Exploring the Geothermal Potential of West Malaysia - A Case Study of viability

Abstract

Along with the world's no. 2 and no. 3 geothermal electricity producers (Indonesia, the Philippines), Malaysia is located in the same centre of 2 subducting boundaries hachures on upper plates. Unlike for its neighbours, geothermal explorations are still at an infancy stage. The contribution scrutinises if geothermal potential in Malaysia might be high, especially for a small power plants utilising the so called "binary cycle". The presentation exemplifies by one case study of the previously located 61 West Malaysian hot springs, how to extend a promising resistivity profile of 30" to 100 meters, further remote sensing (helicopter), surface-near test drills and a how a remote sensing (helicopter), surface-near test drills and a how a produce electricity, alternative options are derived to make use of the hot springs' geothermal potential: District cooling, balneology, or hot water generation. Market Growth for small and mid size Geothermal Power Plants in Malaysia could soar once it is firmed up under the FIT feed-in tariff, taking into consideration the successful application, implementation and operation of the first technology demonstrator and pilot plant which is laid out in the presentation: Market demand and growth for small and mid-sized geothermal power plants will also create "side effects" on other market like drilling, piping and remote monitoring as well as for hybrid smart grid systems, which might have positive and driving impacts on the domestic industry.