Geothermal Development in the Comoros

Abstract

The government of the Comoros has embraced sustainable development and seeks to establish the use of geothermal energy in the country. The use of this new form of energy in the country will play an important role in economic development. The Government of the Union of Comoros entered into an agreement with the national company of Kenya, KenGen, to carry out studies to identify the existence of geothermal potential in the country.

The first studies were conducted in April 2008 with the execution of five MT surveys. The results indicate the presence of geothermal potential in the region of Karthala. To complement these studies and locate drill sites, additional geophysical and geochemical surveys are planned for the year 2012.

The Government has established a research department of geology to promote geothermal development with financial support from the Government of Kuwait. The results of surface exploration will be a basis for siting deep exploration wells. Government is in the process of joining the African Rift Geothermal Development facility (ARGeo). The ARGeo will provide technical support for geothermal exploration and the risk mitigation for drilling exploration wells. It will also promote information exchange and sharing of equipment and expertise.