The San Michkael Project, an Example of Multiple Direct Uses of a Low to Medium Enthalpy Geothermal Source for Developing Countries

Abstract

With temperatures ranging from 90 to 120 degrees Centigrade, the San Michkael Geothermal Industrial Park Project, in Guatemala, Central America is working in multiple direct applications of their geothermal well using the temperature in cascade after each use. Our business model which includes practical approaches, apply a shallow low to medium temperature geothermal well source in direct use applications. Among which are: Electricity Generation, Food, Grains, Fruits and Vegetable Dehydration, Wax and Candle Handy Crafts, and Hot and Cold Water Production for multiple Industrial uses. Other such as Cold Storage and Vapor applications are being evaluated. The method can be easily applied in developing countries with a small budget, most of the equipment and facilities built with local off of the shelf equipment. The geothermal exploration, geothermal well drilling and site exploration and development done in-house by the San Michkael Geothermal Project. This business and technical model that can be expanded to other projects and locations as the ongoing growing knowledge of each geothermal source in determined. Waste water from large geothermal operations can also be alternatively used. The project is a sample of what can be achieved with a shallow geothermal source to set up a profitable and self sustained business. It is a tool that can help communities to attain self-sufficiency and generate income using direct low enthalpy geothermal applications.