Binary Geothermal: A Reliable Power Solution During Natural Disasters

Abstract

What do the typhoon that ravaged the Philippines in 2013 and the 2010 volcanic eruption of De Pacaya Mountain in Guatemala have in common? These events were devastating to the areas in which they are located, including severely handicapping electricity production. Both of these areas host binary geothermal power plants. During these times of distress, their unique architecture, high standard of design and construction, together with the way they utilized the geothermal resource, enabled it to be the first power provider following these natural disasters to supply a dependable energy source to the grid. Many benefits of these binary geothermal power plants contributed to their ability to quickly provide power due to the comparatively minimal damage caused to the facilities, during times when other power generators were rendered incapable of operation. There are several reasons for this result, some directly related to, some are side effect of the technology.