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West Indies Power receives EIA approval for drilling in Dominica

West Indies Power receives EIA approval for drilling in Dominica West Indies Power drilling rig (source: WIP)
Alexander Richter 18 Aug 2011

West Indies Power receives EIA approval to start exploratory slim hole drilling in the Soufriere Valley in Dominca, Caribbean.

In an announcement by the company last week, West Indies Power reports it has received Environmental Impact
Statement (EIA) approval, which enables the company to begin exploratory “slim hole” drilling in the Soufriere Valley, Dominica, in order to determine conditions of the geothermal reservoir in that area, has been approved by the Government of Dominica.

The drilling plan conducted by West Indies Power (Dominica) Ltd. calls for the drilling of 2-3 “slim holes” to a depth of 1000m. Slim holes are 2-6 inch wells that are drilled to test for temperature, pressure, and solution chemistry. The results of these tests will allow WIP to determine the size and composition of the geothermal reservoir and to begin
designing the geothermal power plant to use those geothermal solutions.

Construction of the drill sites will begin in 4th quarter of 2011 and drilling is planned for 2nd quarter of 2012. It will employ both foreign contractors and Dominican workers.

Kerry McDonald, CEO of WIP, stated “ WIP is pleased to have been granted the right be able to begin drilling in Soufriere. For years people have suspected that there is a geothermal reservoir in this area and now we will be able to finally prove it’s existence.”

Source: Company release via e-mail