Present Status of the Copahue Geothermal Project

Abstract

Since 1974, the exploration project for Copahue geothermal field has been developed, taking into account the observed reservoir parameters, the development of this type of energy in the rest of the world, and the economic situation in the country. In 1988 a 670 kWe binary cycle pilot plant was installed in the field.
A technical-economic feasibility study was concluded in 1992. By that time, the global political and economic scenario had undergone a profound shift, in Argentina as elsewhere. Within this new model, radical changes were made to existing regulations, including the privatization of the electric energy production, transport and distribution sectors throughout the country. In 1996-97, NeuquÈn Province launched a district heating project for Copahue village.
Because of the changes on the economic and political scene, there was a renewal of interest and encouragement in developing the NeuquÈn geothermal project.