Australian Greenearth Energy in research partnership on desalination

Alexander Richter 6 Jul 2009

In a recent announcement, Greenearth Energy Ltd (GER) and RMIT University … confirmed a research partnership aimed at generating electricity and drinking water from geothermal sources.

“RMIT scientists hope to bring their skills to bear to take advantage of Greenearth Energy’s geothermal hot sedimentary aquifer discoveries in Victoria,” Greenearth Energy Managing Director, Mark Miller, said.

“Greenearth Energy knows that Australia has an abundance of geothermal reservoirs that contain hot salty water. RMIT scientists aim to develop methods of using these hot, saline waters for combined desalination and power generation.”

Mr Miller said that, when fully developed, the technology could be used to manufacture small-scale dual geothermal systems, resulting in a boost for local industry and employment as well as providing the potential for significant export opportunities.

“Water and clean energy loom large as major challenges facing not only Australia but the entire world, and RMIT and Greenearth Energy are aiming to pave the way for the development of small-scale geothermal power and desalination units delivering up to 100KW of emissions free power and 75,000 litres of fresh water per day.” He said.

“We believe that such units could be deployed in remote areas where access to power and fresh water are limited.

“Greenearth Energy is proud of the relationship with RMIT’s School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, which has the potential to deliver benefits for Australia and ultimately the rest of the world. This is an example of the value of working partnerships between universities and industry,” Mr Miller said.

A submission was made to the Australia Research Council (ARC) late last year with the result of a grant being offered to RMIT and Greenearth Energy to support this important research project for a period of three years. Documentation and project plans are being reviewed at present. It is envisaged a further announcement will be made upon execution of the documentation.

Source: Company release on website