The Present Status of Utilization of Geothermal Energy and Resources Research by the Aid of Japanese Government in Yangbajing Geothermal Field, Tibet, China

Abstract

Geothermal power generation of Yangbajing field has already operated over 25 years. Presently, although power capacity is 25.18MW, power output is about 15MW and reduction of power output has been obvious. Now geothermal fluid is extracted only from a shallow reservoir, while in the recent years it has been revealed that a deep, high temperature geothermal reservoir exists in the Yangbajing north field. So exploration and development of this deep reservoir is a important subject at Yangbajing. From 2001, a project started exploration and evaluation of the deep reservoir, conducted with Japanese Government aid. The project included not only geophysical and geochemical surveys but also drilling a deep exploration well and reservoir evaluation. Presently, drilling is being conducted. Hereafter, development of the deep reservoir and construction of a third geothermal power station is an important issue. In order to use the shallow reservoir properly, reservoir monitoring, improvement of reinjection system, measurement of scaling and corrosion, and conservation of the natural environment are also important subjects.