Project Specifics

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.

Geosyntec Scope of Services

Geosyntec was asked to assess the feasibility of purchasing, restoring, and investing in a geothermal plant located in Imperial Valley, California. Our team separated this project into four areas: Surface (plant equipment and power performance evaluation), Subsurface (geology and geothermal energy production potential assuming new drilling techniques), Permitting, and Public Involvement.

Geosyntec’s analysis of the site, with help from specialty subconsultants, led to a matrix of prioritized recommendations for the client group. Following analyses of the subsurface, we verified there were significant opportunities for enhanced geothermal power generation. Our team worked with internal and external engineers to understand new drilling practices and how those methods would overcome past geologic complexities that had diminished field performance. We then presented the client group with recommendations for remedial measures to the power plant infrastructure, including the need for more in-depth water-supply planning. Geosyntec provided the client group with recommendations concerning permitting and public involvement, citing that proof of early stakeholder support would greatly benefit the intended site projects.

Notable Accomplishments

Geosyntec provided the client group with an in-depth analysis of the risks and benefits associated with the plant and geothermal field. Our analyses concluded the most notable risks lie within two areas: (1) understanding the deeper geologic and thermal regime and how best to drill into that area, and (2) water supply and wastewater disposal agreements, based on the capacity for future function. These points led us to recommend an in-depth geothermal and drilling study of the deeper horizon, as well as a water and wastewater leakage plan. Our analysis also led us to relaying the importance of stakeholder approval and support to the client group, because it would help meet projected timelines.

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