Prospective direct use enterprises in Kapoho, Hawaii

Abstract

"The Puna District of the island of Hawaii encompasses the only Known Geothermal Resource Area (KGRA) in the State of Hawaii. Its Kapoho region is also the location of the state’s sole geothermal power plant, the 30 MW Puna Geothermal Venture (PGV) facility. Despite significant potential, there is negligible direct utilization of geothermal heat in Kapoho. Direct use development is primarily hampered by a lack of awareness regarding the availability of the resource and its benefits, and by the perceived cost of infrastructure. A regulatory framework for geothermal development has been established, although County regulations do not specifically address direct use. The resources potentially available to direct use enterprises in Puna include thermal groundwater from shallow wells and excess heat from PGV’s operations. Water wells in the area with depths less than 230 meters (750 ft) have recorded temperatures ranging up to 89°C (193°F). PGV is supplied by several deep wells that have encountered fluids at temperatures up to 342°C (648°F). Hot brine from the separator, at approximately 204°C (400°F), could be tapped for direct use or additional power generation prior to reinjection. Economic activity in Kapoho is primarily based on agriculture. Direct use offers value-added opportunities for existing enterprises such as papaya farming, nursery operations and commercial fishing, and can also provide the basis for new businesses. Direct use opportunities are especially promising in Hawaii because of the exceptionally high costs of conventional energy supplies, and because they can improve profitability, add value to products, increase productivity and expand job opportunities in an environmentally benign manner."

Presented at the 2004 Annual Meeting of the Geothermal Resources Council.