| Title | Integrated Mechanical and Chemical Treatment for Maintaining Cooling Tower Performance: A Case study from Muara Laboh Geothermal Field |
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| Authors | Rahmatul A. Andini, Zakaria Z. Sumantoro, Munggang H. Purnanto |
| Year | 2026 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | |
| Abstract | Cooling towers (CTs) play a vital role in the condensation process of the cooling water cycle in a geothermal power plant. They cool down the water used in the condenser, allowing it to maintain an optimal condensation rate. In geothermal power plants with direct contact condensers, CTs may encounter operational challenges such as sulfur deposition, scaling, biofouling, and mechanical problems that reduce CT efficiency and power generation. Since the past CT performance decline case in mid-2023, Muara Laboh Geothermal Power Plant has successfully established significant improvement programs comprising of proper monitoring system, better cooling water quality management, and mechanical actions. Routine nozzle replacement every 6 months increased CT efficiency by restoring uniform water distribution through fill pack and into basin. In parallel, improvements in chemical treatment—including biocide dosing schedule and sulfur dispersant dosing reliability maintained CT component cleanliness, with CT approach kept below 5°C for extended periods. Following these improvements, plant generation returned to its Plant Rated Capacity of 86.26 MWN. One year after improvement, the load averaged 86.46 MWN. Economically, without program enhancements the plant was projected to generate only 81.95 MWN in mid-2024, causing an estimated 24,310 MWh electricity dispatch deficit or USD 3.1 million revenue loss. This paper highlights the success story of Muara Laboh GPP in preserving CT performance and achieving long-term operational optimization. |