Technical Review of Geothermal Potential of Kibiro Geothermal Prospects Uganda-1

Abstract

This paper presents the executive summary ofthe recently-completed geothermal resource assessment report for the Kibiro hot springs geothermal prospect in western Uganda (Alexander et a!., 2016). This report was prepared for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). As part of their initiative to promote geothermal resource development and utilization in East Africa, UNEP has implemented the GEF-funded African Rift Geothermal Development Facility Project (ARGeo). One of ARGeo`s primary components is to provide technical and financial assistance for surface exploration studies for the ARGeo member countries (Burundi, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda). In 2014, the Uganda Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Department of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM) submitted a request for technical assistance to UNEP for surface exploration studies at the Kibiro geothermal prospect (DGSM, 2014). In its proposal, DGSM requested provision of scientific equipment and high-level experts in areas of geology, geochemistry, and geophysics. UNEP chose this proposal as one of the projects for technical assistance for surface exploration studies. The Geothermal Development Company of Kenya (GDC) was nominated to provide technical advice and equipment for the surface exploration studies at Kibiro. Three technical consultants were selected by UNEP to provide advisory services and hands on training: Kenneth B. (Keg) Alexander, geologist; William Cumming, geophysicist; and Luigi Marini, geochemist. This report was prepared by the UNEP technical consultants. Preexisting and new geological, geochemical, and geophysical data have been compiled and evaluated to form separate, integrated resource conceptual models of Kibiro. The conceptual models illustrate the various components of a geothermal system: heat source, reservoir, cap rock, temperature distribution, and fluid pathways. Alternative conceptual models representative of the uncertainty in the data and interpretation are used for exploration well targeting and resource capacity assessment.