| Title | Improved Energy Utilisation from the Rotorua Geothermal Field |
|---|---|
| Authors | Drew, Stephen R. |
| Year | 1985 |
| Conference | Geothermal Resources Council Transactions |
| Keywords | Power Generation; Production; Direct Use; New Zealand; Rotorua; Wells; Injection |
| Abstract | The Rotorua geothermal field in New Zealand is unique with its spectacular geysers and there thermal activity. Over the last few years there has been increasing conflict between the preservation and the exploitation interests associated with the fields development. A Geothermal Task Force team was established in 1983 to find the most cost effective way of improving energy utilization and so reducing withdrawal from the field. The team can now confirm the level of fluid withdrawal from the 350 shallow bores and the extent of the current wastage of geothermal energy. Most of the existing heating system utilize only 10 percent of the available heat in the withdrawn fluid and by applying standard energy conservation techniques, significant energy savings can be made. this improved energy utilization can only be achieved by a management plan that encourages further bore sharing because most of the existing production bores cannot produce at low flow rates and require far more users. Group heating systems within city blocks could make the best use of the existing bore for production as well as injection. Management proposals for the field are scheduled for release in November 1985. |