Permitting begins for US$560mn geothermal project in Peru

EDC Energía Verde Perú (EEVP) has submitted a preliminary environmental evaluation (EVAP) to Peru’s environmental certification service for sustainable investments (Senace) for the 110MW Achumani geothermal project.

An EVAP is used to determine whether an environmental impact assessment, semi-detailed environmental impact study or detailed environmental impact study is required.

The US$560mn complex is planned for Cabanconde district, Caylloma province, in the southern region of Arequipa, and would boast two plants.

EEVP exploration surface studies have identified the extension of a probable, high temperature geothermal system, whose conceptual model indicates the existence of a high temperature (250-300°C) liquid reservoir under a thick steam layer. The upper steam reservoir feeds the fumarolic activity on the northern flank of the Hualca Hualca volcano.

The geothermal system would support 200MW-plus of power generation during the life of the project, according to EEVP.

The project envisions the use of nine platforms, each of which would drill up to six wells to a depth of 1,500-2,200m. Piping would consist of two condensate and eight steam lines, along with a pressure and ventilation station.

EDC has penciled in 2027 for the start of commercial operations at Achumani. A third party would be responsible for the transmission line to connect the plant to the national grid.

The EVAP, prepared by Walsh Perú, highlights that Achumani would be located outside natural protected areas and buffer zones.

 

Source: EVAP

Despite the country’s geothermal potential of nearly 3GW, this renewable energy source has yet to take a hold in Peru, with the last exploration authorizations issued in 2013.

 

Source: Osinergmin

Franklin Acevedo, manager of Energy Development Corporation (EDC) Perú, told BNamericas previously that there needs to be greater awareness of geothermal’s positive externalities.

“When evaluating geothermal energy, a comparison is normally made with other renewable technologies, such as wind and solar. However, this evaluation is wrong, since geothermal is not intermittent,” he said.

Acevedo adds that geothermal power “is the only one that provides a plant factor above 95%, which makes it very attractive for the development of industry and mining.”

Read The obstacles facing geothermal energy in Peru

 

Source: Osinergmin

Photo credit: Osinergmin