heavy oil have the potential to be used around the world.
The catch is that the technologies—specifically those involved in steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD)—would be primarily used not to produce oil, but geothermal power.
“We believe that Alberta has been doing geothermal backwards for 30 years,” said Brian Wagg, director of business development at Edmonton-based C-FER Technologies, who explained how SAGD centers on pushing large volumes of steam into the ground via injection well where it heats viscous oil to a point at which it flows freely into a producing well.
The concept that C-FER is promoting is termed an enhanced geothermal system and involves sending cool water down an injector well to become heated by moving through a non-hydrocarbon-bearing rock formation.
The geologically heated water is then pumped back to surface from a producing well at temperatures between 300°F and 390°F (150°C–200°C). At such temperatures, the water can be run through a heat exchanger to flash-evaporate a common form of butane, the expanding vapors of which would spin a turbine to generate electricity.
Read More.........
C-FER Technologies will be exhibiting at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+ from October 1-4 in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
 |
| Steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) technology (Courtesy University of Calgary) |
The catch is that the technologies—specifically those involved in steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD)—would be primarily used not to produce oil, but geothermal power.
“We believe that Alberta has been doing geothermal backwards for 30 years,” said Brian Wagg, director of business development at Edmonton-based C-FER Technologies, who explained how SAGD centers on pushing large volumes of steam into the ground via injection well where it heats viscous oil to a point at which it flows freely into a producing well.
The concept that C-FER is promoting is termed an enhanced geothermal system and involves sending cool water down an injector well to become heated by moving through a non-hydrocarbon-bearing rock formation.
The geologically heated water is then pumped back to surface from a producing well at temperatures between 300°F and 390°F (150°C–200°C). At such temperatures, the water can be run through a heat exchanger to flash-evaporate a common form of butane, the expanding vapors of which would spin a turbine to generate electricity.
Read More.........
C-FER Technologies will be exhibiting at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+ from October 1-4 in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
USA, California: Ormat to Run Flow and Injection Test at Mammoth Geothermal Field
Ormat approved for geothermal test (Sierra Wave)
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Bishop Field Office, in coordination with the Inyo National Forest Mammoth Lakes Ranger District, has approved a proposal by Ormat Nevada Inc. to conduct a 30-day flow and injection test of two existing geothermal wells, expected to begin August 21, near the town of Mammoth Lakes, California.
In preparation for the test, Ormat has begun staging equipment and assembling temporary pipelines at two existing geothermal well pads, located just northwest of the Shady Rest Park. The flow and injection test will collect data from the geothermal reservoir and the groundwater aquifer.
Read More........
Ormat Technologies, Inc. will be exhibiting at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+ from October 1-4 in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
Ormat Technologies, Inc. will be exhibiting at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+ from October 1-4 in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
Saturday, August 5, 2017
Friday, August 4, 2017
Geothermal Energy News from Around the World
Global Geothermal News - Weekly Update
A round-up of this week's geothermal energy news.......
Click on the links to view the whole story and other news stories on Global Geothermal News.
A round-up of this week's geothermal energy news.......
Click on the links to view the whole story and other news stories on Global Geothermal News.
Canada: Study Shows Tremendous Potential for Geothermal Energy in Western Alberta
Whose O&G Wells Have Geothermal Potential? (EnergyNow)
All Alberta oil and gas wells as of October 31, 2016, have been assessed for their geothermal potential (through a study facilitated by CanGEA). There were more than 60,000 wells identified (out of nearly 600,000 wellbores in the province).
The wells are grouped into those with potential for Direct Heat (>60c), Industrial Heat (>90c) and Power Generation (>120c). The communities near the wells are also listed.
USA, Nevada: Ormat Looking to Expand Geothermal Energy Business through Acquisitions
Ormat Technologies turns focus to geothermal, energy storage M&A (SNL)
Ormat Technologies Inc. is exploring potential acquisitions in geothermal energy and energy storage following its $35 million acquisition of demand response and battery storage solutions provider Viridity Energy Inc. The Nevada-based renewable energy technology company is targeting acquisitions that will expand its generation capacity, CEO Isaac Angel said on an Aug. 3 earnings call.
"We are actively looking both for geothermal projects and for power plants that we can buy, enhance or operate," Angel said. "On the storage side, we're looking for companies that will add us value from technology side or projects ready to develop and we will enter with the developer and build it."
Ormat closed its acquisition of Viridity on March 15 and has added staff for storage projects on the West Coast while Viridity maintains its activity on the East Coast. The combined entity has participated in multiple requests for proposals, Angel said.
"We are not going to be in the battery side at all," he added. "We will use existing battery or future batteries that will come up. We will provide solutions to manage and build and operate."
Read More.........
"We are actively looking both for geothermal projects and for power plants that we can buy, enhance or operate," Angel said. "On the storage side, we're looking for companies that will add us value from technology side or projects ready to develop and we will enter with the developer and build it."
Ormat closed its acquisition of Viridity on March 15 and has added staff for storage projects on the West Coast while Viridity maintains its activity on the East Coast. The combined entity has participated in multiple requests for proposals, Angel said.
"We are not going to be in the battery side at all," he added. "We will use existing battery or future batteries that will come up. We will provide solutions to manage and build and operate."
Read More.........
USA, Hawaii: Geothermal Royalties Would Support Community Health and Safety Projects
Bill would expand use of geothermal fund (Hawaii Tribune Herald)
A bill that would allow Hawaii County to spend its geothermal royalties on “community health and safety projects” will be sent to the Planning Commission for review.
The County Council voted 8-0 Tuesday during the Finance Committee meeting to send it to the panel before advancing it to a vote at a regular council meeting.
The royalties go into the county’s geothermal relocation and community benefits program, established in 1998 initially to purchase homes of people who feel adversely affected by Puna Geothermal Venture, the state’s only geothermal power plant, near Pahoa. The county Planning Department manages the fund, along with a separate geothermal asset fund.
The council later changed the relocation fund to also allow the money to be spent for the benefit of Puna, such as improving roads, water infrastructure, parks, civil defense and mass transit services.
Read More........
The County Council voted 8-0 Tuesday during the Finance Committee meeting to send it to the panel before advancing it to a vote at a regular council meeting.
The royalties go into the county’s geothermal relocation and community benefits program, established in 1998 initially to purchase homes of people who feel adversely affected by Puna Geothermal Venture, the state’s only geothermal power plant, near Pahoa. The county Planning Department manages the fund, along with a separate geothermal asset fund.
The council later changed the relocation fund to also allow the money to be spent for the benefit of Puna, such as improving roads, water infrastructure, parks, civil defense and mass transit services.
Read More........
Kenya: Mombasa Now Enjoying Geothermal Energy from Olkaria
Mombasa to get reliable power with the launch of 400kv Suswa-Rabai line (News Release)
The line will evacuate up to 150 MW of geothermal power. Demand in the Coast region currently stands close to 300 MW.
The line will evacuate up to 150 MW of geothermal power. Demand in the Coast region currently stands close to 300 MW.
Kenya Power has today energized the Suswa-Isinya-Rabai line paving way for supply of cheap electricity to the Coast region and its environs.
The 400kV line which has initially been charged at 220kV will evacuate power from geothermal plants in Olkaria to the Coast region.
Majority of the Coast region has in the past relied on thermal generators linked to the national grid for electricity supply.
The new development will minimize consumption of thermal power in the region and in turn impact positively on customer bills through a reduction in the monthly fuel cost surcharge.
Thursday, August 3, 2017
Global: Submit Your Beautiful Geothermal Energy Photos
The Geothermal Resources Council 2017 Amateur Photo Contest
The deadline for submissions is August 18, 2017.
The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) would like to remind photographers of this year’s Amateur Geothermal Photo Contest. The purpose of the contest is to showcase quality photography featuring geothermal energy around the world.
The deadline for submissions is August 18, 2017.
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| Winner 2015. Drill Casings for New Geothermal Well by Cari Covell |
The winners will be announced at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+ being held in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA from October 1-4. The theme for this year’s meeting is “Geothermal Energy: The Power to Do More”.
The first place winner will receive $150, second place - $100, and third place - $75. Honorable Mention photos will receive certificates.
Photographs on any subject related to geothermal energy can be submitted such as geothermal energy production, Enhanced Geothermal systems (EGS), direct use and geothermal heat pumps. These can include photos of well testing, drilling, operation of geothermal equipment, newly developed equipment, or plant operation, construction of a geothermal plant or plant site, and geological areas or surface manifestations (holding potential for geothermal exploration or development).
More information on the GRC Amateur Photo Contest, including a submission form, can be found on the GRC website. The deadline for submissions is August 18, 2017.
Science & Technology: Influential Magazine Suggests Geothermal Could Grow Rapidly Using Existing Technology
A Solution to Our Clean Energy Problem May Lie Right Beneath Our Feet (Time Magazine)
 |
| The Reykjanes geothermal power station at the southwestern tip of Iceland on March 23, 2017. Halldor Kolbeins—AFP/Getty Images |
In some regions, including parts of the South Pacific, Latin America and even the western U.S., a tenfold increase would transform geothermal power from a bit player in the world's energy supply to a fundamental source.
Even if IDDP does not succeed, geothermal could still grow rapidly using existing technology. But a failure in Iceland — home to some of the world's leading researchers in the field — could give pause to investors considering a gamble on a new way of powering the world.
USA: Two Companies With History of Involvement in Geothermal Energy Projects Announce Merger
Jacobs to Acquire CH2M to Create Premier $15 Billion Global Solutions Provider (News Release)
Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. and CH2M Hill Companies Ltd. today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Jacobs will acquire all of the outstanding shares of CH2M in a cash and stock transaction with an enterprise value (EV) of approximately $3.27 billion, including approximately $416 million of CH2M net debt.
CH2M is a world-renowned design, engineering and program management firm, and is a leader in key infrastructure and government service sectors that Jacobs has previously targeted for growth, including water, transportation, environmental and nuclear.
Nicaragua: Possible $15 Million Financing for Geothermal Development Plan
Más financiamiento para energía geotérmica - More Financing for Geothermal Energy (Energia Limpia XXI)
El Climate Investment Fund esta estudiando la aprobación de un financiamiento de 15 millones de dólares para el Plan de Desarrollo Geotérmico de Nicaragua cuyo propósito es dar un mayor impulso a la energía renovable. Un informe de Energía Limpia XXI destaca que el proyecto fue presentado por el Gobierno de Nicaragua y el Banco Mundial para la aprobación de una asignación USD 15,0 millones en fondos (USD 7,7 millones en concepto de donación y 7,3 millones en préstamo).
(Google Translation) The Climate Investment Fund is studying the approval of $15 million financing for Nicaragua's Geothermal Development Plan whose purpose is to give greater impetus to renewable energy. A Energia Limpia XXI report notes that the project was submitted by the Government of Nicaragua and the World Bank for the approval of a USD 15.0 million allocation in funds (USD 7.7 million grant and USD 7.3 million loan).
Leer mas........... Read More........
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
(Google Translation) The Climate Investment Fund is studying the approval of $15 million financing for Nicaragua's Geothermal Development Plan whose purpose is to give greater impetus to renewable energy. A Energia Limpia XXI report notes that the project was submitted by the Government of Nicaragua and the World Bank for the approval of a USD 15.0 million allocation in funds (USD 7.7 million grant and USD 7.3 million loan).
Leer mas........... Read More........
United Kingdom: Drilling for Penzance Geothermal Pool Could Begin This Year
Work to heat Penzance's Jubilee Pool could start this year (Cornwall Live)
Drilling could start this year at Cornwall's most iconic Lido to provide all-year-round hot bathing water from hot rocks beneath the ground.
If planning permission is granted to Geothermal Energy Limited to carry out the work, Penzance's open air pool will be the first in the country to be heated with geothermal renewable energy.
The £1.4 million EU-funded project will be run by industry experts Geothermal Engineering Ltd (GEL) and the local community for the lido which has recently undergone major renovations and repairs after suffering massive damage in the infamous 2014 winter storms.
When complete, the work will allow Jubilee Pool visitors to enjoy a section of the Lido which will be heated using geothermal energy while the majority of the space will maintain its normal temperature.
Read More.......
If planning permission is granted to Geothermal Energy Limited to carry out the work, Penzance's open air pool will be the first in the country to be heated with geothermal renewable energy.
The £1.4 million EU-funded project will be run by industry experts Geothermal Engineering Ltd (GEL) and the local community for the lido which has recently undergone major renovations and repairs after suffering massive damage in the infamous 2014 winter storms.
When complete, the work will allow Jubilee Pool visitors to enjoy a section of the Lido which will be heated using geothermal energy while the majority of the space will maintain its normal temperature.
Read More.......
Indonesia: Geothermal Company Star Energy Attracts New Investment
Barito Pacific readying $700m to acquire majority stake in Star Energy (Deal Street Asia)
Indonesian petrochemical firm Barito Pacific is readying $700 million to acquire 66 per cent stake in Star Energy Group, an affiliated entity controlled by tycoon Prajogo Pangestu.
Barito Pacific president director, Agus Salim Pangestu, expects the acquisition to close by the first quarter of 2018.
BCPG, a Thai listed renewable energy firm, had secured approval to acquire 33.3 per cent stake in Star Energy. The deal was valued at up to $357.5 million, with the transaction expected to be finalised in the second quarter of this year.
Following the acquisition, BCPG will hold stakes in three geothermal power plants in Indonesia with a combined production capacity of 182 MW.
The largest plant is located in Sukabumi City in West Java with an installed capacity of 377 MW. The other two include the 227 MW geothermal power plant at Wayang Windu and the 271 MW Darajat project in Garut and Bandung, which the firm acquired from Chevron along with operations in the Philippines – including Tiwi-Makban geothermal field that is currently producing approximately 326 MW of steam.
Read More..........
Barito Pacific president director, Agus Salim Pangestu, expects the acquisition to close by the first quarter of 2018.
BCPG, a Thai listed renewable energy firm, had secured approval to acquire 33.3 per cent stake in Star Energy. The deal was valued at up to $357.5 million, with the transaction expected to be finalised in the second quarter of this year.
Following the acquisition, BCPG will hold stakes in three geothermal power plants in Indonesia with a combined production capacity of 182 MW.
The largest plant is located in Sukabumi City in West Java with an installed capacity of 377 MW. The other two include the 227 MW geothermal power plant at Wayang Windu and the 271 MW Darajat project in Garut and Bandung, which the firm acquired from Chevron along with operations in the Philippines – including Tiwi-Makban geothermal field that is currently producing approximately 326 MW of steam.
Read More..........
Iceland: Blue Lagoon Geothermal Tourist Resort Now Not for Sale
Alterra Power Announces Termination of Blue Lagoon Sales Process (News Release)
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Alterra Power Corp. announces that its subsidiary, HS Orka hf, has ended the process regarding the potential sale of HS Orka's 30% ownership interest in the Blue Lagoon tourist resort.
Alterra had previously announced that the subsidiary was considering strategic alternatives for the ownership stake, up to and including a full sale. During the sales process, several viable offers were received and HS Orka entered into an exclusivity agreement with a preferred bidder who valued the stake in excess of €90 million (multiple bids were received with valuations above €90 million).
Although Alterra was prepared to sell under this preferred offer, Alterra's partner at HS Orka, Jarðvarmi slhf, whose consent was required, decided against selling the stake at this time. HS Orka may revisit the process at a later date.
Philippines: EDC Attracts $US1.3 Billion Bid for One-Third Ownership
Macquarie, GIC in bid for Filipino power producer EDC (The Australian)
Australian company Macquarie, a global investment banking and diversified financial services group, is ramping up its renewable energy investments by joining with Singapore’s GIC - formerly known as Government of Singapore Investment Corporation - to bid for a one-third stake in a Filipino power producer.
The bank’s most powerful division, Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets, has teamed up to lodge the offer for Energy Development Corp (EDC) worth $US1.3 billion ($1.6bn).
EDC says it is The Philippines’ largest producer of geothermal energy with 1169 megawatts delivered to the country. Output is made up of geothermal, hydro and wind power, and the company is considered the second-largest geothermal firm in the world.
Macquarie said it was keen to add EDC to its renewable energy investments portfolio and add to its experience in the sector.
USA, Nevada: Ormat Reports Geothermal Electricity Generation Increased 2.4%
Ormat Technologies Reports 2017 Second Quarter Earnings (News Release)
Ormat Technologies, Inc. today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2017.
Second Quarter 2017 Highlights and Recent Developments:
Ormat Technologies, Inc. today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2017.
- Total revenues of $179.4 million, up 12.2% compared to the second quarter of 2016:
- Electricity segment revenues of $111.8 million, up 7.5% compared to the second quarter of 2016, mainly due to higher performance of our Puna plant as well as the consolidation of our Bouillante power plant in Guadeloupe;
- Electricity generation increased 2.4%, compared to the second quarter of 2017, from 1.30 million MWh to 1.33 million MWh;
- Executed a new portfolio power purchase agreement (portfolio PPA) with Southern California Public Power Authority (SCPPA), under which SCPPA will purchase 150MW of power generated by a portfolio of Ormat’s new and existing geothermal power plants beginning in the fourth quarter of 2017 at a fixed price of $75.50 per MWh; and
- ORIX acquired 22% ownership stake in Ormat and the previously reported Commercial Cooperation Agreement entered into by Ormat and ORIX is now effective.
Read More.........
Ormat Technologies, Inc. will be exhibiting at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+ from October 1-4 in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
Ormat Technologies, Inc. will be exhibiting at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+ from October 1-4 in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
Wednesday, August 2, 2017
GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+ - Event App Now Available!
Geothermal Energy Event - We've Got an App for That!
The GRC are again providing a Mobile app for the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+. It is now available to download to an iPhone, Android or Windows Smartphone, tablet or laptop computer giving event attendees better access to information and networking.
The mobile app also allows the GRC to post more information online and avoid print costs.
We strongly encourage you to download the mobile guide to enhance your experience at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+. You'll be able to plan your day with a personalized schedule and browse exhibitors, maps and general show info. You can browse all the essential information even without internet access.
After a simple download and installation the app can be personalized with your own schedule and notes on activities. When you sign-in to the app you will be able to interact with other attendees and build an on-site network. Attendees will also be able to post their own photos and comments to the app for all to see on the "activity stream".
The App is a work in progress, updates are loaded as information becomes available and your feedback is encouraged as you get familiar with it. All questions and feedback can be sent to Ian Crawford at icrawford@geothermal.org.
Download the app now!.......
The GRC are again providing a Mobile app for the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+. It is now available to download to an iPhone, Android or Windows Smartphone, tablet or laptop computer giving event attendees better access to information and networking.The mobile app also allows the GRC to post more information online and avoid print costs.
We strongly encourage you to download the mobile guide to enhance your experience at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+. You'll be able to plan your day with a personalized schedule and browse exhibitors, maps and general show info. You can browse all the essential information even without internet access.
After a simple download and installation the app can be personalized with your own schedule and notes on activities. When you sign-in to the app you will be able to interact with other attendees and build an on-site network. Attendees will also be able to post their own photos and comments to the app for all to see on the "activity stream". |
| Scan this QR Code |
Download the app now!.......
India: Video of Promising Geothermal Resource in Jammu and Kashmir
Puga- Dream Geothermal destination in India by Ritesh Arya
Dr Ritesh Arya speaks about the promising geothermal resource at Puga, in the Ladakh region of the state of Jammu and Kashmir in northern India.
(Video 2:24 Minutes)
Dr Ritesh Arya speaks about the promising geothermal resource at Puga, in the Ladakh region of the state of Jammu and Kashmir in northern India.
(Video 2:24 Minutes)
GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+: Exhibit at the Geothermal Energy Event of the Year
Exhibitors at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+
As of today, 56 Exhibitors have signed up to present their products and services at the geothermal energy event of the year.
For more information about the GEA GeoExpo+ please visit the GEA website.
Exhibitors register for the trade show..........
As of today, 56 Exhibitors have signed up to present their products and services at the geothermal energy event of the year.
| 3JTech AMSA, Inc. Boart Longyear BS&B Safety Systems, LLC C-FER Technologies Cooling Tower Depot, Inc. Dewhurst Group DOSECC Exploration Services (DES) EthosEnergy EvapTech Inc Exergy SpA Expro Fuji Electric Co., Ltd. Gardner Denver Nash Gefco Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) Geothermal Resource Group, Inc. (GRG) GeothermEx Horizon Well Logging Hudson Products Corporation Iceland Geothermal Cluster Indar Electric, S.L. International Cooling Tower USA, Inc. John M Phillips KMS Technologies Leapfrog Geothermal Mill Man Steel |
Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems Nalco Company Nevada Division of Minerals Ormat Technologies, Inc. Phoenix Geophysics Pioneer Petrotech Services, Inc. PM International Suppliers, LLC POWER Engineers, Inc. REED Electric & Field Service PowerChem Technology Quantec Geosciences, Ltd. REXA Rotork Controls Inc. Sandia National Labs Schlumberger Limited Scientific Drilling International Sinclair Well Products SPX Cooling Technologies, Inc. Thermochem, Inc. TIMET TIX-IKS TNG Energy Services Toshiba Turboden Utah FORGE Veizades & Associates, Inc. Wieland Thermal Solutions WWT International |
Exhibitors register for the trade show..........
Costa Rica: Loan Contract Signed for 55 MW Borinquen I Geothermal Project
New Geothermal Plant Will Be Built in Costa Rica (The Costa Rica News)
The Costa Rican government signed a loan contract for 240 million dollars with Japan for the construction of the new 55 MW Borinquen I geothermal plant.
Borinquen I is planned to be built in Liberia, Guanacaste, and will be the third geothermal power plant in the country, along with Miravalles and Las Pailas.
The loan contract was signed with the executive president of the Costa Rican Institute of Electricity Carlos Obregon, representatives of the International Cooperation Agency of Japan and the Ministry of Finance. The President of Costa Rica was also present during the signing.
Borinque I plant will start operating in 2023. Right now, the terrain is under topological evaluation for further construction.
USA, California: GRC Member in Effort to Commercialise Enhanced Geothermal Systems technology
Berkeley Lab to Lead Multimillion-Dollar Geothermal Energy Project
New effort aims to accelerate commercialization of enhanced geothermal systems
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Berkeley Lab scientist Tim Kneafsey demonstrates how he
places rock samples, from the Brady Geothermal Field in Nevada, into a stress
permeability apparatus, which tests how long a fracture can remain open.
(Credit: Marilyn Chung/Berkeley Lab)
|
The Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) will lead a new $9 million project aimed at removing technical barriers to commercialization of enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), a clean energy technology with the potential to power 100 million American homes.
Berkeley Lab will partner with seven other DOE national labs and six universities to develop field experiments focused on understanding and modeling rock fractures, an essential element of geothermal systems. Scientists will use the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) in South Dakota to create small-scale fracture networks in crystalline rock 1,500 meters below ground.
“We will be putting instrumentation within tens of meters of the fractures and will be able to detect fracturing at a higher resolution than what has ever been done before,” said Berkeley Lab’s Tim Kneafsey - a GRC Member - who leads the project. “The goal is to work towards increasing our understanding of fracturing and fluid flow in EGS, which could provide a significant amount of electricity as a large quantity of accessible hot rock lies untapped across the U.S.”
USA, California: Geothermal to Make Sure Grid Runs Smoothly During Solar Eclipse
Californians urged to save energy during solar eclipse (Fox News)
Californians have been asked to save energy during next month's eagerly-anticipated solar eclipse to help reduce the strain on the state's solar power resources.
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has set up the CalEclipse.org website, where Californians are urged to “do your thing for the sun,” by reducing energy usage from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. PT during the Aug. 21 solar eclipse.
The Commission notes that as the solar eclipse passes over the Pacific Northwest, it will affect solar resources providing power to California’s grid.
“We have plenty of wind, geothermal, hydro, and natural gas to make sure the grid runs smoothly during the solar eclipse, but we also have a lot of Californians who want to do their California thing and step in to help replace the sun when it takes a break,” explained CPUC President Michael Picker, in a blog post. “When we come together to do one small thing to reduce energy usage, we can have a major impact on our environment.”
Read More........
Read More........
USA, Oregon: GRC Member Shows Off Campus Geothermal Power Plant
Walden tours Oregon Tech energy resources (Herald and News)
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| U.S. Rep. Greg Walden, center, and Oregon Tech President Nagi Naganathan, right, listen to John Lund, second from left, during a tour of geothermal resources at the Klamath Falls campus on Monday. Courtesy of Oregon Tech |
As part of his tour through South Central Oregon Wednesday, U.S. Rep. Greg Walden (R-OR) toured the geothermal plant at Oregon Tech in Klamath Falls, meeting with the university’s President Nagi Naganathan for the first time since Naganathan took the post earlier this year.
John Lund, former director of the GeoHeat Center at Oregon Tech, Emeritus GRC Board Director and an expert in geothermal energy, also joined the roughly 90-minute tour as well as other personnel to explain the history of geothermal energy in the area. The university provides 2 megawatts of electricity from geothermal energy and 2 megawatts from its solar array, according to Lund.
Tuesday, August 1, 2017
Global: Calendar of Geothermal Energy Events
Geothermal Energy Calendar from the Geothermal Resources Council
Indonesia International Geothermal Convention & Exhibition 2017
2-4 August, Jakarta, Indonesia
www.iigce.com/
Clean Power for the South Pacific Conference 2017
7-11 August, Vanua Levu, Fiji
www.geothermalcities.com/en/
GEOHEAT International Geothermal Conference
5-8 September, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Russian Federation
More information and registration........
Mexico International Renewable Energy Conference (MEXIREC)
11-13 September, Mexico City, Mexico
www.ren21.net/irecs/mexirec-2017/
CAS Deep Geothermal Systems - Certificate of Advanced Studies
Module 1: Geothermics and Geophysics
11-15 September, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
www.unine.ch/cas-deegeosys
Praxisforum Geothermie
11-12 September, Munich, Germany
www.praxisforum-geothermie.bayern/en
DGK 2017 - Der Geothermiekongress 2017
12-14 September, Munich, Germany
www.geothermie.de
41st GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+
1-4 October, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
https://geothermal.org/meet-new.html
5th European Geothermal Workshop
12-13 October, Karlsruhe, Germany
www.agw.kit.edu/EGW2017.php
Geological Society of America Conference (GSA)
Session T80: Geothermal Energy
22-25 October, Seattle, Washington, USA
http://community.geosociety.org/gsa2017/home
IGC Invest Geothermal
8-10 November, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
www.investgeothermal.com/
Renewable Iran 2017 - Incorporating Iran Geothermal Expo
13-14 November, Tehran, Iran
www.greenworldconferences.com/ri2017/
2017 Geothermal Technologies Office Peer Review
13-15 November, Denver, Colorado, USA
http://doubletree.hilton.com/en/dt/groups/personalized/D/DENSNDT-USD-20171112/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG
CAS Deep Geothermal Systems - Certificate of Advanced StudiesModule 2: Geochemistry and Hydrochemistry
13-17 November, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
www.unine.ch/cas-deegeosys
NZ Geothermal Workshop
22-24 November, Rotorua, New Zealand
http://nzgeothermal.org.nz/blog/2017/03/09/2017-geothermal-workshop/
SMU Power Plays Conference (SMU Geothermal Lab)
10-11 January, 2018 , SMU Campus, Dallas, Texas, USA
www.smu.edu/Dedman/Academics/Programs/GeothermalLab/Conference
CAS Deep Geothermal Systems - Certificate of Advanced Studies
Module 3: Drilling and Logging
15-19 January, 2018, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
www.unine.ch/cas-deegeosys
2-4 August, Jakarta, Indonesia
www.iigce.com/
Clean Power for the South Pacific Conference 2017
7-11 August, Vanua Levu, Fiji
www.geothermalcities.com/en/
GEOHEAT International Geothermal Conference
5-8 September, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Russian Federation
More information and registration........
Mexico International Renewable Energy Conference (MEXIREC)
11-13 September, Mexico City, Mexico
www.ren21.net/irecs/mexirec-2017/
CAS Deep Geothermal Systems - Certificate of Advanced Studies
Module 1: Geothermics and Geophysics
11-15 September, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
www.unine.ch/cas-deegeosys
Praxisforum Geothermie
11-12 September, Munich, Germany
www.praxisforum-geothermie.bayern/en
DGK 2017 - Der Geothermiekongress 2017
12-14 September, Munich, Germany
www.geothermie.de
41st GRC Annual Meeting & GEA GeoExpo+
1-4 October, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
https://geothermal.org/meet-new.html
5th European Geothermal Workshop
12-13 October, Karlsruhe, Germany
www.agw.kit.edu/EGW2017.php
Geological Society of America Conference (GSA)
Session T80: Geothermal Energy
22-25 October, Seattle, Washington, USA
http://community.geosociety.org/gsa2017/home
IGC Invest Geothermal
8-10 November, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
www.investgeothermal.com/
Renewable Iran 2017 - Incorporating Iran Geothermal Expo
13-14 November, Tehran, Iran
www.greenworldconferences.com/ri2017/
2017 Geothermal Technologies Office Peer Review
13-15 November, Denver, Colorado, USA
http://doubletree.hilton.com/en/dt/groups/personalized/D/DENSNDT-USD-20171112/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG
CAS Deep Geothermal Systems - Certificate of Advanced StudiesModule 2: Geochemistry and Hydrochemistry
13-17 November, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
www.unine.ch/cas-deegeosys
NZ Geothermal Workshop
22-24 November, Rotorua, New Zealand
http://nzgeothermal.org.nz/blog/2017/03/09/2017-geothermal-workshop/
SMU Power Plays Conference (SMU Geothermal Lab)
10-11 January, 2018 , SMU Campus, Dallas, Texas, USA
www.smu.edu/Dedman/Academics/Programs/GeothermalLab/Conference
CAS Deep Geothermal Systems - Certificate of Advanced Studies
Module 3: Drilling and Logging
15-19 January, 2018, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
www.unine.ch/cas-deegeosys
Stanford Geothermal Workshop
12-14 February 2018, Stanford, California, USA
https://pangea.stanford.edu/researchgroups/geothermal/stanford-geothermal-workshop
GeoTHERM – Expo & Congress
1-2 March, 2018, Offenburg, Germany
www.geotherm-germany.com/
CAS Deep Geothermal Systems - Certificate of Advanced Studies
Module 4: Reservoir Evaluation and Production
12-16 March, 2018, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
www.unine.ch/cas-deegeosys
12-14 February 2018, Stanford, California, USA
https://pangea.stanford.edu/researchgroups/geothermal/stanford-geothermal-workshop
GeoTHERM – Expo & Congress
1-2 March, 2018, Offenburg, Germany
www.geotherm-germany.com/
CAS Deep Geothermal Systems - Certificate of Advanced Studies
Module 4: Reservoir Evaluation and Production
12-16 March, 2018, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
www.unine.ch/cas-deegeosys
USA, California: 43rd Anniversary of the Stanford Geothermal Workshop
Stanford Geothermal Workshop
February 12-14, 2018, Stanford, California
The goals of the conference are to bring together engineers, scientists and managers involved in geothermal reservoir studies and developments; provide a forum for the exchange of ideas on the exploration, development and use of geothermal resources; and to enable prompt and open reporting of progress. We strongly encourage all scientists and engineers involved in geothermal reservoir technology to attend the workshop.
Topics: Papers will be presented on recent research relating to geothermal reservoirs including:
February 12-14, 2018, Stanford, California
The goals of the conference are to bring together engineers, scientists and managers involved in geothermal reservoir studies and developments; provide a forum for the exchange of ideas on the exploration, development and use of geothermal resources; and to enable prompt and open reporting of progress. We strongly encourage all scientists and engineers involved in geothermal reservoir technology to attend the workshop.
Topics: Papers will be presented on recent research relating to geothermal reservoirs including:
- Case Studies: reservoir response to production, effects of injection, scaling characteristics
- Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS): current and future activities
- Engineering Techniques: reservoir simulation, empirical methods, well tests, tracers
- Field Management: strategies for exploitation, injection, scale inhibition
- Exploration: geophysics, geochemistry, geology, heat flow studies, outflows
- Drilling and Well Bore Flows: well stimulation, bore flow modeling, hydro-fracturing, scaling
- Low Enthalpy Systems: applications of heat pumps, hot dry rock technology
- Geosciences: application of geophysics, geochemistry, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.
USA, Washington: Geothermal Energy Session at GSA Conference
Geological Society of America Conference (GSA)
October 22-25, Seattle, Washington
Sesion T80. Geothermal Energy
Corina Forson, Dave Norman
Washington Division of Geology and Earth Resources; GSA Environmental and Engineering Geology Division; GSA Structural Geology and Tectonics Division
This session highlights recent geothermal exploration and development projects. Share the innovative techniques that help us find and harness geothermal resources, generating energy when the wind doesn't blow and the sun doesn't shine.
Sesion T80. Geothermal Energy
Corina Forson, Dave Norman
Washington Division of Geology and Earth Resources; GSA Environmental and Engineering Geology Division; GSA Structural Geology and Tectonics Division
This session highlights recent geothermal exploration and development projects. Share the innovative techniques that help us find and harness geothermal resources, generating energy when the wind doesn't blow and the sun doesn't shine.
USA, Colorado: Registration Now Open for Geothermal Technologies Office Peer Review
2017 Geothermal Technologies Office Peer Review (GTO)
Monday, November 13 – Wednesday, November 15, 2017
DoubleTree by Hilton, Stapleton North in Denver, Colorado
The Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO) Peer Review offers geothermal stakeholders an opportunity to learn about the projects funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) across a wide spectrum of technical complexity and funding magnitude—from research and development, to demonstration and analysis. The event also opens a dialogue with respected researchers in geophysics, geochemistry, modeling, tools, and more.
Regularly, GTO conducts this rigorous review by independent, qualified peers to assess key achievements in geothermal development and to meet strategic DOE guidelines. Each project represents a growing technology sector in Enhanced Geothermal Systems, Conventional Hydrothermal, Low-Temperature and Co-Produced Resources, and Systems Analysis.
More Information and Registration........
Monday, November 13 – Wednesday, November 15, 2017
DoubleTree by Hilton, Stapleton North in Denver, Colorado
The Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO) Peer Review offers geothermal stakeholders an opportunity to learn about the projects funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) across a wide spectrum of technical complexity and funding magnitude—from research and development, to demonstration and analysis. The event also opens a dialogue with respected researchers in geophysics, geochemistry, modeling, tools, and more.
Regularly, GTO conducts this rigorous review by independent, qualified peers to assess key achievements in geothermal development and to meet strategic DOE guidelines. Each project represents a growing technology sector in Enhanced Geothermal Systems, Conventional Hydrothermal, Low-Temperature and Co-Produced Resources, and Systems Analysis.
More Information and Registration........
USA, Louisiana: Geothermal Energy Related Call for Papers at AGU Fall Meeting
Call for Papers - Biogeochemical and Microbial Dynamics of Shale Formations and Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids
American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting, New Orleans, Louisiana
December 11-15, 2017
Abstract Deadline: August 2, 2017
Unconventional production using hydraulic fracturing has transformed the oil and gas industry, becoming a critical part of our energy portfolio. Although this revolution is advancing worldwide, little is understood about the biogeochemical interactions and alterations taking place among reservoir rocks and fracture networks, formation waters, frac fluids, and the microbial communities within each of these systems. Lack of such knowledge may potentiate inefficiencies in extraction, produced water treatment, and biocide application. We invite fundamental and applied research from field, experiment, and theory regarding biogeochemical, hydrologic, and geomechanical processes. Areas of interest include:
December 11-15, 2017
Abstract Deadline: August 2, 2017
Unconventional production using hydraulic fracturing has transformed the oil and gas industry, becoming a critical part of our energy portfolio. Although this revolution is advancing worldwide, little is understood about the biogeochemical interactions and alterations taking place among reservoir rocks and fracture networks, formation waters, frac fluids, and the microbial communities within each of these systems. Lack of such knowledge may potentiate inefficiencies in extraction, produced water treatment, and biocide application. We invite fundamental and applied research from field, experiment, and theory regarding biogeochemical, hydrologic, and geomechanical processes. Areas of interest include:
- Organic-inorganic-microbial interactions among reservoir rocks, formation waters, and frac fluids;
- Microbiology and biogeochemistry of shale formations and deep subsurface waters;
- Mineral transformations and microbial metabolism of geological material;
- Biogenic gas production;
- Geochemistry and microbiology of frac fluids and produced waters;
- Fracture generation and propagation;
- Coupling between engineered micro-fracture networks and induced geochemical processes;
- Leakage and environmental impacts.
United Kingdom: 95% of Funds Raised for United Downs Deep Geothermal Power Project
UK geothermal power project raising crowdfunding money (Renewables Now)
A campaign is underway on crowdfunding platform Abundance to raise funds for a geothermal power project in Cornwall that is said to be the first of its kind in the UK.
The GBP-18-million (USD 23.5m/EUR 20.2m) United Downs Deep Geothermal Power project is led by Geothermal Engineering Ltd. It has secured GBP 10.6 million of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and a GBP-2.4-million loan from Cornwall Council. The remaining GBP 5 million will come from the private sector.
An 18-month secured construction bond has been launched on Abundance with a minimum investment target of GBP 3.8 million. The platform's website shows GBP 4.2 million have been raised so far. Over the 18-month period a production well and an injection well will be drilled and tested before construction starts on the power plant above ground, Abundance says.
United Kingdom: MSc in Geothermal Engineering at Cranfield University Led by GRC Member
Geothermal Engineering MSc launched (Cranfield University)
A unique Geothermal Engineering MSc, designed to meet the growing demand for specialists capable of ensuring this abundant renewable energy source is turned into a constant and independent supply, will start at Cranfield University in October 2017.
The MSc equips students with the ability to successfully implement geothermal energy projects, helping lower the dependency on energy imports, therefore developing a broader base in the future energy mix.
The course is led by GRC Member Professor Gioia Falcone, Cranfield’s Head of Centre for Oil and Gas Engineering, and an expert in geothermal technology. It will cover renewable energy technology fundamentals, heat transfer, management for technology, and power generation systems.
Prof Falcone said: “Despite being seen as a key energy source of the future, today less than 10% of its estimated global potential is being harnessed, with only a handful of countries exploring and utilising. Almost 90 countries have geothermal energy yet only 24 of them produce electricity from geothermal sources. This unique course will give students the cutting-edge in this hugely abundant and exciting market.”
A unique Geothermal Engineering MSc, designed to meet the growing demand for specialists capable of ensuring this abundant renewable energy source is turned into a constant and independent supply, will start at Cranfield University in October 2017.The MSc equips students with the ability to successfully implement geothermal energy projects, helping lower the dependency on energy imports, therefore developing a broader base in the future energy mix.
The course is led by GRC Member Professor Gioia Falcone, Cranfield’s Head of Centre for Oil and Gas Engineering, and an expert in geothermal technology. It will cover renewable energy technology fundamentals, heat transfer, management for technology, and power generation systems.
Prof Falcone said: “Despite being seen as a key energy source of the future, today less than 10% of its estimated global potential is being harnessed, with only a handful of countries exploring and utilising. Almost 90 countries have geothermal energy yet only 24 of them produce electricity from geothermal sources. This unique course will give students the cutting-edge in this hugely abundant and exciting market.”
Indonesia: 255 MW of Geothermal Power Projects to be Auctioned Next Month
Indonesia to Auction Off Geothermal Power Projects Worth $1b (Jakarta Globe)
The Indonesian government will auction off six geothermal projects worth $1.02 billion in September to expand Indonesia's renewable energy capacity as part of its plan to become the world's largest geothermal producer.
Local companies and foreign investors from the United States, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Turkey and China have expressed interest in the projects, which will have a combined capacity of 255 MW.
"This auction is quite attractive, but we have to wait for the result because the auction process usually takes four to five months," Yunus Saefulhak, geothermal director at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, said over the weekend.
The projects are
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
Local companies and foreign investors from the United States, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Turkey and China have expressed interest in the projects, which will have a combined capacity of 255 MW.
"This auction is quite attractive, but we have to wait for the result because the auction process usually takes four to five months," Yunus Saefulhak, geothermal director at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, said over the weekend.
The projects are
- Kapahiang in Bengkulu with a capacity of 110 MW,
- Simbolon Samosir in North Sumatra with 110 MW,
- Borapulu in Central Sulawesi with 10 MW,
- Lamiding in North Maluku with 10 MW and
- Oka Ile Ange and Mount Sirung in East Nusa Tenggara with capacities of 10 MW and 5 MW, respectively.
USA, Texas: Calpine Could be Sold Soon - Report
PE firm reportedly in talks to buy major Houston power company (Houston Business Journal)
Houston-based power generation company Calpine Corp., one of the biggest U.S. power generators including the operation of geothermal power plants at The Geysers in northern California, reportedly is close to securing a buyer.
People familiar with the matter told Bloomberg that private equity firm Energy Capital Partners is in advanced talks to buy Calpine. A deal could be announced as early as next week, but the talks could still fall through because no final agreement has been reached, the unnamed sources said.
Kenya: Contract to Build Geothermal Wellhead Generation Plant at Olkaria
Chinese firm gets Sh9.45b geothermal contract (Standard Media)
KenGen has awarded a consortium led by a Chinese firm a Sh9.4 billion contract to build a geothermal power plant at Olkaria in Naivasha.
Yantai Jereh Oilfield Services Group announced that it bid to construct a modular power plant on one of the wells that has been drilled but has yet to start supplying steam to any power plant.
It bid for the job in a joint venture that included local contractors H Young. The project entails the installation of wellhead generators which use steam to generate electricity.
Read More..........
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Olkaria II flow test 2. by Patrick Walsh. Active flow test
during construction of the 4th addition to Ormat's Olkaria III complex in
Kenya. Taken in November 2015. GRC Photo
Contest 2016.
|
Yantai Jereh Oilfield Services Group announced that it bid to construct a modular power plant on one of the wells that has been drilled but has yet to start supplying steam to any power plant.
It bid for the job in a joint venture that included local contractors H Young. The project entails the installation of wellhead generators which use steam to generate electricity.
Read More..........
Canada: Drilling at Canoe Reach Geothermal Energy Project to Begin this Year
Borealis to drill this year (The Rocky Mountain Goat)
 |
| (Courtesy Borealis Geopower) |
Borealis Geopower has been exploring and researching the Canoe Reach area for the better part of seven years, going back to 2010.
After completing seven years of fieldwork, Alison Thompson, a principal with Borealis Geopower says Borealis is ready to drill and will do so this year.
“We have drilling authorization for an area near the marina, and the Griffin Sawmill area,” says Thompson.
“Of course, we need funds to be able to complete that work. We are taking concrete efforts to make sure we execute flawlessly,” she says.
Borealis’ flagship project is the Canoe Reach Energy Project located in Valemount, where the Company intends to build a 15 Megawatt Power plant. The Company plans to sell the power to B.C. Hydro, and to other customers via direct electricity sales.
New Zealand: Confidence Shown in the Running of 32 MW Ngawha Geothermal Plant
Regulator defends Top Energy move (New Zealand Herald)
Allowing Top Energy to run its expanded Ngawha geothermal plant in-house is unlikely to cause any competition or market issues, the Electricity Authority says.
The regulator is calling for comments on its draft decision on the Far North distributor's application for an exemption from electricity industry legislation. That requires distribution firms to establish "arms-length" corporate separation between their regulated businesses and their generation assets if they have more than 50 MW of capacity on its own network.
At present the 32 MW nameplate capacity of Top's Ngawha geothermal units and of its 3.65 MW diesel plant in Taipa are within regulatory limits.
Read More.........
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| Ngawha Geothermal Plant (Courtesy Top Energy) |
The regulator is calling for comments on its draft decision on the Far North distributor's application for an exemption from electricity industry legislation. That requires distribution firms to establish "arms-length" corporate separation between their regulated businesses and their generation assets if they have more than 50 MW of capacity on its own network.
At present the 32 MW nameplate capacity of Top's Ngawha geothermal units and of its 3.65 MW diesel plant in Taipa are within regulatory limits.
Read More.........
United Kingdom: Two Geothermal Related Postgraduate Research Studentships
Postgraduate research studentships at Plymouth University
Project title: Psychological and social factors in new types of energy generation: The case of deep geothermal
Project title: Media Framing and Public Acceptance of Deep Geothermal Energy
Plymouth University in south-west England has announced two Postgraduate research studentships with particular relevance to geothermal energy. Both are under the direction of Director of Studies, Professor Iain Stewart.
Project title: Psychological and social factors in new types of energy generation: The case of deep geothermal
- Duration: 3 years
- Start date: 1 October 2017
- Deadline for application: Monday 28 August 2017
Project title: Media Framing and Public Acceptance of Deep Geothermal Energy
- Duration: 3 years
- Start date: 1 October 2017
- Deadline for application: Monday 28 August 2017
Indonesia: New Regulations Aim to Increase Standardisation in Negotiation of PPAs
Indonesian electricity contract regulations raise concerns (Out-Law.com)
Three new regulations have been introduced in Indonesia this year, aiming to standardise and speed up negotiations over power purchase agreements (PPAs), the use of natural gas for electrical power generation, and the use of renewable energy. However, the changes have raised concerns in the power industry.
The first of the three regulations aims to regulate the PPAs between Indonesia's state-owned electricity company PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN) and independent power producers (IPPs) and covers commercial aspects for all types of power generators including thermal power plants, geothermal power plants, hydroelectric power plants and biomass generators.
The regulations aim to increase standardisation in the negotiation of PPAs across all electricity projects in Indonesia, particularly on smaller non-tendered projects. They impose mandatory requirements which more or less reflect those in existing PLN thermal, geothermal and hydroelectric PPAs. The benefits of saving time and money at the bid and negotiation stage have to be balanced with the restrictions on how IPPs can best design solutions to capacity issues.
All projects must now be based on a build, operate and transfer (BOOT) arrangement, as opposed to the traditional build, own, and operate (BOO) basis and the term of the PPAs must not exceed 30 years commencing on the commercial operation date (COD), taking into account the type of power plant used for a particular project. IPPs would need to assess the risk and economic viability of this model in relation to each of their projects.
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