Geothermal Energy in the Perth Basin

Abstract

In 2008, the Government of Western Australia amended the onshore Petroleum Act to include rights to explore for and produce geothermal energy. The first geothermal exploration rights under this legislation were granted to Green Rock Energy in the Perth Basin at the end of July 2009 after a process of application by tender. The Perth Basin straddles the south western coast where most of Western Australia’s population and power infrastructure is located. This favourable location close to markets together with the Perth Basin’s geological potential to contain large geothermal resources presents the opportunity to supply energy for electricity production and direct use including air-conditioning and desalination of water.