Geodynamics completes EIA for Savo Island project
Savo Islands, Solomon Islands (source: flickr/ Graham Crumb, creative commons)
Alexander Richter
21 Feb 2014
Geodynamcis and its JV partner Kentor Energy announce having completed the Enviromental and Social Impact Assessment for the Savo Island geothermal project on the Solomon Islands. The company expects to start exploration drilling as early as mid-2014.
“Geodynamics Limited (ASX: GDY) and joint venture partner Kentor Energy Pty Ltd, a 100% owned subsidiary of KGL Resources (ASX: KGL), announce that the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for the Savo Island Geothermal Power Project has been completed. The ESIA has been submitted to the Solomon Islands Department of Environment, and will be placed on public display for consultation and comment in early March.
The ESIA, which was conducted by Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) provides a detailed assessment of potential environmental and social impacts of the Project’s proposed exploration activities. A further detailed assessment will be undertaken ahead of construction, operation and commissioning activities after exploration drilling as part of the detailed project development stage.
The ESIA report has highlighted that development of the Project would positively impact the Solomon Islands, by replacing imported diesel fuel with a sustainable locally produced electricity supply. This would make the Solomon Islands less dependent on imported fuel, while also increasing reliability of supply at reduced end user prices.
The report also found that the Project would benefit the Solomon Islands economy more broadly by contributing to socio-economic development through direct and indirect employment and training opportunities, as well as increased business and industry opportunities in Honiara and through the greater demand for goods and services to support exploration activities. The development can be undertaken with low impact on the local environment at Savo Island, while providing employment training and small business development opportunities to the local community.
Geodynamics’ CEO Mr Geoff Ward said, “Completing this comprehensive assessment is an important and necessary step in the approvals and permitting process prior to exploration drilling on Savo Island.”
“Throughout this process, engagement with the community, customary landowners, Savo Island House of Chiefs and the Solomon Islands government ministries has been paramount to the successful completion of the work and we are encouraged by the continued support and interest from all stakeholders as the Project progresses to the exploration drilling phase.”
The joint venture, with Geodynamics as Operator, plans to commence its initial exploration drilling campaign at four well locations in mid 2014. The joint venture will provide further updates as activities continue to progress in the region.”
Source: Geodynamics (pdf)
