Geothermal Energy Plant Field and Plant Expansion Analysis
A confidential investor and development team expressed interest in investing, acquiring, enhancing, and expanding a geothermal energy facility located in a well-known, yet complex, geothermal area in Imperial Valley, California. To evaluate the viability of this investment, they requested a comprehensive analysis of the site's existing resources and facilities to evaluate the following: The potential for the existing power plant equipment to regain up to 20 milliwatts (mW) and expand up to 50 mW as per agreement terms with the power agency The conditions of the subsurface infrastructure, supply and return wells, and their potential for enhancement The viability of a new energy recovery design concept using oil-field-tested directional drilling and how it may be applicable in expanding the field to 250 mW The technical, environmental, and financial viability of the investment Preliminary assessments suggested that the facility’s current technology was not fully operational. The client group sought to understand the potential advantages of not only purchasing the plant, but also enhancing its capabilities in collaboration with third parties. This necessitated detailed evaluations of both surface and subsurface conditions such as geological characteristics, permitting requirements, stakeholder dynamics, regulatory compliance, and power plant performance.
