New Focus on Wellhead Power Generation

Abstract

Geothermal wellhead power generation units are increasing in popularity due to speed and simplicity of installation, portability, and low-operating cost. They can utilize exploration wells, or wells deemed to be sub-commercial but still able to support a small-scale application. A significant benefit to using wellhead units is early generation of power during wellfield development of large projects. The power can be delivered into the local grid, or it can be used in support of drilling activities. Installing wellhead units early in the development phase can also help quantify the response of the reservoir to production, which can assist in calibrating reservoir models. Wellhead units are now either planned or being installed at various sites in Kenya. Geothermal Development Associates (GDA) recently supplied and successfully commissioned the first wellhead unit at Kenya’s Eburru geothermal field.