Geothermal energy stands as a unique and powerful source of renewable power, offering the reliability of baseload generation that other intermittent sources like solar and wind cannot. As the world seeks to decarbonize and secure its energy future, harnessing the Earth's constant internal heat has become a top priority for governments and investors alike. However, the path to developing a successful geothermal project is complex, requiring a sophisticated blend of geological expertise, advanced engineering, and a deep understanding of unique business models and financial risks. This course is meticulously designed to bridge the gap between technical understanding and commercial viability, empowering professionals to turn vast underground potential into profitable, sustainable energy projects.

This program goes beyond a theoretical overview to provide a practical, hands-on roadmap for every stage of a geothermal project, from initial resource exploration to plant operation and asset management. Participants will gain actionable insights into cutting-edge technologies like Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) and binary cycle power plants, which are expanding the resource potential to new locations. By focusing on real-world case studies of successful projects and covering crucial topics like project financing, risk mitigation, and market analysis, the course prepares attendees to lead, invest in, and develop geothermal projects with confidence and competence, positioning them to be at the forefront of the next energy frontier.

Duration: 10 days

Target Audience:

• Geologists and Geophysicists
• Geothermal Engineers and Technicians
• Energy Project Developers
• Financial Analysts and Investors
• Government Policymakers and Regulators
• Utility and Power Generation Managers
• Business Development Professionals
• Environmental and Sustainability Consultants
• Researchers in Renewable Energy
• Professionals from Oil and Gas transitioning to renewables

Objectives:

• Master the fundamental principles of geothermal geology and resource exploration.
• Understand the core components and operations of different geothermal power plant technologies.
• Learn to conduct a comprehensive techno-economic feasibility study for a geothermal project.
• Grasp the unique business models and financing structures for geothermal ventures.
• Develop proficiency in assessing and mitigating exploration and project risks.
• Explore best practices in environmental and social impact assessment.
• Learn about robust approaches to leveraging analytics for efficiency gains.
• Identify the critical ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations in data management.
• Develop skills in visualizing data for clear and compelling insights.
• Formulate strategies for a data-driven approach to energy transition.

Course Modules:

Module 1: Fundamentals of Geothermal Energy

• The geological origins of geothermal heat
• Hydrothermal, petrothermal, and hybrid systems
• The concept of a geothermal reservoir
• Baseload power and its market value
• The role of geothermal in a diversified energy mix

Module 2: Geological Exploration and Resource Assessment

• Geophysical and geochemical surveys
• The importance of well logging and reservoir modeling
• The value of a clear and focused research question
• Introduction to geofluid and rock analysis
• Estimating the size and longevity of a resource

Module 3: Drilling and Well Technology

• The science and engineering of geothermal drilling
• Well completion and casing design
• Managing high-pressure and high-temperature conditions
• Advanced directional drilling techniques
• The role of well maintenance and workovers

Module 4: Dry Steam Power Plants

• Principles of dry steam technology
• Components and operational flow
• Case studies of existing dry steam plants
• Advantages and disadvantages of this technology
• Maintenance and efficiency considerations

Module 5: Flash Steam Power Plants

• Principles of single and double flash systems
• The process of "flashing" geothermal fluid
• Components of a flash steam plant
• Optimal conditions for flash technology
• Environmental and efficiency considerations

Module 6: Binary Cycle Power Plants

• Principles of binary cycle technology
• The role of a secondary working fluid
• Key advantages for lower-temperature resources
• The closed-loop system and its environmental benefits
• The importance of a clear and consistent reporting style

Module 7: Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS)

• The concept of artificially creating a reservoir
• The process of hydraulic stimulation
• Key challenges and future potential of EGS
• The role of seismic monitoring
• EGS projects and global development trends

Module 8: Direct Use and District Heating

• The many applications of geothermal heat
• Economics of district heating and cooling
• Industrial process heat and agricultural uses
• The role of geothermal heat pumps
• Integrating direct use with power generation

Module 9: Project Development Lifecycle

• From preliminary survey to project closure
• The role of feasibility studies and due diligence
• Permitting and regulatory processes
• Timelines and critical path analysis
• The importance of a clear and consistent reporting style

Module 10: Geothermal Business Models

• The role of a "digital" framework
• Public vs. private sector development models
• Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
• Revenue streams and off-taker agreements
• The role of a program's theory of change

Module 11: Geothermal Project Finance

• Understanding the project cost structure (CAPEX vs. OPEX)
• Financing options: equity, debt, and grants
• The role of multilateral development banks
• Capital asset pricing models and risk assessment
• Financial modeling for geothermal projects

Module 12: Risk Management and Mitigation

• Geological and resource risk assessment
• Financial and market risk mitigation
• Managing political and regulatory risk
• The role of insurance and guarantee mechanisms
• Lessons learned from real-world project failures

Module 13: Supply Chain and Procurement

• The global supply chain for geothermal equipment
• Sourcing of specialized drilling rigs and services
• The role of a "risk and mitigation" plan
• The importance of local content and capacity building
• Case studies on effective framework design

Module 14: Environmental and Social Governance (ESG)

• The environmental impacts of geothermal development
• Air and water quality management
• The importance of a clear and compelling KPI
• The role of a simple scorecard and a dashboard
• Land use and community relations

Module 15: Policy and Regulation

• The role of government in de-risking projects
• Feed-in tariffs and other incentives
• The importance of a clear and focused framework
• Permitting and licensing reform
• The role of a "data story map"

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.