| Abstract |
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire where tectonic plate movements and associated volcanic activity occurs. Geothermal resources in PNG mostly occur in isolated locations remote from large population centres. Little scientific information is held in relation to most of PNG’s geothermal resources. However, the potential exists for a range of uses of geothermal resources – principally for electricity generation, but could also include other uses such as direct heat applications and the development of tourism attractions based on surface geothermal features. To date, only one geothermal power station has been developed in PNG on Lihir Island which provides electricity for a gold mining and processing operation. A Geothermal Resource Policy has recently been developed which relates to the exploration, development, production, use and management (including preservation) of geothermal resources in PNG. The Geothermal Resource Policy for PNG was developed by Mark Chrisp (Director of Environmental Management Services Ltd) and Marlene Oliver (NZ Environment Court Commissioner) as part of the NZ Aid Programme funded by the NZ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. This paper sets out the process that was undertaken to develop the Geothermal Resource Policy including consultation with a range of key stakeholders. It sets out the key elements of the Geothermal Resource Policy and identifies some of the challenges and issues that need to be addressed associated with developing PNG’s geothermal resources. The Geothermal Resource Policy seeks to promote the adoption of international best practice in relation to the management of geothermal resources tailored to local circumstances. |