Modular Wellheads: An Efficient Solution for Small-Scale Geothermal Power Plants
The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), in collaboration with PT Geo Dipa Energi (Persero), is developing modular wellhead technology as a more flexible, efficient, and quickly implemented solution for small-scale geothermal power plants (PLTP).
Current PLTP technology generally relies on conventional methods, which require large-scale infrastructure, high investment costs, and relatively long construction times.
To address these challenges, BRIN, through the Energy Conversion Technology Research Center (PRTKE) and PT Geo Dipa Energi, is developing modular wellhead technology to convert geothermal energy into electricity.
The Head of BRIN's PRTKE, Tata Sutardi, stated that BRIN has built a small-scale PLTP pilot project by involving domestic industry in the manufacture of turbines and generators.
"This small-scale PLTP can be used for small-capacity wells, thereby accelerating the payback period and accelerating electricity availability," he said at the signing of the Cooperation Agreement at Building 720, BRIN's B.J. Habibie Science and Technology Area (KST), Serpong, on Tuesday (April 7).
He added that the development of small-scale geothermal power plants (PLTPs) needs to be pushed towards industrialization to support product downstreaming and strengthen the domestic component industry. Indonesia's vast geothermal potential is expected to be optimally utilized through stakeholder involvement and strengthening the national industry.
Ilen Kardani, Director of Commercial Development and Exploration at PT Geo Dipa Energi, explained that modular wellhead technology can be applied to wells with small capacities, for example 2–3 megawatts (MW). This technology allows the generator to be installed directly near the wellhead, thereby reducing energy loss during steam transport and lowering infrastructure costs.
According to Kardani, modular technology allows the development of power plants without having to wait for large capacities. With a capacity of 2–3 MW, the electricity generated can be used to meet the energy needs of communities around the exploration area. Furthermore, this technology can accelerate the break-even point, generating revenue from electricity sales within approximately two years.
The development of modular wellhead technology is supported by the success of BRIN in developing organic rankine cycle (ORC) geothermal technology at various scales, starting from 2 kW at KST B.J. Habibie, 100 kW in Soreang, Bandung, up to 500 kW in Lahendong, North Sulawesi, as well as a 3 MW flash steam geothermal power plant demo plant in Kamojang, West Java.
