Geothermal Power Developments in the Third World

Abstract

Emphasis on geothermal energy development in Third World countries is on electric power rather than non-electric direct used, with some exceptions in Kenya, Vietnam and China. Eastern European nations will continue to pursue non-electric uses and western nations will attempt to span both sets of uses. Multiple source funding, including the United Nations Development Programme, bilateral and/or private investment funds and joint ventures are required by Third World countries to avoid long and costly delays and project abandonment. Fruitful geothermal energy developments have taken place in the Latin American Cordillera and the Philippines while less progress has been made in Africa. Indonesia appears to be on the threshold of significant growth in the geothermal power industry. Private investment funds are being used there. Shortages of trained technical staff continues to slow development in many Third World countries; U.S. institutions have not yet established comprehensive training programs.