Ormat gets PPA for Hawaiian Puna Geothermal Increased Capacity

Ormat gets PPA for Expanded Geothermal Capacity at Puna, Hawaii

Ormat Technologies, a leading renewable energy company, has achieved a significant milestone in its mission to provide clean and sustainable power to Hawaii's Big Island. Recently, the Hawai’i Public Utilities Commission (HPUC) granted approval for amendments to the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), enabling Ormat's subsidiary, Puna Geothermal Venture (PGV), to deliver an additional 8 MW of geothermal energy to the region. This expansion brings the total geothermal capacity at Puna to 46 MW, reinforcing Hawaii's commitment to renewable energy initiatives.

The approval from HPUC comes on the heels of the successful completion of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for PGV's operations in Puna, underscoring the company's dedication to environmental stewardship and compliance with regulatory standards.

One of the key highlights of the newly revised PPA is the consolidation of two existing agreements into one, extending the contract term through 2052. This move provides stability and predictability for both PGV and Hawaiian Electric, with fixed energy rates guaranteed irrespective of fluctuations in oil prices. Such assurances ensure a steady revenue stream for PGV while offering ratepayers consistent energy costs over the duration of the contract.

As part of the agreement, older generation units will be retired and replaced with three advanced and efficient generating units from Ormat. These state-of-the-art units are poised to enhance operational efficiency and reliability, with a projected operational timeline of three years post-HPUC approval.

Doron Blachar, CEO of Ormat Technologies, expressed satisfaction with the extended partnership with Hawaiian Electric, affirming Ormat's commitment to supporting Hawaii's clean energy goals. He emphasized the importance of clean energy and stated, “Ormat is pleased to extend and expand our partnership with Hawaiian Electric and continue demonstrating our ability to support the state’s energy needs."

Jim Alberts, senior vice president and chief operations officer of Hawaiian Electric, underscored the significance of PGV's role in providing firm power for over three decades. He highlighted the positive impact of the new contract on lowering and stabilizing rates for customers while reducing reliance on fossil fuels, furthering Hawaii's transition towards a sustainable energy future.

With the amendments to the PPA, PGV reaffirms its dedication to geothermal development in the region, contributing to Hawaii's broader renewable portfolio mandate goals. The expansion of geothermal capacity not only strengthens the state's energy resilience but also underscores its commitment to combating climate change through the adoption of clean and renewable energy solutions.

Ormat's achievement in securing the expanded PPA reflects its continued leadership in the renewable energy sector and its commitment to driving sustainable development in Hawaii and beyond.

Source: Robert Buluma, alphaxioms@gmail.com

Comments

Hot Topics

Next-Generation Geothermal: Technologies, Simplified Policy, Financing, and Value Chain

Geothermal energy is poised to play a transformative role in the global shift toward renewable energy and sustainable development . By: Robert Buluma As the world races to meet ambitious decarbonization targets, the untapped heat beneath our feet offers a reliable, baseload power source that can complement intermittent wind and solar generation. However, unlocking this potential at scale requires not only cutting-edge geothermal future technologies but also streamlined policy frameworks , innovative financing models , and a reimagined geothermal value chain that reduces costs and accelerates deployment. This article explores the next generation of geothermal innovations technologies that are still on the drawing board alongside strategies to simplify regulations, attract capital, and integrate the value chain into fewer, disruptive steps. Throughout, we’ll highlight key aspects such as enhanced geothermal systems, closed‑loop geothermal, AI-driven exploration, poli...

Sanko Energi Announces Record-Breaking Discovery: Turkey’s Hottest Geothermal Production Well at 308°C

In a major breakthrough for renewable energy in Turkey, Sanko Energi has announced the successful discovery of what is now being hailed as Turkey’s hottest geothermal production well reaching an astonishing 308 degrees Celsius. By: Robert Buluma This record-setting temperature not only underlines the immense potential of Turkey’s geothermal resources but also marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s sustainable energy journey. A New Chapter in Turkey’s Geothermal Revolution Turkey has long been recognized as a geothermal powerhouse, thanks to its unique geological structure and abundant geothermal reservoirs. The discovery of a production well reaching 308°C by Sanko Energi pushes the limits of what was previously thought possible and signals a promising future for the country’s renewable energy sector. Key Highlights of the Discovery: Unprecedented Temperature: At 308°C, this well sets a new record for geothermal production in Turkey. Enhanced Production Potential: ...

Driving the Heat Transition in Hanover with Eavor Technology

A Climate-Neutral Future for Hanover’s District Heating By: Robert Buluma The city of Hanover is taking a bold step toward a climate-friendly future with the implementation of an innovative geothermal energy project by Eavor in collaboration with enercity. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cover 15 to 20 percent of Hanover’s district heating needs using cutting-edge Eavor-Loop™ technology, significantly reducing reliance on coal-fired power plants and advancing the city's heat transition goals. The Hanover Geothermal Project: A Game Changer for District Heating Eavor is developing two Eavor-Loops™ in the Lahe district, each with a heat output of 15 MW. Once operational, this system will generate up to 250 million kilowatt hours of geothermal energy annually. This is equivalent to supplying heat for approximately 20,000 homes within the enercity supply area, ensuring a stable, renewable, and climate-neutral energy source. Replacing Coal with Sustainable Geothermal Energ...

JOGMEC Calls for Proposals on Microseismic Technology for Geothermal Exploration

Advancing Geothermal Exploration Through Passive Seismic Techniques By: Robert Buluma The Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) has launched a competitive tender inviting qualified firms to contribute to a groundbreaking technological development project. This initiative focuses on refining microseismic array technology to enhance geothermal exploration, providing a cost-effective and adaptable method for identifying potential geothermal resources. Interested applicants have until April 21, 2025 , to submit their proposals. This initiative is part of JOGMEC’s ongoing commitment to advancing geothermal energy through innovative exploration methods. The project, titled "High-Efficiency High-Density Geothermal Exploration Technology – Development of a New Exploration Method Using Elastic Waves," seeks to optimize the detection of geothermal reservoirs by leveraging passive seismic sources. The Role of Microseismic Technology in Geothermal Exploration Tr...

Geothermal Energy: The Rising Powerhouse in the Clean Energy Transition

The global energy sector is undergoing a radical transformation, with clean, reliable, and sustainable power sources taking center stage. By: Robert Buluma Among these, geothermal energy stands out as an underutilized but highly promising resource that offers baseload power generation with near-zero carbon emissions. The rise of advanced geothermal technologies has attracted significant investments, especially from big tech companies seeking sustainable energy solutions for their energy-intensive AI data centers. One such company making headlines is XGS Energy, a geothermal startup that recently closed a $13 million equity bridge round and is preparing for a $60 million to $100 million growth round. This article explores how XGS Energy and other enhanced geothermal system (EGS) startups are revolutionizing the sector, unlocking geothermal energy potential beyond traditional hotspots, and why investors and technology giants are betting big on this clean energy rev...

Geothermal Projects In Africa, Countries Overview

Geothermal Projects in Africa: Country-wise Overview By : Robert Buluma Africa is increasingly turning to geothermal energy as a sustainable solution to meet its growing electricity demands. With abundant geothermal resources spread across the continent, several countries have embarked on ambitious projects to harness this clean and renewable energy source. Let's delve into the geothermal projects in various African countries, highlighting key players and prospects. Algeria Algeria is exploring its geothermal potential, particularly in the northern regions. Although in the early stages, initiatives are underway to assess feasibility and potential locations for geothermal power plants. Burundi Burundi has shown interest in developing its geothermal resources, primarily in the northwest region near Lake Tanganyika. The government is actively seeking partnerships with international firms to kickstart exploration and development efforts. Comoros The Comoros Islands are situated ...

Fervo Energy’s Potential IPO: A Turning Point for Geothermal Energy

The geothermal energy sector is witnessing a significant transformation , and Fervo Energy is at the forefront of this change. By: Robert Buluma The innovative geothermal startup, known for integrating oil and gas drilling techniques into geothermal energy production, is considering an initial public offering (IPO) as early as next year. This potential move comes at a time when energy demand from data centers is skyrocketing , driven by artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and the ever-expanding digital economy. The global push for clean, reliable, and scalable energy solutions is creating an unprecedented opportunity for geothermal energy to emerge as a mainstream renewable power source . With substantial financial backing, strategic partnerships, and groundbreaking technology , Fervo Energy is reshaping how geothermal energy is developed and deployed. This article explores Fervo’s journey, its technological innovations, the impact of its IPO on the clean energy market...

Mori Geothermal Binary Power Plant A Venture of Ormat, SFE Engineering Corp and Tokyo Century Corporation:

In a significant stride towards sustainable energy, the Mori Binary Power Plant stands tall as a testament to innovation and collaboration. Jointly developed by JFE Engineering Corp. and Tokyo Century Corporation, this cutting-edge geothermal facility is a result of a fruitful partnership with Ormat Technologies. The Mori Binary Power Plant now proudly claims its spot as the fourth geothermal power plant in Japan, generating a robust 2 megawatts (MW) of clean power. ### Harnessing the Earth's Heat Geothermal power harnesses the Earth's natural heat to generate electricity, and the Mori Binary Power Plant takes this concept to new heights. Situated in a region blessed with geothermal potential, this plant taps into the Earth's internal heat through advanced binary cycle technology. The collaboration with Ormat Technologies, a renowned player in the geothermal energy sector, ensures that the Mori Binary Power Plant employs state-of-the-art solutions for maximum efficiency. ##...

XGS Energy Acquires Capuono Engineering Geothermal Service Company To Bolster Its Grip

XGS Energy Acquires Premier Geothermal Drilling Services Company Capuano Engineering By: Robert Buluma In a bold move set to redefine the geothermal energy landscape, XGS Energy has announced the acquisition of Capuano Engineering, a leading global player in geothermal drilling and completion services. This strategic acquisition positions XGS Energy to expand its innovative geothermal technology on a global scale, leveraging Capuano Engineering's extensive expertise and experience in the field. A Leap Forward in Geothermal Technology XGS Energy , based in Palo Alto, California, has been at the forefront of geothermal energy innovation. Their proprietary Thermal Reach Enhancement (TRE) system uses materials that are 50 times more thermally conductive than rock, enabling high-efficiency closed-loop geothermal systems. Unlike conventional geothermal technologies that require specific geological conditions and access to water reservoirs, XGS’s technology can be deployed anywhere, offe...

Ignis Partners with Procubex to Advance Geothermal Exploration in Türkiye

Ignis Awards Drilling Consultancy Contract to Procubex for Geothermal Exploration in Türkiye By: Robert Buluma The global geothermal industry has marked yet another milestone as Ignis awards a prestigious drilling consultancy contract to Procubex for an upcoming deep wells campaign in Türkiye. This contract represents a significant step in Ignis' commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and expanding its geothermal energy portfolio. Procubex: A Leading Geothermal Consultancy Firm Procubex is a renowned engineering consultancy firm specializing in geothermal energy exploration, feasibility studies, project management, drilling operations, and well completion services. With a strong presence across Europe and Türkiye, Procubex has built a reputation for delivering cutting-edge geothermal energy solutions that drive efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Strategic Partnership for Geothermal Development Under this contract, Procubex will provide critical support in managin...

Alphaxioms Geothermal News and Related Research Globally

Search This Blog