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Thailand identifies 5 potential areas for geothermal development

Thailand identifies 5 potential areas for geothermal development Geothermal hot spring at in Mueang Mae Hong Son, Thailand (source: flickr/ Geoff_B, creative commons)
Alexander Richter 18 Jun 2012

Thailand is studying its potential of geothermal power development having identified 112 hot springs in the country and 5 potential areas for development.

A recent report by the Groundwater Resources Department of Thailand, revealed progress in establishing an inventory of geothermal features in Thailand.

The survey was done in a bid to develop the country’s geothermal energy potential for electricity production.

“Mr Praneet Roibang, Director-General of the Department of Groundwater Resources, said that according to its study, the department has so far located over 112 hot springs across the country in such provinces as Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Ranong and Surat Thani. Exploration and development activities are expected to concentrate in 5 potential areas where prototype geothermal energy plants can be set up.

PTT will finance the survey for geothermal energy sources, which is estimated to cost 200 million baht (US$6.3 million). The project is a collaborative venture between the Department of Groundwater Resources, the Department of Alternative Energy Development and Efficiency and the Energy Ministry. 8.5 million baht ($270,000) has been spent to conduct the initial studies.

Mr Praneet elaborated that geothermal power is a renewable energy source with little or no environmental impacts.

The department is expected to begin the drilling operation next month for the geothermal plants, he added.”

Source: Thai News