Work to delineate the areas favorable for commercial geothermal energy development is already beginning. Analysis of basic geological information shows that heat emitting granites occur in the Esperance district. This also shows that strong structural events have occurred in the same area and this should assist in the ability to retrieve the geothermal energy for power generation.
During the first year of the project, several investigations will map the extent of the heat emitting granites. During the second year it is planned to investigate the granite heat source in detail and carry out shallow drilling. Deeper drilling designed to provide the framework for harnessing the geothermal heat electricity conversion is planned for 2012, the company said.
The development and harnessing of geothermal energy is said to be an opportunity for base load emission-free electricity generation in the Esperance district. Across Australia, there are several projects that are likely to result in large scale emission-free electricity generation.
