Mutnovsky Geothermal Power Complex in Kamchatka

Abstract

Modern development of energy in Russia is characterised by an abrupt increase in requirements for fuel and materials, and correspondingly electric power. The greatest increased cost of energy takes place in remote area of the Far East, Kamchatka and the Kurils Islands, which use mostly imported fuel. Recently the cost of 1 kWh of electric power in these areas exceeds world prices and reaches 0.1-0.25 dollars USA for 1 kW/h. Russia has a unique reserve of geothermal energy in Kamchatka. This region may secure itself with energy independence by generating energy at the warm Earthís expense. Russia has a rich experience in mastering geothermal resources with many explored Russian geothermal fields. There are about 1000 drilled geothermal wells within Russia. Today in Europe and throughout the world the intensive utilisation of non-traditional renewable types of energy is observed. In particular, the use of geothermal energy in Russia is part of a strategic plan of moving whole regions to securing them cheaper and ecologically clean geothermal energy. This plan is being realised for the first time in Kamchatka.