Economic analysis of heat transmission from low temperature geothermal sources

Abstract

The costs of transmitting low temperature geothermal water (150–300°F) was evaluated as a function of well head temperature, distance between the geothermal field and the energy usage site, and total energy demand of the system. It was found that transmission was not practical beyond 2–3 miles and that economies of scale are very important. Energy demand should be above 50 × 10⁶ B.t.u/hr. For drying operations located within a 3 mile radius of a 270°F geothermal source, energy costs are within the $1.50–$3.00/10⁶ B.t.u. range and could become competitive.