First Australian Geothermal Plant-Mulka

Abstract

Geothermal energy with in Australia can be harnessed through organic rankine cycles (ORC’s). Hot sedimentary aquifers can be used as a geothermal energy resource. In particular, an ORC that became operational in 1986 was the first plant built in Australia that could generate electricity from a geothermal resource. Its operating temperature was 86 °C producing 10KW of electricity (Collins et.al (1987). This low temperature geothermal plant was probably a world’s first at the time. The ORC is of particular interest for outback communities where electricity is primarily supplied by diesel electric generators. With the high cost of fuel and the concern over the effects on C02 emissions on the environment, geothermal energy can provide a zero emission electricity generation alternative in areas where it is available. Geothermal energy has potential to be harnessed within Australia for outback communities, and this has been proven by the Mulka plant. The Mulka plant has its place in geothermal history and in Australia as being the first of its kind. Analysing this plant and comparing to conventional power sources provides a bench mark for future projects. A history of the Mulka plant, its design parameters, operation experience and current status will be presented at the conference.