The Darajat Resource: Implications for Development

Abstract

Extensive computer simulation of the Darajat reservoir performance, together with operational experience from the neighbouring steamfield of Kawah Kamojang, has convinced the developers, Amoseas Inc., that high reservoir pressures can be maintained for many years. Improvement in the control of exhaust steam wetness has removed one of the constraints to increasing turbine inlet pressure, allowing geothermal power plant and steamfield developers to enjoy the economic and thermodynamicadvantagesof increased system pressures. The most significant advantages offered by the use of high pressure steam are a substantially lower steam consumption and specific steam volume leading to smaller pipelines, turbines and cooling water systems. The steam consumption of steam jet ejectors is dramatically reduced. The substantial reduction in initial capital costwillenhance the comparative advantage of geothermal generation.