Research proposal to National Science Foundation, Research Applied to National Needs (RAMN)

Abstract

Pele Energy Laboratory Experiments (PELE). The PELE Project involves an interdisciplinary team of fifty-four researchers from throughout the University of Hawaii System who, in collaboration with a distinguished group of advisors and consultants, will engage in thirty-eight, separate research tasks related to geothermal power. These scientific investigations are grouped into three programs: a) Geophysical, b) Engineering, and c) Environmental and Socioeconomic; and include both short- and long-range research studies on the identification, generation, and utilization of geothermal energy. A secondary objective of the PELE Project is to provide the geophysical data and engineering technology to assist in the early development of geothermal power on the Big Island of Hawaii. Consequently, the drilling of deep test holes and planning for construction of a prototype geothermal power plant are included in this proposal. The prototype plant, in addition to providing essential data on the reservoir characteristics of the geothermal field, will serve as an observation and working laboratory for engineers and scientists from throughout the world. This project has the interest and support of both State and County governments as well as the private utilities on the three major islands. The potential is excellent for involving education, private interests, and government at the local, state and federal levels in this significant research project for expanding the technology base on geothermal energy and for developing a low-pollution power source for Hawaii and the Nation.