Utilization of Small Scale Geothermal Power Plants for Rural Electrification in Indonesia

Abstract

Indonesia is currently in the midst of a major rural electrification program. The national government is performing an evaluation of all fuel sources in the country and is encouraging the development of a diversified electrical power generation industry. This diversification includes utilizing the extensive indigeneous geothermal resources on many remote islands in mini geothermal plants to reduce dependence on small diesel power generators and conserve oil for export. The geothermal reserves in Indonesia are estimated at about 10,000 while the resource potential is about 42,600 Rapid development of mini geothermal power plants of less than 10 in capacity is expected in numerous locations such as Ambon and Lombok in the next few years.