Turboden Geothermal References in Bavaria: Technology, Drivers and Operation

Abstract

The paper introduces the recent experience of Turboden with three 5 MW state of the art geothermal power plants in Bavaria, and the status of the operations. A focus on the technology of these plants is made, particularly describing the type of thermodynamic cycle, the adopted scheme for district heating heat decoupling, the optimization drivers. The importance of working fluid selection for optimized efficiency, and the selection of key components like heat exchangers and air-cooled condenser is highlighted. The German frame regulation for incentive scheme and grid requirements are described, island mode operation are pointed-out and discussed. Finally, the advantages of the adopted solution is summarized, together with the economic benefits in terms of enhanced energy production.