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Showing posts with the label New Zealand

Breaking Ground, Breaking Limits: New Zealand’s Supercritical Geothermal Ambitions Take Shape

Published: 28 May 2025 By:  Robert Buluma In the heart of the Taupō Volcanic Zone, where the earth roars with ancient fire, a bold new frontier in energy is stirring beneath New Zealand’s feet.  The Government has announced major strides in its ambitious pursuit of supercritical geothermal energy—a potential game-changer that could propel Aotearoa to the forefront of global clean energy innovation. And it’s not just ambition—it’s action. 🔥 Supercritical: The Next Leap in Geothermal Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti unveiled fresh details about the government’s progress toward harnessing supercritical geothermal energy. This isn't your everyday clean energy initiative—it's the geothermal equivalent of striking gold at the Earth's molten edge. Conventional geothermal energy taps into hot water and steam from wells drilled up to 3.5 km deep. But supercritical geothermal? It goes deeper—up to 6 km—where temp...

Towards a Shared Future: Indonesia and New Zealand Launch the Geothermal Partnership Program PINZ

Amidst the bustle of the capital city, a monumental moment took place at the Slamet Bratanata Building of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM):  By: Robert Buluma Indonesia and New Zealand officially launched the Indonesia–Aotearoa New Zealand Geothermal Partnership Program (PINZ). This cross-country initiative not only marks a new era of bilateral cooperation but also underscores Indonesia’s strategic steps in advancing its clean energy transition. With an ambitious target of increasing geothermal capacity by 1.1 GW over the next five years , PINZ is not merely a technical project—it is a declaration that Indonesia is serious about becoming a global geothermal powerhouse , surpassing even the United States. Shaking the Global Energy Status Quo “Energy transition is not a choice—it’s a necessity,” asserted Eniya Listiani Dewi, Director General of New and Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE). In her stirring address, she emphasized that Indonesia’s success...

Mercury Collaborates With Ormat To Expand Nga Tamariki Geothermal Station With Additional 45 MW

Unveiling a New Era: Ngā Tamariki Geothermal Station Expansion Underway! By: Robert Buluma In a symbolic gesture marked by the clinking of shovels against the earth, a new chapter in renewable energy dawned as the groundbreaking ceremony for the fifth generating unit at the Ngā Tamariki geothermal commenced. The air was filled with anticipation and reverence as representatives from Tauhara North 2 Trust , Tahu Ngati Whaoa , and their esteemed delivery partner, Ormat gathered to bless and celebrate this momentous occasion. At the heart of this expansion lies a profound commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation. Collaborating closely with their valued partners,  Tauhara North 2 Trust and the wider mana whenua Ngāti Tahu Ngati Whaoa ,They had meticulously crafted a plan that not only ensures the long-term health of the land but also honors its sacred significance as a taonga. The addition of this new unit marks a pivotal milestone in  Mercury ongoing mission to cha...

Geofluid and New Zealand University Of Aucland Xrays Paris Geothermal Reservoir To Unleash Geothermal Potential

Unveiling Paris' Hidden Gem: Geothermal Energy Revolutionizing Heating By : Robert Buluma Paris, known for its romantic streets and iconic landmarks, harbors a secret beneath its surface that is revolutionizing the way its citizens stay warm during the chilly winter months. Beneath the cobblestone pathways lies a vast geothermal reservoir, quietly providing low-energy heating to over 250,000 homes and even the bustling airport. Thanks to the innovative collaboration between researchers from the University of Auckland in New Zealand and Geofluid, a leading geothermal consulting company, Parisians are enjoying the benefits of this renewable energy source like never before. Using advanced modeling techniques, this dynamic team has created a detailed picture of the reservoir, unlocking its potential to optimize Paris' energy resources. Employing the cutting-edge Leapfrog Geothermal software, the researchers have constructed a comprehensive geological model, shedding light on the in...

Geothermal Partnership to Secure Taiwans Future

Geothermal Partnership to Secure Taiwan's Energy Future By  Robert Buluma In a move towards securing Taiwan's sustainable energy future, a groundbreaking collaboration has been forged between GNS Science of New Zealand, Taiwan's Geological Survey and Mining Management Agency (GSMMA), and National Cheng Kung University. This partnership aims to harness the power of geothermal energy, aligning with the shared vision of both nations for renewable energy and emissions reduction. Taiwan and New Zealand share more than just geological similarities; they also have parallel trajectories in transitioning towards renewable energy sources. Recognizing the critical role of geothermal power in the energy mix, this collaboration seeks to unlock the untapped potential lying beneath both nations' landscapes. On February 22, 2024, GNS and National Cheng Kung University held an academic seminar and cooperation discussion to solidify their commitment through a Memorandum of Understanding ...