Klaipeda Geothermal Demonstration Project

Abstract

In 1996 a new project for the use of geothermal energy was initiated. The proposed project consists of a pilot ìdemonstrationî plant representing the first phase in the development of geothermal resources for space heating in Klaipeda city and other urban areas of Lithuania. Four geothermal wells were drilled, completed and tested during the two years and will be used for heating purposes. The above-ground facilities are under construction. Geothermal water will be extracted from production wells and returned with reduced temperature to the same depth through two injection wells to maintain formation pressure and to avoid causing water pollution problems. Geothermal heat will be transferred to the district heating network of Klaipeda by four LiBr absorption heat pumps which are driven by hot water (175 0C, 10 bar) from boilers. The driving heat for the absorption heat pumps will be supplied to the districtheating network together with geothermal heat. The technology required for utilisation of the available lowtemperature geothermal heat in existing district heating networks is well developed and is being employed in several European towns and cities. The plant shall extract up to 20 MW heat with absorption heat pumps from up to 700 m3/h of 38 0C, 14 % salinity geothermal water. The proposed project will have only positive environmental impacts as no emissions will be generated, and it will also significantly reduce the use of fossil fuels. The geothermal plant will result in annual reductions of emissions of CO2 and NOx by 52 000 and 270 tons respectively.