Comoros Geothermal Project: Exploration Drilling Infrastructure Assessment

Abstract

Studies on the total geothermal energy potential of the Karthala volcano are promising. This is based on the surface exploration studies carried out between October 2014 and August 2015. From the results of the surface investigations, the Karthala summit area has the capacity to generate 45 MWe mainly for electric power production. The Government of Comoros is planning to develop 10 MWe of geothermal power during the first phase. However, development of this phase is not devoid of challenges such as infrastructural requirements for the exploration drilling. This study involves assessing port facilities, existing road network and access to the proposed site, and reviewing options for water supply for drilling. A water supply study was undertaken to assess various options for supplying the drilling operations with adequate water during the exploratory drilling phase. Several water supply options have been identified (groundwater abstraction, surface capture and seawater capture) but groundwater catchment is identified as the best solution for water supply exploratory drilling. MT data analysis and interpretation enabled us to locate ground water reservoirs north of Karthala with flow rates sufficient for exploration drilling activities. This study allowed us to review infrastructure requirements and develop cost estimates