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Showing posts from February 11, 2024

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Estonia Drills Three Towns for Open-Loop Geothermal Heating Development

Estonia Drills Into Its Own Backyard: Why Three Small Towns Could Shape the Future of Baltic Heating Estonia has started looking for heat under its own soil. In October 2026, the Geological Survey of Estonia began exploratory drilling at three locations in the south of the country to find out whether open-loop geothermal energy pilot plants can work there, according to CEENERGYNEWS, citing the Estonian Ministry of Climate. Work starts in Rõuge, then moves to Põlva municipality and Tõrva. The campaign is part of a research programme called AVATAR. On paper, this is a small story: a few boreholes, some pumping tests and a careful statement from a state agency. It is also one more step in a deliberate effort by a small Baltic country to treat geothermal energy as a real option for heating whole communities, and not only single houses. Estonia has long winters, energy security is a political issue there, and moving away from fossil fuels is now fixed policy. So the drilling matters more th...

Geothermal Decade , Companies Strategies to Unravel Geothermal

Unveiling the Geothermal Decade: Companies Pioneering Innovation and Collaboration In the race towards a sustainable future, the Geothermal sector stands out as a beacon of hope, offering clean, renewable energy solutions. As we embark on what many are calling the "Geothermal decade," companies around the globe are unveiling strategies that promise to reshape the energy landscape. Let's delve into the innovative approaches and collaborative efforts driving this transformation. Primeval Geothermal Solutions:** Primeval's agnostic approach to solving Geothermal problems exemplifies adaptability and innovation in the industry. By focusing on versatile solutions, they pave the way for advancements in Geothermal technology. Google and Project Innerspace Collaboration: Teaming up with Project Innerspace, Google ventures into uncharted territory, leveraging cutting-edge technology to unlock the potential of Geothermal energy. This collaboration promises groundbreaking discov...

Fraunhofer IEG to Heat and Cool Lohrheide Stadium in Germany Using Geothermal

 "Harnessing Geothermal Energy: A Game-Changer for Sustainable Stadium Renovation" By :  Robert Buluma As cities around the world strive for more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions, the recent drilling initiation for geothermal systems at the Lohrheide Stadium in Bochum marks a significant step towards this goal. The city's decision to incorporate near-surface geothermal energy into the renovation and modernization of the stadium demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to energy usage and sustainability. The project, spearheaded by the city of Bochum in collaboration with Fraunhofer IEG, entails the installation of a geothermal probe field with 38 geothermal probes and two heat pumps. This innovative system is designed to harness geothermal heat from the ground during winter months for heating the stadium, while in summer, the excess heat is returned to the ground for cooling purposes. This cyclic process not only ensures efficient energy utilization but ...

US and Iceland Forge Geothermal Energy Partnership

U.S. and Iceland Forge Renewable Energy Partnership: A Geothermal Odyssey By : Robert Buluma In a landmark move towards bolstering renewable energy collaborations, the United States Secretary of Energy, Jennifer Granholm, recently engaged in bilateral discussions with her Icelandic counterpart, Gudlaugur Thór Thórdarson. The talks, centered around the potential for collaboration in renewable energy initiatives, particularly in the realm of geothermal energy, underscored a shared commitment to sustainable development and combating climate change. The meeting, which took place against the backdrop of the stunning Icelandic landscape, included a visit to the Hellsheidi Geothermal Power Plant—a testament to Iceland's pioneering efforts in harnessing geothermal energy for power generation and heating. With Iceland already boasting a remarkable achievement of powering the entire nation with 100% renewable energy, including heating derived predominantly from geothermal sources, the discus...

Status of Geothermal In Poland

 Poland’s Geothermal Energy Revolution: A Promising Path to Diversification By  Robert Buluma In recent years, Poland has been navigating a significant transformation in its energy landscape. As the nation grapples with the imperative to reduce reliance on coal and combat climate change, a burgeoning interest in renewable energy sources has emerged. Among these sources, geothermal energy stands out as a promising avenue for diversification and sustainability. Embracing Renewables and Nuclear: Poland’s Energy Strategy Against the backdrop of Europe's energy crisis and geopolitical tensions, Poland has underscored the importance of diversifying its energy mix. While renewables and nuclear energy have emerged as key pillars of Poland’s energy strategy, recent developments suggest a growing recognition of the potential of geothermal energy.  Geothermal Progress in Poland Poland’s geothermal energy capacity has been steadily increasing, with the country currently boasting 129 ...

Geothermal Made Familiar, An Introduction

Unearthing the Power Beneath: Exploring Geothermal Energy Geothermal energy, a term derived from the Greek words "geo" meaning earth and "therme" meaning heat, taps into the vast reservoirs of thermal energy stored beneath our planet's surface. Unlike other renewable energy sources like wind and solar, geothermal energy harnesses the natural heat emanating from the Earth's core, offering a consistent and reliable source of power. From its origins to its modern applications, let's delve into the depths of geothermal energy and uncover its various forms, potential, and emerging trends. Understanding Geothermal Energy: At the core of geothermal energy lies the Earth's internal heat, a result of radioactive decay and residual heat from the planet's formation. This heat permeates through the Earth's crust, manifesting in various forms such as volcanic activity, geysers, hot springs, and even magma chambers. Geothermal energy technologies capitaliz...

Innargi Aarus Geothermal Plant Will be Magnanimous in EU

Unlocking the Green Potential: Geothermal Project in Aarhus Enters Second Test Phase In a landmark move towards decarbonizing heating systems, Aarhus, Denmark, is spearheading the way forward with its ambitious geothermal project. Initiated by Innargi A/S in collaboration with Kredsløb, the project aims to revolutionize district heating by harnessing the power of geothermal energy. The recent announcement of the project entering its second test phase marks a significant milestone in Aarhus's journey towards sustainability. The initial test drilling at the Port of Aarhus has been successfully concluded, paving the way for further exploration at Skejbyvej. This phase includes additional wells and a plant designed to capture geothermal heat and transfer it to the district heating network, setting the stage for a greener future. Lars Heineke, Project Director at Innargi, expressed satisfaction with the progress, emphasizing the importance of the testing phase in shaping the final desig...

Innargi Opens new office in Poznan,Poland

 Innargi Expands Geothermal Reach: Poland Office Opens for Poznan Project By Robert Buluma  In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable heating solutions, Innargi is extending its geothermal expertise to Poland with the opening of its new office in Poznan. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the company's mission to revolutionize district heating systems through the power of geothermal energy. The Poznan project represents a key initiative in this endeavor, with plans underway to make it the first district in Poland to supply heat from geothermal sources. Currently in the development phase, the project holds immense promise for reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy usage in the region. Geothermal energy, derived from the heat of the earth's core, offers a clean and renewable alternative to traditional heating methods. By tapping into this natural resource, cities like Poznan have the opportunity to significantly reduce their reliance on fossil f...

Geothermal Energy To Decarbonize British Museum

Exploring the Potential of Mine Water: A Sustainable Heating Solution In the heart of Wakefield, nestled within the remnants of the coal mining industry, lies a beacon of innovation – the National Coal Mining Museum. While it serves as a testament to the region's rich mining heritage, it is also paving the way for a sustainable future through an ingenious use of mine water. Recently, the museum has embarked on a groundbreaking project to harness the latent energy stored within flooded mine shafts. Director Shaun McLoughlin, a veteran of the mining industry, envisions a future where this abundant resource can be utilized to heat not only the museum itself but also nearby homes and even HMP New Hall. The concept is simple yet profound: tapping into the geothermal energy naturally present in mine water to provide heat and power. This approach not only offers a renewable alternative to traditional heating methods but also contributes to efforts to reduce carbon emissions. At the heart ...

US DOE to First Track Romanian Geothermal Feasibility Study

Advancing Energy Solutions: ELCEN's Geothermal Agreement in Washington In a significant stride towards sustainable energy solutions, ELCEN, under the leadership of Gen byeral Director Claudiu Crețu, has inked a pivotal agreement in Washington. The deal focuses on conducting a feasibility study for harnessing geothermal energy to power the district heating system in Bucharest. This endeavor, backed by the Department of Energy (DOE), marks a crucial milestone in Romania's energy landscape. The announcement was made by Minister of Energy, Sebastian Burduja, who highlighted the collaborative efforts between Romania and the United States in advancing energy initiatives. With Romania emerging as a respected entity in the global energy arena, partnerships like these underscore its commitment to innovation and progress. The agreement signifies more than just a technical study; it embodies a shared vision for sustainable development and economic prosperity. By exploring geothermal energ...

Geothermal Collegiate Competition under US DOE Announces Winners

 Exploring the Future of Geothermal Energy: The Geothermal Collegiate Competition The Geothermal Collegiate Competition (GCC), an initiative by the U.S. Department of Energy's Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO), has been paving the way for innovative geothermal solutions while fostering the talents of students from collegiate institutions across the nation. This annual competition not only offers cash prizes but also provides invaluable industry experience, networking opportunities, and a chance to contribute to the clean energy transition. Empowering Students for a Sustainable Future The GCC serves as a platform for students from diverse academic backgrounds to engage with real-world challenges in the renewable energy sector. Whether majoring in engineering, economics, environmental science, or any other field, students are encouraged to participate and apply their skills to develop geothermal solutions. This hands-on experience not only enriches their academic journey but also ...

Indonesia Industry Leaders Call For Higher Geothermal Electricity Tariffs

Industry Leaders Advocate for Increased Geothermal Electricity Tariff in Indonesia In Indonesia, the push for renewable energy sources has gained momentum in recent years as the nation grapples with the challenges of climate change and energy security. Geothermal energy, in particular, has emerged as a promising solution due to the country's abundant volcanic activity. However, despite its potential, the geothermal sector faces hurdles, including the need for a more favorable tariff structure to encourage investment and development. Industry leaders are now calling for higher geothermal electricity tariffs to stimulate growth in this crucial sector. Current Scenario: Indonesia is one of the world's most geothermally active regions, with vast potential for geothermal energy production. However, despite this advantage, geothermal power accounts for only a small fraction of the country's total electricity generation. One of the primary reasons for this is the existing tariff s...

Sage Raises $17 Million For Worlds First Geopressurized Geothermal System

 Sage Geosystems Raises $17 Million in Series A, Announces World’s First Commercial Geopressured Geothermal System (GGS) Facility February 15, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time Houston, TX—In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable energy solutions, Sage Geosystems proudly announced today the successful closure of its Series A funding, securing an impressive $17 million. This landmark achievement was led by Chesapeake Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: CHK) alongside notable technology investor Arch Meredith, Helium-3 Ventures, and with continued support from existing investors Virya, LLC, Nabors Industries Ltd., and Ignis Energy Inc. The funds from this Series A round will be instrumental in realizing the vision of Sage Geosystems: the creation of the world’s first commercial Geopressured Geothermal System (GGS) facility. Named EarthStore™, this innovative facility will harness the power of pressurized water stored deep underground to generate renewable energy. The 3MW EarthStore™ fa...

Tunisia Sets a Record in Geothermal Tomatoes Export

 Boosting Agriculture: Gabes Sets a Record in Geothermal Crop Export In recent years, Gabes, a governorate in Tunisia, has been making significant strides in agricultural production, particularly in the cultivation of early geothermal crops. The latest data reveals a remarkable increase in the export of these crops, indicating a promising future for the region's agricultural sector. Expanding Export Figures: As of late January 2024, Gabes has exported a staggering 8,251 tonnes of early geothermal crops, surpassing the previous season's export of 6,000 tonnes. This substantial increase underscores the governorate's growing prominence as a hub for agricultural innovation and production. Optimal Conditions for Growth: According to officials from the Regional Authority for Commissariat for Agricultural Development (CRDA), the export of agricultural produce, particularly tomatoes, is thriving under optimum conditions. This success can be attributed to the cultivation practices e...

Ecopetrol Explores Geothermal Energy in Caldas, Colombia

Exploring the Potential of Geothermal Energy in Caldas, Colombia In recent years, the world has been witnessing a shift towards renewable energy sources, and Colombia is no exception. With its rich natural resources and commitment to sustainable development, the country is embarking on an exciting journey to harness geothermal energy, particularly in the region of Caldas. Geothermal energy, derived from the Earth's internal heat, has long been recognized as a clean and reliable source of power. Unlike fossil fuels, geothermal energy produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions and offers a consistent power supply, making it an attractive option for sustainable energy generation. Caldas, situated in the heart of Colombia's coffee region, is poised to become a hub for geothermal energy exploration. Recent advancements in technology and partnerships between government agencies and private companies have paved the way for significant investments in geothermal projects in the region. O...

Launch Of Primeval Energy, A Geothermal Solutions Company

Revolutionizing Energy Transition: Primeval Energy's Geothermal Solutions In the midst of a global  push towards sustainable energy sources, one company stands out as a beacon of innovation and progress: Primeval Energy. Led by a team of seasoned experts including Andy Wood, Lain Pittman, Phillip Boland, Howard Tolman, and Tania Zepeda Luna, Primeval Energy is at the forefront of advancing geothermal solutions to drive the energy transition forward. Unveiling the Power of Geothermal Energy Geothermal energy, often overlooked in favor of more conventional sources, holds immense potential as a clean, renewable, and reliable energy alternative. Primeval Energy recognizes this potential and is dedicated to unlocking the power of geothermal resources in a way that is both efficient and sustainable. A Versatile Team Leading the Charge With decades of combined experience in the energy sector, the team at Primeval Energy brings a wealth of expertise to the table. From geology and engineeri...

Icelands 5th Geothermal Conference Highlights

Unveiling the Future of Sustainable Energy: Highlights to the 5th Iceland Geothermal Conference (IGC2024) to be conducted in May In the heart of Reykjavík, Iceland, the 5th Iceland Geothermal Conference (IGC2024) to be convened, igniting discussions and collaborations aimed at reshaping our energy landscape towards a sustainable future. Hosted by the Iceland Renewable Energy Cluster, this conference will serve as a nexus for industry leaders, innovators, and visionaries to explore the boundless potential of geothermal energy in addressing global challenges such as climate change, energy security, and economic prosperity. Climate Resilience: One of the key themes to be echoed throughout the conference is the pivotal role of geothermal energy in enhancing climate resilience. Delegates will delve into how geothermal resources offer a renewable alternative to fossil fuels, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring a stable energy supply. By harnessing the earth's nat...

Veituru Explores Geothermal Energy Potential In Alfatanese

Exploring Geothermal Energy Potential in Álftanes: A Step Towards Sustainable Heating Veitur, the leading provider of heating services in the capital region, is embarking on a new venture to explore geothermal energy potential in Álftanes. With the increasing demand for hot water in Reykjavík and its surrounding areas due to population growth and urban development, Veitur is proactively seeking additional geothermal resources to enhance the capacity and reliability of its heating system. The decision to investigate Álftanes stems from indications of untapped geothermal resources suitable for residential heating. Veitur aims to conduct drilling operations in nine exploration wells in the area, with each borehole reaching depths of 60 to 100 meters. These wells will be drilled over a span of one to three days each, utilizing lightweight drilling rigs to minimize disruption and ensure safety. The ongoing efforts to diversify geothermal resources align with Veitur's commitment to susta...

US DOE Invests $60 M Fervo, Chevron New Energies and Mazama Energy Geothermal Projects

Biden Administration Invests $60M in Geothermal Energy Projects In a significant move towards combating climate change and promoting renewable energy, the Biden administration has allocated $60 million towards three geothermal energy pilot projects. Geothermal energy harnesses the heat from the Earth's core, providing a carbon-free source of power that doesn't emit greenhouse gases. This investment aims to demonstrate the viability of utilizing geothermal energy on a larger scale, paving the way for cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions. Details of the Projects: The three projects selected to receive federal funding are diverse in location and scope. The Chevron New Energies project in California, the Fervo Energy project in Utah, and the Mazama Energy project in Oregon will each play a crucial role in showcasing the effectiveness of geothermal energy from man-made reservoirs. These initiatives are not only aimed at generating electricity but also at providing heat for ...

CGG Ground breaking Offshore Geothermal White Paper

Unlocking the Power of Offshore Geothermal Energy: CGG's Groundbreaking White Paper In a world where the quest for sustainable energy sources is more critical than ever, CGG, a leading global technology and Earth science company, has unveiled a groundbreaking white paper shedding light on the vast potential of offshore geothermal energy. This renewable resource, harnessed from the magmatically active ocean floor spreading centers and flooded rift systems, presents a promising avenue for meeting the world's energy needs while mitigating environmental impacts. The research conducted by CGG scientists underscores the abundance of untapped geothermal resources lying beneath the ocean's surface. These offshore areas, characterized by their geological activity, offer an ideal environment for extracting geothermal energy alongside other valuable by-products such as freshwater, Green Hydrogen, and ammonia. This innovative approach not only diversifies the renewable energy mix but a...

Globeleq 35 MW Menengai Geothermal Plant Project To Start by April 2025

 Bringing Sustainable Energy to Kenya: Globeleq's 35 MW Geothermal Power Project in Menengai In a significant stride towards sustainable energy development in Kenya, Globeleq, a leading independent power producer, is set to embark on a groundbreaking 35 MW geothermal power project in Menengai. With the project slated to commence construction next week, the collaboration between Globeleq and its partners marks a pivotal moment in Kenya's renewable energy journey. Mobilization of Construction Teams and Commencement of Civil Works Globeleq has joined forces with prominent EPC contractors, Toyota Tsusho Corporation and CFAO Kenya Limited, to kickstart the mobilization of construction teams. The commencement of civil works signals the beginning of a transformative phase for the Menengai region and the broader Kenyan energy landscape. Timeline and Project Scope The construction phase is estimated to span 23 months, with full operation expected to commence around the quarter of 2025. ...

Manitoba Climate Action Team Vouches On Geothermal for Heating

Harnessing Geothermal Energy: A Sustainable Solution for Manitoba's Heating Needs In the heart of Canada's prairie province of Manitoba, a quiet revolution is brewing in the realm of energy sustainability. As concerns over climate change escalate and the need for eco-friendly alternatives intensifies, Manitoba's Climate Action Team (CAT) is leading the charge for a greener future by advocating for the widespread adoption of geothermal heating systems. The Case for Geothermal Energy At the forefront of this movement is the recognition that traditional heating methods, such as natural gas, are no longer viable in the face of a rapidly changing climate. With winters becoming harsher and energy demands soaring, Manitoba Hydro faces the challenge of meeting the province's heating needs sustainably. Enter geothermal energy – a renewable and carbon-free solution that harnesses the Earth's natural heat to provide warmth year-round. Unlike fossil fuels, geothermal energy emi...

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Eavor Demobilizes Rigs in Geretsried: What It Means for Closed-Loop Geothermal Investors, Heat Markets, and Project Risk

Eavor Demobilizes Rigs from Geretsried: What It Really Means for Closed-Loop Geothermal For three years, two drilling rigs on a farm estate near Geretsried, a Bavarian town about 40 km south of Munich, stood as the symbol of the world's most ambitious closed-loop geothermal experiment. Now in October 2026,  Eavor Technologies, the Calgary-based developer of the Eavor-Loop, has told the town and its heating utility that both rigs would leave the site . The company said keeping idle rigs and specialist services on site was costly, and that releasing them would help put the project in the strongest position to continue with Loop 2 once its commercial structure is reworked . On the surface, this is a logistics decision. Underneath, it is one of the clearest signals yet about where first-of-a-kind geothermal technology stands, and how hard it is to turn a technical proof into a bankable business. This article explains exactly what happened, what the move means and what it does not mean...

Endurance Energy Tests World's First Subsea Geothermal Well at Axial Seamount

Endurance Energy Tests the World's First Subsea Geothermal Well: What the Axial Seamount Demonstration Really Proved What if geothermal energy did not need a power plant on land? What if electricity could be produced directly from the Earth's heat beneath the ocean, with generators sitting on the seafloor and sending power to coastal grids? On October 19, 2026, Seattle-based startup Endurance Energy announced a major step toward that idea. The company said it had drilled and completed the world's first subsea geothermal well and placed a 3-ton test power plant nearly a mile beneath the Pacific. It also reported net-positive electricity from heat at an active underwater volcano, according to its announcement on PR Newswire. The headline numbers are modest. The Adélie prototype produced more electricity than it used for about 8.7 seconds. During that time it delivered a median net output of about 2 kilowatts and a peak of 16.5 kilowatts. One detail matters more than any other...

Djibouti Pays KenGen: $1M Offer on a Five-Year Geothermal Drilling Debt

Djibouti Pays KenGen: A $1 Million Offer on a Five-Year-Old Geothermal Drilling Debt Djibouti has finally moved to pay part of what it owes Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) for drilling work done near Lake Assal. The amount is small next to KenGen's balance sheet. What it says about selling geothermal drilling services across Africa matters a lot more. KenGen's latest annual report says Djibouti's state geothermal agency, the Office Djiboutien de Développement de l'Énergie Géothermique (ODDEG), has offered a first instalment of about $1 million (Sh129 million) against outstanding invoices of $2.13 million (Sh276.03 million), according to Business Daily. "ODDEG has acknowledged the debt and has proposed an initial payment of $1 million as the first instalment towards settlement," KenGen said in the report. KenGen is Kenya's largest power producer, with about 54% of the market. The Kenyan government owns 70% of the company and the public holds t...

BLM Nevada Geothermal Lease Auction Boosts Renewable Energy Investment amid Solar Land Conflict

BLM’s Nevada Geothermal Lease Auction Signals Rising Competition for Federal Energy Land The Bureau of Land Management’s latest geothermal lease sale in Nevada attracted nearly $4.83 million in total receipts, highlighting growing investor interest in geothermal resources as electricity demand rises . The auction also exposed an increasingly important land-use conflict: several geothermal parcels overlap with proposed utility-scale solar projects, including NextEra Energy’s 1,000-megawatt Sawtooth Energy Center. The October 20, 2026, sale offered 83 parcels covering approximately 265,155 acres across 10 Nevada counties. Bidders placed offers on 60 parcels covering 186,641 acres, while 23 parcels received no bids. The results provide a new measure of competition for federal geothermal acreage in one of the United States’ most important geothermal states. Auction Results The Nevada auction attracted 32 registered bidders, of which 18 submitted at least one bid. Across the sale, bidders s...

Menengai Geothermal Project Delays Expose Kenya’s Broken Steam Supply Model

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Geiselbullach Geothermal Project Confirms 10 MW District Heating Capacity

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KenGen Risks Losing Olkaria Geothermal Wells Over Licence Error

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Lithium Harvest Plans Alberta Geothermal Power and Lithium Project

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Corva and Oliasoft Connect Well Design With Real-Time Drilling

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California Court Orders New Environmental Review for Imperial County Geothermal Lithium Project

California Appeals Court Orders New Environmental Review for Imperial County Geothermal–Lithium Project Image: California Salton Lake Sea Hell’s Kitchen geothermal and lithium extraction plan sent back for deeper water, air-quality and mitigation analysis under CEQA A California appeals court has ordered Imperial County to conduct a more rigorous environmental review of the proposed Hell’s Kitchen geothermal power plant and lithium extraction project near the Salton Sea. The Fourth District Court of Appeal found that the county’s original environmental impact report (EIR) did not adequately address long-term water availability, enforceable mitigation measures for water shortages, or potential air-quality impacts tied to the receding Salton Sea. The ruling partially reverses a lower court decision and remands the case to Imperial County Superior Court, requiring the county and project developer Controlled Thermal Resources to address the identified deficiencies before the project can m...