Geothermal Energy Direct-use in Dieng Geothermal Field: Existing and Potential Development

Abstract

Dieng geothermal field, located in the Dieng Plateau area in Central Java, is currently installed with a geothermal power plant with capacity of 60 MW, which has been operated since 2002. Located at around 2,000 masl, the geothermal power plant is surrounded by a local community that mostly lives from agriculture and tourism. The main agricultural commodity in the area is potato, while tourism objects are volcano craters, thermal manifestations, caves, and temples. This study initiated by mapping various existing direct applications of geothermal energy in Dieng geothermal field, especially those related to tourism, health and agriculture. The summary results are then compared with direct-use applications in other geothermal prospect areas, both in Indonesia and abroad. The final goal of this study is to identify other direct-use applications opportunities that are feasible to be applied in this area to improve the local community welfare.