Mar 8 2010
Energy Development Corporation could become the largest geothermal producer in the world if its objective to add another 300 MW to its current geothermal capacity is achieved. Director of EDC, Federico R. Lopez, said the company is the second largest geothermal energy producer in the world and with its vast experience in 33 years is expecting to achieve this objective within three to five years.
While speaking at an interview, Lopez said the potential reserves for harnessing the additional 300 MW are within its concession areas in Philippines. Lopez further said the Philippines is located within the Pacific Ring of Fire with high potential for power generation through established high-temperature geothermal steam as well as for the unexploited low-temperature geothermal steam.
According to studies conducted by EDC, the Philippines has a potential of up to 6,000 MW of high-temperature geothermal steam and 500 MW of low-temperature geothermal steam. The company also unveiled plans to develop a minimum of five new geothermal power plants.
According to the EDC’s president, Richard B. Tantoco, the company has the opportunity to develop additional 200 MW to 220 MW within its concession areas. According to the Department of Energy, the government aims to increase the 2002 levels of 1,932 MW capacity and achieve an additional 1,070 MW from geothermal resources by 2020. Currently, the country generates 2,027 MW from geothermal energy sources.
Source: http://www.energy.com