Stanford Geothermal WorkshopFebruary 9-11, 2026

The Paipa–Iza geothermal system, located in the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia, is one of the most promising prospects for geothermal development in the country and serves as a reference for the entire Andean region. Its surface hydrothermal manifestations exhibit average temperatures between 65 and 90 °C, placing it within the category of low- to medium-enthalpy systems. Based on previous estimates, its electric potential is between 5 and 10 MWe, making it a potential small-scale solution for electricity generation through binary technologies, as well as for direct uses such as heating, industrial applications, and process integration. This study compiles available geological, geochemical, and geothermal data for Paipa–Iza and compares it to equivalent geothermal fields worldwide, such as Unterhaching (Germany, 3.5 MWe, 122 °C), Copahue (Argentina, 100 MWe, 150 °C), and Berlín (El Salvador, 109 MWe, 280 °C). The comparison shows that Paipa–Iza shares tectonic and surface expression characteristics typical of low-enthalpy systems but exhibits a more limited potential. This analogy, in our view, highlights the need for the application of advanced exploration methods, such as 3D conceptual modeling, magnetotelluric surveys, and coupled hydrothermal simulation, to reduce uncertainty and improve utilization strategies. Beyond its estimated installed capacity, Paipa–Iza provides a natural laboratory for the development of exploration methodologies under low-enthalpy conditions and with limited subsurface data, a typical scenario in Latin America. In this context, the complex is envisioned as a key pilot design project for Colombia, with the potential to contribute to the country’s energy diversification and its transition toward a low-carbon model, while strengthening international scientific cooperation in geothermal research.

Topic: Field Studies