Geothermal Development in Eritrea: A Country Update

Abstract

Dependence of imported refined petroleum products for electric power generation has not only adverse effects on the economic development of Eritrea but also causes environmental pollution. The impact can be viewed both in terms of frequent increment of fuel prices and environment degradation through emission of greenhouse gases. Geothermal energy will therefore have an important input in alleviating expenditure on foreign currency while safeguarding the environment. The tectonic setting and geological setup of the south-eastern coastal zone of Eritrea is conducive for development of a geothermal resource that can be harnessed mainly for electrical generation and direct utilization. Alid and Nabro-Dubbi geothermal areas are notable prospects with ample geothermal manifestations. Surface exploration surveys in Alid geothermal prospect indicated high reservoir temperatures of >250ºC as estimated from gas geothermometers. Fracture and fault density (FFD) analyses carried out indicate that structures are permeable and probably the prospect is located at the up-flow zone of the region. A 70°N trending high fracture zone is well marked on the FFD contour plot. The resistivity surveys conducted recently show a positive anomaly at the prospect area and this prompted further exploration surveys to be conducted. The 2011 volcanic eruption in Nabro indicates that the area is tectonically active as evidenced by numerous fumaroles that appeared thereafter.