The Future Beneath Our Feet (GooseOnDaLoose Films)
A project funded by the United Kingdom's Environment Film Fellowship, this film looks at geothermal energy and focuses on geothermal energy resources and its relevance in the energy mix for India. The film was shot in Ladakh, New Delhi, Visakhapatnam in India & in Iceland.
(VIDEO 16:25 Minutes)
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Monday, August 19, 2013
Canada:
Saskatchewan Geothermal Start Up Gets Major Financial Aid (Press Release)
DEEP Earth Energy Production Corp. (DEEP) has announced that the Contribution Agreement with SaskPower to fund a $2 Million Front End Engineering Design (FEED) Study on the economic and technical viability of geothermal as a resource for clean electricity generation in southeastern Saskatchewan on a 50/50 basis with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) was signed on July 30, 2013. This news follows a previous announcement made by DEEP on May 3, 2013, that stated that SaskPower was considering this match funding opportunity.
“We are very pleased with SaskPower’s enthusiasm to partner with the Federal Government to co-fund this study to prove out the viability of baseload power generation from these well-known geothermal resources. Both SaskPower’s and NRCan’s support at the early onset of what could be a new industry for our Province and for Canada may be the catalyst to finally put Canada on the map in a firmly established global geothermal power industry. DEEP welcomes SaskPower and NRCan as significant project contributors and looks forward to developing a made-in-Saskatchewan energy solution,” states Kirsten Marcia, President and CEO.
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SaskPower Signs Contribution Agreement with DEEP to Participate in a $2 Million Geothermal Power Front End Engineering and Design Study
“We are very pleased with SaskPower’s enthusiasm to partner with the Federal Government to co-fund this study to prove out the viability of baseload power generation from these well-known geothermal resources. Both SaskPower’s and NRCan’s support at the early onset of what could be a new industry for our Province and for Canada may be the catalyst to finally put Canada on the map in a firmly established global geothermal power industry. DEEP welcomes SaskPower and NRCan as significant project contributors and looks forward to developing a made-in-Saskatchewan energy solution,” states Kirsten Marcia, President and CEO.
Read More.....
USA, Oregon:
Geothermal, Solar Put Oregon Tech On All-Renewables Course (EarthTechling)
Oregon Tech thinks it’s back on track with its ambitious goal of becoming the first university in North America to generate all of the electrical power it requires – from renewable sources, no less.
The university, in Klamath Falls on the eastern slope of the Cascade Mountains in southern Oregon, is in a great spot for renewable energy. Klamath Falls boasts that it gets nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, and the Klamath Basin sits atop a geothermal reservoir.
Geothermal already serves campus heating needs and there’s a 280-kilowatt geothermal combined heat and power plant on campus. Geothermal also provides process heat to the local wastewater treatment plant and keeps dozens of city buildings, schools, swimming pools and more warm.
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| The 2 MW solar array at the Oregon Tech Klamath Falls campus (Courtesy Oregon Institute of Technology) |
The university, in Klamath Falls on the eastern slope of the Cascade Mountains in southern Oregon, is in a great spot for renewable energy. Klamath Falls boasts that it gets nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, and the Klamath Basin sits atop a geothermal reservoir.
Geothermal already serves campus heating needs and there’s a 280-kilowatt geothermal combined heat and power plant on campus. Geothermal also provides process heat to the local wastewater treatment plant and keeps dozens of city buildings, schools, swimming pools and more warm.
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Global:
Average Year of Growth for Geothermal but Vast Potential (Renewable Energy Focus)
The global geothermal energy market continued growing in 2012; however the newly installed capacity of 353 MWe represents average growth in respect to the last six years (547 MWe; 317 MWe, 338 MWe, 392 MWe and 225 MWe; 2011-2007 respectively). The U.S. contributed 147 MWe of newly installed capacity for the year, and another 207 MWe is a result of statistical revision done by the U.S. Geothermal Energy Association (GEA). Hence, the U.S. has around 3386 MWe of installed geothermal plant and remains the largest national market.
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Italy:
Enel: Numeri Positivi Per La Geotermia In Italia - Enel: Positive Numbers For Geothermal Energy In Italy (Orizzontenergia)
Una fonte rinnovabile importante per l’Italia e fondamentale per la Toscana, dove l’energia geotermica soddisfa il 26% della domanda elettrica regionale, con ricadute occupazionali ed economiche di rilievo.
Geothermal energy is a renewable source important for Italy and fundamental to Tuscany, where it meets 26% of the regional electricity demand, with major implications for employment and the economy.
The GRC Annual Meeting and GEA Geothermal Energy Expo will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first geothermal power plant in Tuscany, Sept.29-Oct.2 in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.
"A Global Resource: From Larderello to Las Vegas"
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| Larderello in Tuscany - Home of the geothermal industry |
Geothermal energy is a renewable source important for Italy and fundamental to Tuscany, where it meets 26% of the regional electricity demand, with major implications for employment and the economy.
The GRC Annual Meeting and GEA Geothermal Energy Expo will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first geothermal power plant in Tuscany, Sept.29-Oct.2 in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.
"A Global Resource: From Larderello to Las Vegas"
Read More......
Indonesia:
Raya Group Funded for Geothermal Projects in Indonesia (Proactive Investors Australia - Press Release)
Raya Group (formerly Panax Geothermal) has signed a heads of agreement with Australian based Space Con Pty Ltd for the development and financing of Raya’s portfolio of advanced geothermal development projects in Indonesia.
Space Con’s agreement with Raya has the backing of large Korean institutional banks who are seeking to provide the necessary debt / project financing aspects for the development of the Indonesian geothermal portfolio.
Raya will maintain a 20% free carry interest in each of the projects and is not required to contribute any additional funding towards exploration or development costs of the projects.
Significantly, it is therefore fully-funded for its share of the development of the projects.
Raya will also receive a cash payment of $US1 million upon the commencement of the development of the first of the three geothermal projects.
Space Con’s agreement with Raya has the backing of large Korean institutional banks who are seeking to provide the necessary debt / project financing aspects for the development of the Indonesian geothermal portfolio.
Raya will maintain a 20% free carry interest in each of the projects and is not required to contribute any additional funding towards exploration or development costs of the projects.
Significantly, it is therefore fully-funded for its share of the development of the projects.
Raya will also receive a cash payment of $US1 million upon the commencement of the development of the first of the three geothermal projects.
Saturday, August 17, 2013
USA, Idaho:
U.S. Geothermal Management Discusses Q2 2013 Results - Earnings Call Transcript (seekingalpha)
Dennis J. Gilles - Chief Executive Officer, Director and Member of Audit Committee, Kerry Hawkley, Chief Financial Officer; and Doug Glaspey, President and Operating -- Chief Operating Officer, discuss the companies Second Quarter 2013 Results.
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Friday, August 16, 2013
Global:
Hotel Room Discount Deadline for Major Geothermal Event Is Today
The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) reminds attendees that the offer of discounted hotel rooms at the world’s largest annual geothermal conference at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, Sept. 29-Oct.2, will end today.
The weekday room rate for the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo at the MGM Grand Resort at present is $89. From tomorrow the rates will increase by over $60. Rooms in the three towers of the Signature at MGM Grand are sold out. Hotel room reservations can be made by following a link from the GRC website at www.geothermal.org.
The GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo is the industry’s largest annual gathering of leading geothermal energy scientists, producers, renewable energy industry stakeholders, regulators, utilities, and key associated business leaders. The four-day event will offer technical, policy, and market conference sessions, educational seminars, tours of local geothermal and renewable energy projects, and numerous networking opportunities.
Early birds who register before August 31 pay only $695 as GRC members or $795 if non-members. The non-member registration includes GRC membership through 2014. Students with a current identification card from an accredited institution pay just $5 which includes GRC membership through 2014. Registration to the GRC Annual Meeting also includes entry to the GEA Energy Expo.
Registration is available from the GRC website at www.geothermal.org. A Preliminary Program complete with a Registration Form is available to view and download. However, the GRC recommends online registration through a secured connection. The link is also available on the front page of the GRC website at www.geothermal.org.
For more information about the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, visit www.geothermal.org/meet-new.html or call (530) 758-2360.
For information on how to sponsor this event, contact Estela Smith, GRC at (530) 758-2360 or grc@geothermal.org.
Register by midnight tonight to save over $60 on room rates for the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Expo.
The weekday room rate for the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo at the MGM Grand Resort at present is $89. From tomorrow the rates will increase by over $60. Rooms in the three towers of the Signature at MGM Grand are sold out. Hotel room reservations can be made by following a link from the GRC website at www.geothermal.org.
The GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo is the industry’s largest annual gathering of leading geothermal energy scientists, producers, renewable energy industry stakeholders, regulators, utilities, and key associated business leaders. The four-day event will offer technical, policy, and market conference sessions, educational seminars, tours of local geothermal and renewable energy projects, and numerous networking opportunities.
Early birds who register before August 31 pay only $695 as GRC members or $795 if non-members. The non-member registration includes GRC membership through 2014. Students with a current identification card from an accredited institution pay just $5 which includes GRC membership through 2014. Registration to the GRC Annual Meeting also includes entry to the GEA Energy Expo.
Registration is available from the GRC website at www.geothermal.org. A Preliminary Program complete with a Registration Form is available to view and download. However, the GRC recommends online registration through a secured connection. The link is also available on the front page of the GRC website at www.geothermal.org.
For more information about the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, visit www.geothermal.org/meet-new.html or call (530) 758-2360.
For information on how to sponsor this event, contact Estela Smith, GRC at (530) 758-2360 or grc@geothermal.org.
Philippines:
Palinpinon-1 Geothermal Power Plant Celebrates Three Decades of Geothermal Excellence (Power Engineering International News)
Energy Development Corporation (EDC) has once again proven that geothermal plants can last beyond their average life span of 25 years with the 30th anniversary celebration of its 2nd oldest power plant, Palinpinon-1, located in Valencia, Negros Oriental.
On Thursday morning, EDC celebrated with a Thanksgiving Day and cited five of its employees of the Southern Negros Geothermal Production Field (SNGPF) in Valencia as well as gave due recognition to its partners and stakeholders, to include the municipal government and barangay chairpersons of the host communities where the geothermal fields are located.
EDC's 112.5 MWe Palinpinon-1 power plant was commissioned in 1983 to supply power to Negros Island as well as other neighboring provinces in the Visayas region.
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| Southern Negros Geothermal Production Field (SNGPF) (Courtesy EDC) |
On Thursday morning, EDC celebrated with a Thanksgiving Day and cited five of its employees of the Southern Negros Geothermal Production Field (SNGPF) in Valencia as well as gave due recognition to its partners and stakeholders, to include the municipal government and barangay chairpersons of the host communities where the geothermal fields are located.
EDC's 112.5 MWe Palinpinon-1 power plant was commissioned in 1983 to supply power to Negros Island as well as other neighboring provinces in the Visayas region.
Read More......
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Italy:
Geothermal Story: Larderello
100 years ago, Larderello 1, the first commercial geothermal power plant in the world, began operating. Come help us celebrate at the biggest geothermal energy event in the world!
GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo
September 29 - October 2
MGM Grand, Las Vegas, USA
“A Global Resource, from Larderello to Las Vegas”
(VIDEO 6:01 minutes)
100 years ago, Larderello 1, the first commercial geothermal power plant in the world, began operating. Come help us celebrate at the biggest geothermal energy event in the world!
GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo
September 29 - October 2
MGM Grand, Las Vegas, USA
“A Global Resource, from Larderello to Las Vegas”
(VIDEO 6:01 minutes)
USA:
Geothermal Power Plants Face Rocky Starts (Scientific American)
Vast reservoirs of heat are locked in the earth's interior, untapped. The ground underneath our feet holds so much heat that tapping only 2 percent of it could satisfy current annual U.S. energy use 2,000-fold for each and every year of the foreseeable future, according to an analysis from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Fracking, the same technology used to drill for natural gas, may provide an economical way to get at that geothermal energy.
If technologies can be developed to reduce the risks, geothermal could play a more prominent energy role. With that in mind, the DOE is pursuing better methods for geothermal prospecting, drilling and fracking. Because much of that work could also benefit traditional drilling, the oil and gas industry may actually help foot the bill for enhanced geothermal technology.
Read More.....
The technology that revitalized gas drilling could start an entirely new energy boom
Vast reservoirs of heat are locked in the earth's interior, untapped. The ground underneath our feet holds so much heat that tapping only 2 percent of it could satisfy current annual U.S. energy use 2,000-fold for each and every year of the foreseeable future, according to an analysis from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Fracking, the same technology used to drill for natural gas, may provide an economical way to get at that geothermal energy.
If technologies can be developed to reduce the risks, geothermal could play a more prominent energy role. With that in mind, the DOE is pursuing better methods for geothermal prospecting, drilling and fracking. Because much of that work could also benefit traditional drilling, the oil and gas industry may actually help foot the bill for enhanced geothermal technology.
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Nicaragua:
Ram Power, Corp. Announces Updates for the San Jacinto-Tizate Project (Andhra News.net - Press Release)
Ram Power, Corp., announces an update on the remediation drilling program at the company's San Jacinto-Tizate Project.
As previously disclosed, the remediation drilling operations of wells SJ 6-1 and SJ 9-3 are being led by Sinclair Knight Merz, the resource consultant for the company, in consultation with PENSA and Thermasource Inc. Drilling on both wells is expected to be completed by late November 2013.
Ram Power completed its remediation program for well SJ 6-1 on August 14, 2013. The drilling operation successfully replaced 367 meters of damaged liner and perforated a 60 meter section of liner which had demonstrated increased temperature and permeability. Well SJ 6-1 is now shut-in and following a 4 to 6 week heat up period, will be tested and be put back online in late September or early October.
The drilling rig has initiated moving from well pad 6 to well pad 9 for the remediation of well SJ 9-3. In preparation for the remediation work, well SJ 9-3 was taken offline on August 14, 2013, which resulted in a temporary loss of power production of approximately 5 MW (net), bringing current production of the project to approximately 46 MW (net).
In addition, the company is currently evaluating remediation plans for two additional wells, SJ 6-2 and SJ 12-3. Further information will be disclosed at a future date upon the company's completion of its evaluation of these wells.
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As previously disclosed, the remediation drilling operations of wells SJ 6-1 and SJ 9-3 are being led by Sinclair Knight Merz, the resource consultant for the company, in consultation with PENSA and Thermasource Inc. Drilling on both wells is expected to be completed by late November 2013.
Ram Power completed its remediation program for well SJ 6-1 on August 14, 2013. The drilling operation successfully replaced 367 meters of damaged liner and perforated a 60 meter section of liner which had demonstrated increased temperature and permeability. Well SJ 6-1 is now shut-in and following a 4 to 6 week heat up period, will be tested and be put back online in late September or early October.
The drilling rig has initiated moving from well pad 6 to well pad 9 for the remediation of well SJ 9-3. In preparation for the remediation work, well SJ 9-3 was taken offline on August 14, 2013, which resulted in a temporary loss of power production of approximately 5 MW (net), bringing current production of the project to approximately 46 MW (net).
In addition, the company is currently evaluating remediation plans for two additional wells, SJ 6-2 and SJ 12-3. Further information will be disclosed at a future date upon the company's completion of its evaluation of these wells.
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Philippines:
Aboitiz Power to Bid for 440 MWe Unified Leyte Project (NewNet)
Philippines-based electricity utility Abotiz Power has confirmed the company will compete in the nation’s selection process for Independent Power Producer Administrators (IPPA) to control its Unified Leyte geothermal power plants.
The bidding process, lead by the Power Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM), is set to begin on 29 October, where a successful large bidder will assume ownership of 440 MWe capacity from the complex.
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The bidding process, lead by the Power Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM), is set to begin on 29 October, where a successful large bidder will assume ownership of 440 MWe capacity from the complex.
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USA, Oregon:
OIT Geothermal Plant Under Construction (Herald and News)
The Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT) is on the road to getting off the grid.
Construction has begun on the structure that will house a new geothermal plant. At the site, steel beams rise from a floor of concrete two feet thick, which will support the necessary equipment to turn an aquifer of geothermal water into 1.75 MWe — pushing OIT toward energy autonomy.
The project, along with a nine-acre, two MW solar array also under construction, will make the campus almost completely carbon-neutral.
As part of that goal, the college plans on building an information kiosk around the geothermal pump itself, which plunges 5,300 feet into the ground.
“We want people to look at this and think, ‘Maybe I can do this; maybe this could work for my business or my ranch,’ ” said Chris Maples, OIT president.
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Construction has begun on the structure that will house a new geothermal plant. At the site, steel beams rise from a floor of concrete two feet thick, which will support the necessary equipment to turn an aquifer of geothermal water into 1.75 MWe — pushing OIT toward energy autonomy.
The project, along with a nine-acre, two MW solar array also under construction, will make the campus almost completely carbon-neutral.
As part of that goal, the college plans on building an information kiosk around the geothermal pump itself, which plunges 5,300 feet into the ground.
“We want people to look at this and think, ‘Maybe I can do this; maybe this could work for my business or my ranch,’ ” said Chris Maples, OIT president.
Read More.....
USA:
Intermittent Nature of Green Power Is Challenge for Utilities (New York Times)
The 21 turbines at the Kingdom Community Wind farm in Vermont soar above Lowell Mountain, a testament in steel and fiberglass to the state’s growing use of green energy.
Except when they aren’t allowed to spin at their fastest. That has been the case several times in the farm’s short existence, including during the record July heat wave when it could have produced enough much-needed energy to fuel a small town. Instead, the grid system operator held it at times to just one-third of what it could have produced.
“We were being told to turn on diesel-fired units that are very expensive and dirty and told to ramp down what is renewable, cost-effective energy for our customers,” said Mary Powell, chief executive of Green Mountain Power, the utility that owns and operates the wind plant. “We should go with the sources that can have the highest value, especially during peak times.”
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The 21 turbines at the Kingdom Community Wind farm in Vermont soar above Lowell Mountain, a testament in steel and fiberglass to the state’s growing use of green energy.
Except when they aren’t allowed to spin at their fastest. That has been the case several times in the farm’s short existence, including during the record July heat wave when it could have produced enough much-needed energy to fuel a small town. Instead, the grid system operator held it at times to just one-third of what it could have produced.
“We were being told to turn on diesel-fired units that are very expensive and dirty and told to ramp down what is renewable, cost-effective energy for our customers,” said Mary Powell, chief executive of Green Mountain Power, the utility that owns and operates the wind plant. “We should go with the sources that can have the highest value, especially during peak times.”
Read More.....
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Australia:
Old Oil Wells Serve Perth’s Geothermal Future (Science Network Western Australia)
Decades-old oil wells could hold the key to the expansion of renewable geothermal energy in Perth, according to Curtin University geologists.
They have used old data from petroleum exploration dating back to the 1960s to test the idea that hot water found in porous rocks could be a future energy source.
Until the 1980s, oil companies drilled dozens of exploration wells throughout the Perth Basin—the geological formation beneath the city.
But because they were searching for hydrocarbons, the well data contained precious little information about the other chemicals and conditions under the ground, explains Domenik Wolff-Boenisch, who led the new study.
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They have used old data from petroleum exploration dating back to the 1960s to test the idea that hot water found in porous rocks could be a future energy source.
Until the 1980s, oil companies drilled dozens of exploration wells throughout the Perth Basin—the geological formation beneath the city.
But because they were searching for hydrocarbons, the well data contained precious little information about the other chemicals and conditions under the ground, explains Domenik Wolff-Boenisch, who led the new study.
Read More.....
USA, Idaho:
U.S. Geothermal Inc. Reports First Six Months 2013 Results (Stockhouse)
Recent Achievements:
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Recent Achievements:
- Generated fleet wide total 65,303 MWh in the second quarter of 2013
- Delivered quarterly average availabilities of: Raft River - 89.3%, San Emidio - 91.5%, Neal Hot Springs - 72.2%
- Continued with final commissioning completion activities at Neal Hot Springs including 15-20 day outages at each plant to make final corrections, and received the certificate of final completion from the EPC contractor on June 27, 2013.
- Held 6 and 10 day planned outages at San Emidio and Raft River respectively to make normal repairs, upgrade equipment, and conduct warranty modifications.
- Completed drilling resource confirmation well at El Ceibillo project in Guatemala, and began well testing.
- Prepared for start of drilling at San Emidio 2 plant expansion.
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Global:
GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Energy Expo - Update
- Discounted Room Block at The MGM Grand Expires This Friday, August 16 - Make your reservation now
- Early Bird GRC Annual Meeting Registration Expires August 30 - Register Online now....or download the Registration Form
- Advertising Rates Now Available For The GRC Annual Meeting Program Guide - Artwork Due Date: August 31
- The GRC Annual Photo Contest - Submission Deadline: August 31
- Become a Sponsor of The World's Largest Annual Geothermal Conference!
- Don't Forget To Register For The GRC Charity Golf Tournament!
USA, California:
BLM Approves New Geothermal Development Plan in Imperial Valley (Environment & Energy Publishing)
The Obama administration has formally established a solar and geothermal power development area on a 64,000-acre strip of public and private land in Southern California that if built out to full capacity has the potential to produce enough electricity to power more than 1 million homes.
The Bureau of Land Management announced yesterday that it has issued a Record of Decision (ROD) establishing the West Chocolate Mountains Renewable Energy Evaluation Area (REEA) on a strip of the Imperial Valley that's sandwiched between the Salton Sea to the west and the Marine Corps' massive Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range to the east.
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The Bureau of Land Management announced yesterday that it has issued a Record of Decision (ROD) establishing the West Chocolate Mountains Renewable Energy Evaluation Area (REEA) on a strip of the Imperial Valley that's sandwiched between the Salton Sea to the west and the Marine Corps' massive Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range to the east.
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Central America:
German Financial Cooperation with Central America - Invitation to Bid
As first stage of an international open bidding procedure for the consulting services required for the elaboration of a Pre-Feasibility Study on the Potential of Geothermal Development in Central America and the establishment of risk mitigation and financing mechanisms, the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) hereby invites qualified independent consultants to submit a prequalification document (Expression of Interest).
Funds for the services have been earmarked for this project and will be provided by a special fund held by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through KfW Development Bank.
The expressions of interest have to be submitted and must be received not later than September 12th, 2013, at 16:00 local time CABEI in Tegucigalpa (one original and one copy) and at KfW Development Bank in Frankfurt (two copies). Only the submission of the set with the original at CABEI is relevant for timely delivery.
Invitation for Expression of Interest (PDF)
Funds for the services have been earmarked for this project and will be provided by a special fund held by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through KfW Development Bank.
The expressions of interest have to be submitted and must be received not later than September 12th, 2013, at 16:00 local time CABEI in Tegucigalpa (one original and one copy) and at KfW Development Bank in Frankfurt (two copies). Only the submission of the set with the original at CABEI is relevant for timely delivery.
Invitation for Expression of Interest (PDF)
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
USA, California:
Casa Diablo IV Geothermal Energy Project Gets Approval (Press Release)
During a keynote address at the U.S. National Clean Energy Summit, Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell today that the BLM has approved a new 40 MWe geothermal project in California.
The Casa Diablo IV Geothermal Energy Project, located in Mono County, California, will construct up to 16 new production and injection wells, multiple pipelines and an electric transmission line. Ormat Nevada Inc. will develop the project on public and private land, and the project will generate more than 180 construction and permanent jobs. When completed, this project would produce enough energy to power 36,000 homes.
"These projects are significant steps forward in the President's all-of-the-above energy strategy and marks continued progress on his call for action on climate change," said Secretary Jewell. "Harnessing the vast renewable resources on the public lands will create jobs, increase our energy security and help reduce carbon pollution."
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| U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell |
The Casa Diablo IV Geothermal Energy Project, located in Mono County, California, will construct up to 16 new production and injection wells, multiple pipelines and an electric transmission line. Ormat Nevada Inc. will develop the project on public and private land, and the project will generate more than 180 construction and permanent jobs. When completed, this project would produce enough energy to power 36,000 homes.
"These projects are significant steps forward in the President's all-of-the-above energy strategy and marks continued progress on his call for action on climate change," said Secretary Jewell. "Harnessing the vast renewable resources on the public lands will create jobs, increase our energy security and help reduce carbon pollution."
Read More.....
China:
Geothermal Exploration in China (China Daily)
The No 313 geological team recently dug a mesothermal geothermal well reaching temperatures of 66 C in Tongluozhai district of Dabieshan (Liuan) Geopark, Anhui province. It is the hottest geothermal well in the geopark with a daily water yield of over 400 cubic meters.
The geothermal well, located in Doushahe village of Huoshan county, is an important hydrologic geological relic that is valuable for research and medical treatment. Since the 1980s, the No 313 geological team has been searching the area for geothermal water. It has dug several geothermal wells after prospecting operations.
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The geothermal well, located in Doushahe village of Huoshan county, is an important hydrologic geological relic that is valuable for research and medical treatment. Since the 1980s, the No 313 geological team has been searching the area for geothermal water. It has dug several geothermal wells after prospecting operations.
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USA, Idaho:
U.S. Geothermal Inc. Announces Distribution of the $33 Million Cash Grant Received for the Neal Hot Springs Project (MarketWatch - Press Release)
U.S. Geothermal Inc., announced today the distribution of the cash grant at the Neal Hot Springs geothermal power project.
As previously announced on April 13, 2013, U.S. Geothermal's subsidiary, USG Oregon LLC, received a cash grant payment of $32,749,541 from the U.S. Department of Treasury for Specified Energy Property under Section 1603, Division B of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
The cash grant funds have been held in a controlled account established by the U.S. Department of Energy as guarantor of the low interest rate loan provided by the U.S. Treasury's Federal Financing Bank under the DOE's Title XVII loan guarantee program, which was created by the Energy Policy Act of 2005.
After the loan prepayment, the remaining final loan balance is $70.4 Million. This loan has 21.5 years remaining with an aggregate fixed interest rate of 2.598%.
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As previously announced on April 13, 2013, U.S. Geothermal's subsidiary, USG Oregon LLC, received a cash grant payment of $32,749,541 from the U.S. Department of Treasury for Specified Energy Property under Section 1603, Division B of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
The cash grant funds have been held in a controlled account established by the U.S. Department of Energy as guarantor of the low interest rate loan provided by the U.S. Treasury's Federal Financing Bank under the DOE's Title XVII loan guarantee program, which was created by the Energy Policy Act of 2005.
After the loan prepayment, the remaining final loan balance is $70.4 Million. This loan has 21.5 years remaining with an aggregate fixed interest rate of 2.598%.
Read More.....
Monday, August 12, 2013
El Salvador:
El Salvador's Geothermal Potential (CentralAmericaData)
With an investment of $1.5 billion El Salvador could add 440 MWe to the 204 MWe already produced based on geothermal energy sources.
The projections were made by Julio Valdivieso, president of the company LaGeo. Furthermore, Toshitaka Takeuchi, energy specialist at the Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo (BID), said El Salvador could generate up to 644 MWe (440 MWe more than it already has as installed capacity).
According to Valdivieso, "unlike other renewable energy sources, the discovery and exploitation of a geothermal well requires a significant investment, with varying success probabilities," reported Elmundo.com.sv. The cost of maintaining a geothermal well in order for it to produce profits is between about $6 million and $8 million.
According to the Master Plan for the Development of Renewable Energy of the National Energy Council (CNE) the country's capacity could grow to 791 MWe, of which 644 MWe would be related to energy generation in 12 points where there could be geothermal wells.
With an investment of $1.5 billion El Salvador could add 440 MWe to the 204 MWe already produced based on geothermal energy sources.
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
According to Valdivieso, "unlike other renewable energy sources, the discovery and exploitation of a geothermal well requires a significant investment, with varying success probabilities," reported Elmundo.com.sv. The cost of maintaining a geothermal well in order for it to produce profits is between about $6 million and $8 million.
According to the Master Plan for the Development of Renewable Energy of the National Energy Council (CNE) the country's capacity could grow to 791 MWe, of which 644 MWe would be related to energy generation in 12 points where there could be geothermal wells.
Kenya:
Kenyan Power Output to Hit 5,000 MW in 3 Years (Standard Digital)
The Kenyan government has announced an ambitious plan to increase power production in the country to 5,000 MWe in the next three years. Geothermal will be a big contributor.
According to the Cabinet Secretary in charge of Energy Davis Chirchir, plans were under way to achieve the target in 40 months.
Speaking after visiting Olkaria geothermal power plant in Naivasha, Mr Chirchir said geothermal as one area that was yet to be fully exploited.
“In fact our tour here at Olkaria is to assess how much of the 5,000 MWe will come from geothermal,” he said.
Read More.....
The Kenyan government has announced an ambitious plan to increase power production in the country to 5,000 MWe in the next three years. Geothermal will be a big contributor.
According to the Cabinet Secretary in charge of Energy Davis Chirchir, plans were under way to achieve the target in 40 months.
Speaking after visiting Olkaria geothermal power plant in Naivasha, Mr Chirchir said geothermal as one area that was yet to be fully exploited.
“In fact our tour here at Olkaria is to assess how much of the 5,000 MWe will come from geothermal,” he said.
Read More.....
Tanzania:
Japan Pledges to Train 1000 Tanzania Geothermal Experts (AllAfrica.com)
Japan has promised to train 1000 Tanzanians on Geothermal Power issues to enable the country to have its own experts in thermal generation.
The Japanese Minister for Economy, Trade and Industry, Mr Toshimitsu Motegi said in Dar es Salaam that the training will start in January, next year. He was speaking during a one-day Tanzania-Japan Business Forum held in the city.
In another development, Mr Motegi said the Japanese government will make more contribution to creation of employment and capacity building in Africa.
On Monday, September 30, 2013 at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Energy Expo, the sixth annual International Luncheon will bring together experts from around the world with U.S. private and public sector stakeholders to discuss the latest developments in harnessing East Africa’s considerable geothermal energy resources. Attendees will be able to meet and greet these experts, and explore partnership opportunities. Free with GRC Annual Meeting Registration.
Read More.....
Japan has promised to train 1000 Tanzanians on Geothermal Power issues to enable the country to have its own experts in thermal generation.
The Japanese Minister for Economy, Trade and Industry, Mr Toshimitsu Motegi said in Dar es Salaam that the training will start in January, next year. He was speaking during a one-day Tanzania-Japan Business Forum held in the city.
In another development, Mr Motegi said the Japanese government will make more contribution to creation of employment and capacity building in Africa.
On Monday, September 30, 2013 at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Energy Expo, the sixth annual International Luncheon will bring together experts from around the world with U.S. private and public sector stakeholders to discuss the latest developments in harnessing East Africa’s considerable geothermal energy resources. Attendees will be able to meet and greet these experts, and explore partnership opportunities. Free with GRC Annual Meeting Registration.
Read More.....
Nigeria:
Geothermal Energy Recommended in Nigeria (THISDAY Live)
A Nigerian tourism and hospitality management expert, Mr. Timothy Oladimeji, has advocated the use of geothermal reservoir as an alternative energy source to combat the frequent power outages in the country, stressing that Nigeria’s development is tied to an effective and sustainable energy stability.
Oladimeji, also a Lecturer at the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Bauchi campus, in a seminar paper titled ‘Exploitation of Geothermal reservoirs for tourism and sustainable energy development’ presented to staff members and students of the institute as well as stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism sector, emphasized that geothermal energy is an economically viable replacement for petroleum products in the country.
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
Oladimeji, also a Lecturer at the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Bauchi campus, in a seminar paper titled ‘Exploitation of Geothermal reservoirs for tourism and sustainable energy development’ presented to staff members and students of the institute as well as stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism sector, emphasized that geothermal energy is an economically viable replacement for petroleum products in the country.
Read More......
Philippines:
EDC to dismantle Northern Negros Geothermal Power Plant (Sun.Star)
After it failed to generate the targeted capacity, the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) informed the Provincial Council about its plan to dismantle its 49 MWe Northern Negros Geothermal Power Plant (NNGPP) in Barangay Mailum, Bago City, Negros Occidental.
Board Member Patrick Lacson, chairman of the Provincial Council Committee on Environment, said EDC will retain only the facilities and equipment appropriate to the six to 8 MWe capacity currently being generated from the NNGPP.
The billions worth power plant will be transferred to the Palinpinon Geothermal Power Plant of EDC in Negros Oriental, Lacson said.
Read More.....
After it failed to generate the targeted capacity, the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) informed the Provincial Council about its plan to dismantle its 49 MWe Northern Negros Geothermal Power Plant (NNGPP) in Barangay Mailum, Bago City, Negros Occidental.
Board Member Patrick Lacson, chairman of the Provincial Council Committee on Environment, said EDC will retain only the facilities and equipment appropriate to the six to 8 MWe capacity currently being generated from the NNGPP.
The billions worth power plant will be transferred to the Palinpinon Geothermal Power Plant of EDC in Negros Oriental, Lacson said.
Read More.....
Global:
Hotel Room Discount Deadline for Major Geothermal Event Is This Week
The Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) reminds attendees that the offer of discounted hotel rooms at the world’s largest annual geothermal conference at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, Sept. 29-Oct.2, will end this week.
The weekday room rate for the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo at the MGM Grand Resort at present is $89. After August 16 the rates will increase by over $60. Rooms in the three towers of the Signature at MGM Grand are sold out. Hotel room reservations can be made by following a link from the GRC website at www.geothermal.org.
The GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo is the industry’s largest annual gathering of leading geothermal energy scientists, producers, renewable energy industry stakeholders, regulators, utilities, and key associated business leaders. The four-day event will offer technical, policy, and market conference sessions, educational seminars, tours of local geothermal and renewable energy projects, and numerous networking opportunities.
Early birds who register before August 31 pay only $695 as GRC members or $795 if non-members. The non-member registration includes GRC membership through 2014. Students with a current identification card from an accredited institution pay just $5 which includes GRC membership through 2014. Registration to the GRC Annual Meeting also includes entry to the GEA Energy Expo.
Registration is available from the GRC website at www.geothermal.org. A Preliminary Program complete with a Registration Form is available to view and download. However, the GRC recommends online registration through a secured connection. The link is also available on the front page of the GRC website at www.geothermal.org.
For more information about the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, visit www.geothermal.org/meet-new.html or call (530) 758-2360.
For information on how to sponsor this event, contact Estela Smith, GRC at (530) 758-2360 or grc@geothermal.org.
Register by August 16 to save over $60 on room rates for the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Expo.
The weekday room rate for the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo at the MGM Grand Resort at present is $89. After August 16 the rates will increase by over $60. Rooms in the three towers of the Signature at MGM Grand are sold out. Hotel room reservations can be made by following a link from the GRC website at www.geothermal.org.
The GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo is the industry’s largest annual gathering of leading geothermal energy scientists, producers, renewable energy industry stakeholders, regulators, utilities, and key associated business leaders. The four-day event will offer technical, policy, and market conference sessions, educational seminars, tours of local geothermal and renewable energy projects, and numerous networking opportunities.
Early birds who register before August 31 pay only $695 as GRC members or $795 if non-members. The non-member registration includes GRC membership through 2014. Students with a current identification card from an accredited institution pay just $5 which includes GRC membership through 2014. Registration to the GRC Annual Meeting also includes entry to the GEA Energy Expo.
Registration is available from the GRC website at www.geothermal.org. A Preliminary Program complete with a Registration Form is available to view and download. However, the GRC recommends online registration through a secured connection. The link is also available on the front page of the GRC website at www.geothermal.org.
For more information about the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, visit www.geothermal.org/meet-new.html or call (530) 758-2360.
For information on how to sponsor this event, contact Estela Smith, GRC at (530) 758-2360 or grc@geothermal.org.
Friday, August 9, 2013
USA:
State Geological Survey Contributions to the National Geothermal Data System (Arizona Geological Survey)
All 50 states are represented in the National Geothermal Data System (NGDS) project and subcontractors, including the Geothermal Resources Council, been actively participating in data digitization, collection, and distribution.
For the second year in a row, the project has received “good” or “outstanding” review comments during the annual sponsor peer review. Each reviewer scored the project as “outstanding” the highest possible mark for relevance and impact of research. Comments include “the project is collecting a treasure trove of data assets from all of the state geological surveys” and “state level data discovery, access, and cataloging/tagging are crucial to the larger NGDS goals.”
The Arizona Geological Survey will be at booth #334 in the GEA Energy Expo, run concurrently with the GRC Annual Meeting at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, Sept. 29- Oct. 2. They will also be giving presentations in the Technical Session.
Read More.....
Accomplishments for Federal Fiscal Year 2012
For the second year in a row, the project has received “good” or “outstanding” review comments during the annual sponsor peer review. Each reviewer scored the project as “outstanding” the highest possible mark for relevance and impact of research. Comments include “the project is collecting a treasure trove of data assets from all of the state geological surveys” and “state level data discovery, access, and cataloging/tagging are crucial to the larger NGDS goals.”
The Arizona Geological Survey will be at booth #334 in the GEA Energy Expo, run concurrently with the GRC Annual Meeting at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, Sept. 29- Oct. 2. They will also be giving presentations in the Technical Session.
Read More.....
New Zealand, Indonesia:
Head of Steam Building for Kiwi Businesses in Indonesia (Stuff.co.nz)
A new partnership may hold the key to a suite of New Zealand companies cracking the potentially lucrative Indonesian geothermal energy market.
Auckland-based construction company Hawkins is jointly bidding with French electricity giant Alstom to build the multimillion-dollar Karaha Bodas power plant, in West Java, for state-owned Pertamina Geothermal Energy.
If the bid is successful, Hawkins energy manager Bernard Hill said it will bring in a consortium of New Zealand firms covering engineering, subcontracting, legal, banking and insurance sectors.
Read More.....
Auckland-based construction company Hawkins is jointly bidding with French electricity giant Alstom to build the multimillion-dollar Karaha Bodas power plant, in West Java, for state-owned Pertamina Geothermal Energy.
If the bid is successful, Hawkins energy manager Bernard Hill said it will bring in a consortium of New Zealand firms covering engineering, subcontracting, legal, banking and insurance sectors.
Read More.....
Hungary:
Geothermal Mining Tender Announced (Budapest Business Journal)
In keeping with its previously stated goals to diversify energy resources and securing local supply, the National Development Ministry of Hungary today announced tenders for geothermal energy and hydrocarbon mining concessions.
The 35-year geothermal energy concessions up for bid are for located in Jászberény, Ferencszállás and Kecskemét. Deadline for the applications in November 15, with awarding of the tenders to be announced by mid-February 2014.
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
The 35-year geothermal energy concessions up for bid are for located in Jászberény, Ferencszállás and Kecskemét. Deadline for the applications in November 15, with awarding of the tenders to be announced by mid-February 2014.
Read More.....
Kenya, Tanzania:
Kenya, Tanzania to Partner on Geothermal Project (The Star)
Kenya has entered into a partnership with Tanzania to develop geothermal exploration. Tanzania’s Energy Com- missioner Hosea Mbise has said the country is exploring alternative sources of renewable energy to shift its over- reliance on hydro-electric power.
The partnership was agreed on following a week- long tour to Kenya by 32 members of the Tanzanian Parliamentary Committee on Energy and Mining. During the tour of the Menengai Geothermal Station, that started on Sunday and ends tomorrow, Mbise said the deal will see Kenya set up modalities to explore geothermal power.
He said Tanzania will rely on Kenya’s geothermal expertise, experience and equipment to diversify sources of electric power. Key areas of the partnership deal unveiled yesterday will include training for Ministry of Energy staff in Tanzania.
On Monday, September 30, 2013 at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Energy Expo, the sixth annual International Luncheon will bring together experts from around the world with U.S. private and public sector stakeholders to discuss the latest developments in harnessing East Africa’s considerable geothermal energy resources. Attendees will be able to meet and greet these experts, and explore partnership opportunities. Free with GRC Annual Meeting Registration.
Read More.....
The partnership was agreed on following a week- long tour to Kenya by 32 members of the Tanzanian Parliamentary Committee on Energy and Mining. During the tour of the Menengai Geothermal Station, that started on Sunday and ends tomorrow, Mbise said the deal will see Kenya set up modalities to explore geothermal power.
He said Tanzania will rely on Kenya’s geothermal expertise, experience and equipment to diversify sources of electric power. Key areas of the partnership deal unveiled yesterday will include training for Ministry of Energy staff in Tanzania.
On Monday, September 30, 2013 at the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Energy Expo, the sixth annual International Luncheon will bring together experts from around the world with U.S. private and public sector stakeholders to discuss the latest developments in harnessing East Africa’s considerable geothermal energy resources. Attendees will be able to meet and greet these experts, and explore partnership opportunities. Free with GRC Annual Meeting Registration.
Read More.....
Philippines:
San Miguel to Bid for Leyte Plants' Output (Rappler)
SMC Global Power Holdings Corp., the power arm of conglomerate San Miguel Corp. (SMC), will join the bidding for the rights over Unified Leyte geothermal power plants' output slated in October.
"Yes, we will bid," said Ramon Ang, president and chief operating officer of SMC, when asked for a comment.
SMC Global is the Philippines' largest power trader, currently administering the capacities of the Sual coal plant, San Roque hydropower plant and the Ilijan natural gas power facility.
The company has a total of 2,545 MWe installed capacity, making it one of the largest independent power generation companies in the country.
"Yes, we will bid," said Ramon Ang, president and chief operating officer of SMC, when asked for a comment.
SMC Global is the Philippines' largest power trader, currently administering the capacities of the Sual coal plant, San Roque hydropower plant and the Ilijan natural gas power facility.
The company has a total of 2,545 MWe installed capacity, making it one of the largest independent power generation companies in the country.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Technology:
How it Works: Geothermal Electricity (Al Jazeera English)
A very good video explaining geothermal energy including a call for oil/geothermal co-production.
The deeper you go into the earth's core, the hotter it becomes. Some of this vast energy is already harnessed by geothermal power plants which use steam from heated water deep underground to drive turbines and generate electricity.
(VIDEO 2:16 Minutes)
A very good video explaining geothermal energy including a call for oil/geothermal co-production.
The deeper you go into the earth's core, the hotter it becomes. Some of this vast energy is already harnessed by geothermal power plants which use steam from heated water deep underground to drive turbines and generate electricity.
(VIDEO 2:16 Minutes)
Technology:
Report Quantifies Solar Power Plant Land Use - Geothermal Has Smaller Footprint (IEEE Spectrum)
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) released a report [PDF] last week that aimed to quantify exactly how much room solar power requires. Land use and space issues have long been a point of contention when it comes to renewables, with opponents complaining that the huge spaces required for solar and wind aren't worth the effort.
The report found that the total area requirements for a small photovoltaic (PV) plant is 8.3 acres per MW. For larger PV plants, the total area needed is 7.9 acres per MW, while concentrating solar power plants (CSP) need 10 acres per MW.
Perhaps more relevant is the question of how these land use requirements measure up to other forms of energy. When it comes to renewables, there's no doubt that solar power is far more area-efficient than wind power; an NREL report from several years ago found a total requirement of about 84 acres per MW, a far cry from the 10 or so acres that solar seems to max out at. Geothermal energy might be the best of the bunch, though, in the low single digits. Previous studies cite 1-8 acres per MW.
Read More.....
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) released a report [PDF] last week that aimed to quantify exactly how much room solar power requires. Land use and space issues have long been a point of contention when it comes to renewables, with opponents complaining that the huge spaces required for solar and wind aren't worth the effort.
The report found that the total area requirements for a small photovoltaic (PV) plant is 8.3 acres per MW. For larger PV plants, the total area needed is 7.9 acres per MW, while concentrating solar power plants (CSP) need 10 acres per MW.
Perhaps more relevant is the question of how these land use requirements measure up to other forms of energy. When it comes to renewables, there's no doubt that solar power is far more area-efficient than wind power; an NREL report from several years ago found a total requirement of about 84 acres per MW, a far cry from the 10 or so acres that solar seems to max out at. Geothermal energy might be the best of the bunch, though, in the low single digits. Previous studies cite 1-8 acres per MW.
Read More.....
USA:
Energy Technology Leadership Group (ETLG) Launches (Press Release)
New Washington-Based Advocacy Group to Promote Smarter, Safer Energy Through Educating Legislators and Regulators on the Latest Innovative Technologies
The Energy Technology Leadership Group (ETLG) officially launched today to promote smarter, safer energy through the use of the most innovative technologies across the energy spectrum including fossil, solar, hydro, wind, biofuels, and geothermal.
An increasing number of public/private partnerships and individual companies are developing groundbreaking technologies to assist in the safe provision of reliable and cleaner energy. ETLG and its member companies will help educate members of Congress and various federal agencies and regulators about these timely technological advances, to assist them in drafting more accurate legislation and regulations.
The new leadership group is actively seeking members interested in promoting the importance of energy technology development and implementation. Organizations interested in joining can find further information on the group’s website, www.energytechleaders.com.
Read More.....
New Washington-Based Advocacy Group to Promote Smarter, Safer Energy Through Educating Legislators and Regulators on the Latest Innovative Technologies
An increasing number of public/private partnerships and individual companies are developing groundbreaking technologies to assist in the safe provision of reliable and cleaner energy. ETLG and its member companies will help educate members of Congress and various federal agencies and regulators about these timely technological advances, to assist them in drafting more accurate legislation and regulations.
The new leadership group is actively seeking members interested in promoting the importance of energy technology development and implementation. Organizations interested in joining can find further information on the group’s website, www.energytechleaders.com.
Read More.....
USA, Nevada:
Ram Power Announces 2013 Second Quarter Results (Press Release)
Ram Power, Corp. has announced its operating results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2013.
The achievement of commercial operation of the Phase II expansion at San Jacinto in December 2012 continued to generate strong year-over-year revenue growth for the company of $13.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2013, compared to $7 million for the same period in 2012, an 88% increase.
Significant accomplishments during the quarter and to date include:
The achievement of commercial operation of the Phase II expansion at San Jacinto in December 2012 continued to generate strong year-over-year revenue growth for the company of $13.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2013, compared to $7 million for the same period in 2012, an 88% increase.
Significant accomplishments during the quarter and to date include:
- Ram Power reached an agreement on July 31, 2013, with its project lenders syndicate, led by the International Finance Corporation, to convert its Phase II Credit Facility construction loan for the San Jacinto-Tizate Project to a term loan amortizing over 11 years through 2024.
- Ram Power, together with Sinclair Knight Merz, finalized its resource remediation plan for the San Jacinto-Tizate Project entered into a drilling contract with ThermaSource Inc. to carry out the remediation program drilling, and commenced drilling on July 18, 2013.
- Ram Power has identified a buyer and is currently in discussions to finalize sale of the Geysers project by the end of 2013. Proceeds of the sale, net of selling costs, are expected to be approximately $6.4 million. Ram Power recognized an impairment loss of $16.5 million during the second quarter 2013 to reflect the current expected purchase price net of selling costs.
USA, California:
Geothermal Interest Heats Up in Modoc County (Herald and News)
Modoc County’s geothermal potential has been known for centuries but, aside from some commercial applications in Canby and Surprise Valley, little realized.
Researchers with the University of California Davis’ California Geothermal Energy Collaborative and geology department want to learn more about how the county’s nascent geothermal energy can be used.
As part of the learning process, the UC Davis Geology Department and California Geothermal Energy Collaborative will conduct a public meeting from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 17, at the Alturas City Hall. During the session, Glassley said he and others will discuss what is known about Modoc County’s geothermal resource, provide information on recent research, discuss ways potential resources might be developed and answer audience questions.
Read More.....
Researchers with the University of California Davis’ California Geothermal Energy Collaborative and geology department want to learn more about how the county’s nascent geothermal energy can be used.
As part of the learning process, the UC Davis Geology Department and California Geothermal Energy Collaborative will conduct a public meeting from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 17, at the Alturas City Hall. During the session, Glassley said he and others will discuss what is known about Modoc County’s geothermal resource, provide information on recent research, discuss ways potential resources might be developed and answer audience questions.
Read More.....
Italy:
‘Clean’ Geothermal Energy Plant Sparks Protest in Italy (SmartPlanet.com)
The concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere crossed 400 parts per million earlier that month, a threshold that signified the relentlessness of the march toward climate change. So why was the crowd protesting a plant, called Bagnore 4, that proposes to provide clean, renewable energy?
Geothermal plants in Larderello now power two million households. In 1998, Enel Green Power, which also operates plants in Nevada and is a subsidiary of Italy’s largest power company, built the Bagnore 3 plant at Mount Amiata; the facility provides 20 MWe of power, enough to power 62,000 homes.
The 40 MWe Bagnore 4 plant under construction here promises to save 70,000 metric tonnes (77 tons) of oil equivalent annually, but opponents say that it will pollute the air, produce carbon emissions and increase the concentration of arsenic in the local drinking water.
Read More......
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| Enel Green Power's Bagnore 3 plant |
Geothermal plants in Larderello now power two million households. In 1998, Enel Green Power, which also operates plants in Nevada and is a subsidiary of Italy’s largest power company, built the Bagnore 3 plant at Mount Amiata; the facility provides 20 MWe of power, enough to power 62,000 homes.
The 40 MWe Bagnore 4 plant under construction here promises to save 70,000 metric tonnes (77 tons) of oil equivalent annually, but opponents say that it will pollute the air, produce carbon emissions and increase the concentration of arsenic in the local drinking water.
Read More......
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Chile:
Chile Looks to Launch Geothermal Insurance, Funding in 2014 (BNamericas)
Chile next year aims to launch a failed drilling insurance program alongside geothermal funding in 2014, the energy ministry's renewable energy head Carlos BarrÃa told BNamericas on the sidelines of the 3rd BNamericas Hydro Power & Renewable Energy Summit in Santiago Wednesday.
"Any geothermal project in the world runs the risk of not being successful - of not finding the quantities of vapor that were expected. But in Chile it's even harder because we are just starting out and don't have much reserve information," BarrÃa said.
The Chilean government is working with IDB and the World Bank to create failed drilling insurance to help alleviate some of the risk of exploratory drilling. The government is also asking US$30mn-35mn from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF) to help with costs.
If Chile is successful in launching drilling insurance and securing CTF funding, BarrÃa has high expectations.
"By 2025-30 we hope to have 1,000-1,500MW of geothermal in Chile," he said. "In the next decade we expect to enter the world's top 10 in terms of geothermal."
Read More......
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
"Any geothermal project in the world runs the risk of not being successful - of not finding the quantities of vapor that were expected. But in Chile it's even harder because we are just starting out and don't have much reserve information," BarrÃa said.
The Chilean government is working with IDB and the World Bank to create failed drilling insurance to help alleviate some of the risk of exploratory drilling. The government is also asking US$30mn-35mn from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF) to help with costs.
If Chile is successful in launching drilling insurance and securing CTF funding, BarrÃa has high expectations.
"By 2025-30 we hope to have 1,000-1,500MW of geothermal in Chile," he said. "In the next decade we expect to enter the world's top 10 in terms of geothermal."
Read More......
Global:
GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Geothermal Energy Expo
MGM Grand Resort & Casino - $89 - Reserve your room today and save over $60 a Night! (Rooms at the Signature at MGM Grand are sold out)
More information..........
The Special Room Rate Offer For Weekday Nights Has Been Extended to August 16
More information..........
Climate Change:
2012: The Warmest Year on Record in the U.S. (kcet.org)
Another reminder of why getting off fossil fuels is so important: The American Meteorological Society (AMS) has released an annual report on the world's changing climate, and the news is just about as bad as you might expect. 2012 was one of the ten warmest years on record worldwide, and the warmest year on record in the United States.
The report, published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on it's climate.gov website, has been produced annually for the last 23 years, each year's news seemingly more ominous than the year previous.
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| (Courtesy NOAA Climate.gov) |
The report, published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on it's climate.gov website, has been produced annually for the last 23 years, each year's news seemingly more ominous than the year previous.
Read More.....
Global:
Ormat Technologies Reports 2013 Second Quarter Results (Press Release)
Operational highlights and recent developments:
Commenting on the results, Dita Bronicki, Chief Executive Officer of Ormat, stated: "In the electricity segment, our focus on prudently expanding generation capacity is paying off as reflected in the results. The addition of Olkaria combined with the impact of McGinness Hills, which commenced operations in July 2012, drove a 12.9% year-over-year increase in generation capacity in the quarter. As we increase capacity, we are also improving operational efficiencies at our plants attaining a gross margin of 33.1%.”
GRC Company member Ormat Technologies will be at booth #301 at the GEA Expo run in conjunction with the GRC Annual Meeting, Sept. 29-Oct. 2 at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, Nevada.
Read More.....
- Increased electricity generation by 12.9% to 1.1 million MWh, driven by new capacity coming on line at Olkaria III Plant 2 in Kenya and McGinness Hills in Nevada.
- Exceeded the expected capacity in both McGinness Hills and Olkaria III complex which are contributing additional 6 MW, bringing the total generating capacity to 595 MW.
- Accelerated the handover of the 22 MW Momotombo power plant in Nicaragua that was scheduled for mid- 2014.
- Signed the Sarulla project agreements and secured our role as a supplier for approximately $254 million of equipment;
- Signed a 20-year PPA with Southern California Public Power Authority (SCPPA) for our 16 MW Wild Rose project in Nevada
Commenting on the results, Dita Bronicki, Chief Executive Officer of Ormat, stated: "In the electricity segment, our focus on prudently expanding generation capacity is paying off as reflected in the results. The addition of Olkaria combined with the impact of McGinness Hills, which commenced operations in July 2012, drove a 12.9% year-over-year increase in generation capacity in the quarter. As we increase capacity, we are also improving operational efficiencies at our plants attaining a gross margin of 33.1%.”
GRC Company member Ormat Technologies will be at booth #301 at the GEA Expo run in conjunction with the GRC Annual Meeting, Sept. 29-Oct. 2 at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, Nevada.
Read More.....
India:
India's Underground Power Potential - Vision or Reality? (Business Green)
Geothermal energy has a long history in Asia, with the first drill holes being dug in Java in 1926, but until recently it has been under-exploited. Recent developments aim to change this.
In particular, India, a country with vast and expanding energy needs, is looking at the possibilities that geothermal energy can unlock. For India, geothermal is an ideal energy source - low carbon, reliable and proven technology. Many Indian companies have experience with geothermal installations in other countries, such as Tata's recent work at Sorik Marapi in Indonesia.
The country also has significant geothermal resource. Estimates range up to 10 GW, which is significantly more than the current combined installed capacity of the three largest geothermal users, the US, Indonesia and the Philippines.
Read More......
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| (Courtesy CIA.gov) |
In particular, India, a country with vast and expanding energy needs, is looking at the possibilities that geothermal energy can unlock. For India, geothermal is an ideal energy source - low carbon, reliable and proven technology. Many Indian companies have experience with geothermal installations in other countries, such as Tata's recent work at Sorik Marapi in Indonesia.
The country also has significant geothermal resource. Estimates range up to 10 GW, which is significantly more than the current combined installed capacity of the three largest geothermal users, the US, Indonesia and the Philippines.
Read More......
Slovakia, Peru:
Eurasian Minerals Sells Geothermal Energy Assets in Slovakia and Peru (Stockhouse)
Eurasian Minerals Inc. announced the sale of its geothermal energy assets in Slovakia and Peru to privately-held Starlight Geothermal Ltd. (SGL).
In Slovakia the assets include the Ziar Basin of west-central Slovakia and the Pannonian Basin in the southeastern corner of the country. The company's geothermal portfolio in Slovakia totaled five licenses covering approximately 320 square kilometers.
Eurasian Minerals also assessed opportunities in Latin America that led to the acquisition of four geothermal licenses totaling 328 square kilometers in Peru, including the Tambochaca, Pumahuiri, Sengata, and Coropuna projects. These licenses occur in prospective regions of Peru's Western and Eastern Cordillera that include geologically recent volcanism and occurrences of thermal springs and fumaroles.
Read More......
Eurasian Minerals Inc. announced the sale of its geothermal energy assets in Slovakia and Peru to privately-held Starlight Geothermal Ltd. (SGL).
In Slovakia the assets include the Ziar Basin of west-central Slovakia and the Pannonian Basin in the southeastern corner of the country. The company's geothermal portfolio in Slovakia totaled five licenses covering approximately 320 square kilometers.
Eurasian Minerals also assessed opportunities in Latin America that led to the acquisition of four geothermal licenses totaling 328 square kilometers in Peru, including the Tambochaca, Pumahuiri, Sengata, and Coropuna projects. These licenses occur in prospective regions of Peru's Western and Eastern Cordillera that include geologically recent volcanism and occurrences of thermal springs and fumaroles.
Read More......
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Global:
Global Geothermal News Receives Another Award
This website has won an award for the second consecutive year in a prestigious communications competition.
Global Geothermal News won an Award of Excellence in the Green Electronic Media section of the APEX 2013 awards.
APEX 2013, is the Twenty-fifth annual awards program recognizing excellence in publications work by professional communicators. APEX Awards are based on excellence in graphic design, editorial content and the ability to achieve overall communications excellence. APEX Grand Awards honor the outstanding works in each main category, while APEX Awards of Excellence recognize exceptional entries in each of the individual categories.
Subscribe now to get your daily geothermal news from a trusted source.......
Global Geothermal News won an Award of Excellence in the Green Electronic Media section of the APEX 2013 awards.
APEX 2013, is the Twenty-fifth annual awards program recognizing excellence in publications work by professional communicators. APEX Awards are based on excellence in graphic design, editorial content and the ability to achieve overall communications excellence. APEX Grand Awards honor the outstanding works in each main category, while APEX Awards of Excellence recognize exceptional entries in each of the individual categories.
Subscribe now to get your daily geothermal news from a trusted source.......
USA:
EPA Screens More Than 66,000 Contaminated Sites for Renewable Energy Potential (Directions Magazine)
The updated screening provides insight into the significant potential for renewable energy generation on contaminated lands and landfills nationwide. For geothermal energy alone, EPA identified over 355 Hydrothermal sites (including 6 in the Las Vegas area where the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Expo is taking place Sept. 29-Oct.2), 1,616 Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) sites and 57,202 Geothermal heat pump contaminated sites.
RE-Powering Mapper Fact Sheets: Geothermal (PDF)
The total geothermal technical potential for EPA tracked sites is more than 7,000 MW. Read More......
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| Portion of the RE-Mapper Tool for Potential Hydrothermal Sites in the South West USA |
Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) updated its RE-Powering Mapping and Screening Tool, which will now provide preliminary screening results for renewable energy potential at 66,000, up from 24,000, contaminated lands, landfills, and mine sites across the country. The RE-Powering America’s Land Initiative, started by EPA in 2008, encourages development of renewable energy on potentially contaminated land, landfills and mine sites when it is aligned with the community’s vision for the site.
The updated screening provides insight into the significant potential for renewable energy generation on contaminated lands and landfills nationwide. For geothermal energy alone, EPA identified over 355 Hydrothermal sites (including 6 in the Las Vegas area where the GRC Annual Meeting & GEA Expo is taking place Sept. 29-Oct.2), 1,616 Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) sites and 57,202 Geothermal heat pump contaminated sites.
RE-Powering Mapper Fact Sheets: Geothermal (PDF)
The total geothermal technical potential for EPA tracked sites is more than 7,000 MW. Read More......
Monday, August 5, 2013
Uganda:
AAE Rejects Mutimba’s Claims for $60m Slice of Ugandan Geothermal Project (NewNet)
U.S. infrastructure firm AAE Systems has rejected allegations made by Ahmed Mutimba and his company Apex Petroleum Uganda following claims that Apex was owed $60m for services relating to a $1.2bn geothermal project.
In a statement, AAE rejected Mutimba’s claims and denied he was responsible for the procurement of the project or entitled to a fee.
Read More.....
U.S. infrastructure firm AAE Systems has rejected allegations made by Ahmed Mutimba and his company Apex Petroleum Uganda following claims that Apex was owed $60m for services relating to a $1.2bn geothermal project.
In a statement, AAE rejected Mutimba’s claims and denied he was responsible for the procurement of the project or entitled to a fee.
Read More.....
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