Computer Aided Feasibility Assessment of Geothermal Non-Electric Projects

Abstract

Computer programs have been developed as aides to feasibility assessment of geothermal resource development. The GEOR code effects matching of entries in a file of geothermal resource information with an entry or a file or entries representing potential geothermal users or developers. Matching may be restricted as to location or resource attributes thereby aiding the program user in determination of the feasibility of development for specific uses by a developer or class of developers. The GEOTHE code performs an economic analysis of a specified geothermal project based on technical and economic considerations. Parametric studies may be made to examine the impact of technical or economic uncertainties thereby aiding in the feasibility assessment of the proposed project. Matching of geothermal resources with a class of potential user and typical results from an economic feasibility assessment of a geothermal space heating conversion project are presented.