Geothermal Development in the Comoros and Results of Geothermal Surface Exploration

Abstract

Comoros constantly is going through an energy crisis. This crisis is due to the difficulties that the company of Water and Electricity encounters. On total capacity of 21.5Mw installed only 12MW are available. The cost of producing 1KWh is still high compared to the sale price of 1KWh. This explains the dire situation that the company is facing for more than twenty years. Each 1KWh sold the company is recording a loss. To solve these problems, the ministry of Energy is prospecting solutions and among them, the development of geothermal energy remains suitable, clean, lasting and less expensive. The Government of the Union of the Comoros through the Geological Bureau of Comoros and the partnership help of the African Union, the Government of New Zealand and UNDP, surface studies were conducted. These define the first stage of the project. In November 2014, geochemical studies were conducted. In July-August 2015 these studies were supplemented by performing 80 magnetotelluric measurements and 208 gravity measurements. The results are more encouraging and satisfactory, Geothermal potential is highlighted. It extends over an area of 4.1km2 in the northeast of the caldera. After interpretation of geochemical and geophysical data, geothermal potential was estimated at a value greater than 40Mw. Initially, three exploratory drillings were carried out on two wells identified sites. The goal is to confirm the feasibility of resource exploitation. The use of geothermal energy will have a direct impact in the cost of electricity and solve the energy crisis in the country. The advantage of this program for the economy is obvious. In addition, electricity will be produced, the direct use of geothermal energy will thus be developed, tourist uses, drying agricultural products and fishing.