| Title | Geothermal Energy Developments in Iran |
|---|---|
| Authors | Amirhomayoun Saffarzadeh, Soheil Porkhial, Mohsen Taghaddosi |
| Year | 2010 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | Iran, geothermal, Meshkinshahr power generation project, deep drilling, direct use development, energy issue. |
| Abstract | In this paper, an overview of recent developments (2005- 2009) on geothermal energy is described in the Iranian territories. Within this time frame, the number of geothermal-related projects noticeably increased. The Meshkinshahr project in NW of Iran with the goal to generate 55 MWe power nominally, whose exploration drilling phase is in progress, is a national project that is entirely managed by the Renewable Organization of Iran (SUNA). Besides, a small-scale power generation unit has been planned to be set up in the site using geothermal fluids of one of the existing exploration wells. As for direct utilization, a national survey project has been handed over to the private sector using government budget on the existing thermal manifestations. The purpose of the project is to present master plans for selected geographic areas with reasonable potential that are appropriate for tourism facilities. A project was also defined and conducted jointly by SUNA and private sector on the possible direct utilizations of wastewater from the future power plant near Meshkinshahr city. A recent study around Damavand Volcano (north of Iran) demonstrated reasonable geothermal resource with moderate temperature (estimated 130-175°C). As a new technological approach, SUNA launched a feasibility study project for the installation of 5 geothermal heat pumps in different climatic conditions in order to evaluate the efficiency of this technology in the country. In order to promote the standards of geothermal activities in Iran, cooperation with foreign scientists has been continued for transferring technologies within the past 4 years. |