Geothermal Electricity Generation in Italy: Status and Perspectives

Abstract

The status of geothermal development for power generation in Italy as of the end of 1998 is presented. A total of 30 power plants, consisting of 38 units, were installed, totalling an electric installed capacity of 728.5 MW, 25 MW of which kept as a resenre and with 40 MW that came on line in 1998. Another power plant, consisting of two 20 MW units, was under commissioning at the same time. 1998 yearly generation peaked at an unprecedented maximum of 4.2 billions kWh. 1999 generation should reach a new maximum of 4.5 billions kWh, thanks to the contribution of new power plants, including a 20 MW unit presently under construction, expected to be commissioned in mid-1999. Geothermal development is currently under way, notwithstanding the uncertainties of the electric sector, being restructured according to the EU regulations. Plans for the 1999-2004 period foresee the commissioning of a total gross generation capacity of around 330 MW, including binary units and the above said 20 MW unit already under construction. Over 50% of the new capacity will be made up of power plants replacing almost 180 MW of older units to be decommissioned. Geothermal yearly generation at the end of this program is expected to peak at over 5.5 billions kWh. Possible further development is dependent on the results of the exploration and drilling activities to be carried out in new areas.