The Geothermal Institute at the University of Auckland, in collaboration with Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and Human Resources Development Agency, recently organized a seminar in Indonesia. This event, themed "Accelerating a Sustainable Energy Transition with The Geothermal Institute, The University of Auckland," emphasized the diverse applications of geothermal energy and efforts to mitigate risks in project development.
The University of Auckland offers a comprehensive range of geothermal energy courses catering to various skill levels, from certificates to doctoral degrees, and custom training programs tailored to industry demands. These educational initiatives play a crucial role in equipping individuals with the necessary skills to support Indonesia's environmental goals.
The partnership between Indonesia and The University of Auckland, particularly through the Geothermal Institute, has a rich history and has contributed significantly to geothermal projects in Indonesia. This enduring collaboration reflects a shared dedication to advancing geothermal energy for sustainable development.
The seminar highlighted innovative uses of geothermal energy beyond electricity generation, including heat applications, green hydrogen production, mineral extraction, and CO2 sequestration. These diverse applications offer opportunities for both business growth and environmental sustainability, positioning geothermal energy as a versatile player in the energy transition.
A notable advancement discussed was the development of the Waiwera software by the University of Auckland, which revolutionizes geothermal resource assessment by incorporating uncertainty quantification methods. This tool is crucial for minimizing business risks, especially in the early stages of project development, and showcases the importance of advanced IT and computer technologies in enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of geothermal projects.