Contribution of UNU/GTP training to geothermal development in Asian countries

Abstract

The United Nations University Geothermal Training Programme (UNU/GTP) can be considered synonymous with the training of geothermists in Asia. The first 2 UNU/GTP Fellows in 1979 came from the Philippines, and in 1980-1981 9 Fellows came from the Philippines and China. As of 2003, Asia constituted 26% of the countries that have availed of the UNU/GTP, and 43% of the total number of Fellows who have attended the courses under the UNU/GTP. Asia also accounts for 39% of the world??s total geothermal generating capacity and 21% in terms of direct use of geothermal resources. Economic growth rates for 1997-2010 in Asia are projected at 2.9-6.9%. Given the close relationship of economic growth and energy consumption, providing power through geothermal energy to fuel
these economies offers vast potential opportunities in geothermal investments. With the increasing global awareness on sustainable development and the significant fuel savings derived from utilizing geothermal resources, developing geothermal expertise then becomes even more imperative for Asian economies. The UNU/GTP is, therefore,
a very relevant factor not only in the professional career growth of ex-Fellows but also in the rapid development of geothermal resources in Asia.