The pilot site for geo-thermal energy generation in Western Australia is bubbling along, reportedly operating better than expected.

Australian geothermal energy developer Geodynamics says its 1 megawatt pilot plant at Innamincka, featuring the deepest lying geothermal resources ever exploited, is working even better than planned: “The commissioning of the 1 MW Pilot Plant and successful operation of the trial is a major advancement in EGS (enhanced geothermal systems, or ‘hot rocks’) technology globally,” a company statement has said, “we are very pleased with the performance of the plant during the trial and in particular the performance of the Habanero-4 well, the most productive well yet drilled by Geodynamics.”

“The operation of the plant has met or exceeded all planned operational parameters, demonstrating stable and effective control of the closed brine loop, and high reliability and availability of the steam generation and turbine system,” the statement went on to say.

The company says its trial demonstrates the practical capability of EGS resources to supply reliable long term power. The work is reportedly attracting significant interest in Australia and overseas, proving the potential to consistent, large-scale baseload power. 

The WA plant has gained some renown as one of the deepest such sites anywhere in the world.

Geothermal energy using this technology is extremely long lasting, providing the interior of the earth remains relatively hot, and can be harnessed with zero carbon emissions.