As the lead developer on several geothermal projects in the US, IAE has the understanding and know-how to successfully develop and manage geothermal projects. IAE has comprehensive in-house experience in all aspects of geothermal development including resource exploration and management, well field development and power plant design, construction, start-up, commissioning and operation.
In addition to IAE’s current projects, IAE’s staff has worked on geothermal project development in the Philippines, Japan, California, Nevada, Alaska and El Salvador and has access to great geothermal technical resources through its major shareholder Reykjavik Energy Invest. IAE’s unique group of shareholders enables IAE to match Iceland’s world class know how and technological expertise with an in depth insight into the US renewable energy market with the aim of duplicating the Icelandic experience in North America.
Resource Assessment, Development and Management
IAE has the experience and expertise needed to assess and develop geothermal resources and implement a strategic development plan designed to maximize resource potential. IAE evaluates the available geoscientific data and if needed, gathers more information on the system through geophysical studies to develop a comprehensive resource model. Once a resource model is in place, IAE will build a strategic plan aimed at utilizing the resource in an optimal, sustainable manner.
Time schedules and budgets for the execution of the project are based on resource information, IAE’s experience and data. Wellfield design is done by IAE’s technical department while IAE hires sub-contractors to drill required wells. IAE also undertakes identifying transmission needs, negotiatiating PPA agreements and obtaining all necessary permits. IAE’s project management department has experience in preparing RFP documents for power plant design and construction and has the resources to handle procurement of equipment and services for the power plant and manage all subcontractors. Once construction, start-up and commissioning are completed, IAE can either continue to manage the operations of the plant or hand the plant over to another entity.
Feasibility Evaluation
When determining the feasibility of a geothermal project, IAE uses a two tiered approach. First an initial pre-feasibility or reconnaissance study is performed. The purpose of the reconnaissance study is to determine whether further, more expensive study is warranted. The study provides a general description of the geothermal resource using available literature and prior studies. The current energy infrastructure in the area is analyzed to identify potential opportunities for geothermal development. An initial economic assessment is performed based on project specific information and IAE´s data and knowledgebase of geothermal development costs. The economic evaluation is combined with a study of potential benefits and barriers to produce final recommendations for the project. The resulting Reconnaissance Study report can be used to decide whether the project should move ahead to a more detailed feasibility study.
If the results of the reconnaissance study are positive, IAE embarks on a more comprehensive feasibility study. This study consists of a detailed analysis of the resource, including for instance resistivity and magnetic telluric (MT) surveys. IAE´s technical department will evaluate the survey results and develop a preliminary geothermal resource model for the area. IAE will complete a preliminary design of the project and perform a thorough economic evaluation of the potential geothermal development. Land ownership, permits, environmental and potential energy purchase agreement issues will be addressed. As part of the feasibility study IAE will research relevant local, state and federal energy policies and identify possible funding opportunities and renewable energy credits, if available. The final feasibility report presents the results of our analysis and includes recommendations on next steps.
Project Management
IAE has considerable experience in geothermal project management. If you are interested in developing a geothermal prospect but lack the in-house expertise to take on the project, IAE is the right partner for your organization. IAE can take the lead role in the management of projects or provide consulting services for all management tasks.
Grant Applications
Geothermal projects may be eligible for funding from government agencies through various renewable and sustainability energy programs. IAE is well acquainted with these programs and the processes to obtain available funds. IAE has the expertise to identify whether such funding opportunities are available for your geothermal project and can write and submit grant applications on your behalf to the relevant agencies.
Geothermal Education
In many instances organizations lack the geothermal educational background to successfully develop geothermal energy projects. IAE, with its extensive experience in geothermal can provide geothermal education and information through lectures for both small and large audiences. The various aspects of geothermal development, including but not limited to resource assessment, financing, land acquisition, policy and power conversion technologies can be presented at an appropriate level of detail for the target audience.
Iceland America Energy is a prime partner for anyone looking to develop a geothermal resource. If you have any questions or are interested in talking with us, please give us a call or send us an email.
| 
