What are the best practices for minimizing water consumption and waste in geothermal operations?

1 Water efficiency

One of the main ways to reduce water use in geothermal operations is to improve the water efficiency of the equipment and processes. This can include using closed-loop or dry cooling systems, recycling and reusing water for multiple purposes, installing low-flow devices and sensors, and optimizing the injection pressure and flow rate. Water efficiency can also reduce the energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions of geothermal operations, as well as the costs of water acquisition and disposal.

2 Water quality

Another important aspect of minimizing water waste in geothermal operations is to protect the water quality of the source and the receiving environment. This can include using non-toxic or biodegradable drilling fluids, treating or filtering the geothermal fluids before reinjection or discharge, monitoring and controlling the salinity, temperature, and pH of the water, and preventing leaks and spills. Water quality can also affect the performance and lifespan of the geothermal equipment, as well as the health and safety of the workers and the communities.

3 Water governance

A third best practice for minimizing water consumption and waste in geothermal operations is to adhere to the water governance frameworks and standards of the host country and the industry. This can include obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, complying with the regulations and guidelines, reporting and disclosing the water use and impacts, and engaging with the stakeholders and the public. Water governance can also enhance the social acceptance and legitimacy of geothermal projects, as well as the accountability and transparency of the operators.

4 Water assessment

A fourth best practice for minimizing water consumption and waste in geothermal operations is to conduct a comprehensive and systematic water assessment of the project. This can include identifying and quantifying the water sources, demands, and impacts, evaluating the water risks and opportunities, comparing the water performance and benchmarks, and developing and implementing the water management plans and actions. Water assessment can also support the decision-making and optimization of geothermal operations, as well as the continuous improvement and innovation.

5 Water education

A fifth best practice for minimizing water consumption and waste in geothermal operations is to promote and facilitate water education and awareness among the staff, the partners, and the public. This can include providing training and guidance on water efficiency and quality, sharing best practices and lessons learned, communicating the water benefits and challenges of geothermal energy, and collaborating with other stakeholders and experts. Water education can also foster a culture of water stewardship and responsibility, as well as a positive image and reputation of geothermal energy.

6 Water innovation

A sixth best practice for minimizing water consumption and waste in geothermal operations is to explore and adopt new technologies and solutions that can enhance the water performance and sustainability of geothermal energy. This can include using alternative or renewable water sources, such as seawater, wastewater, or rainwater, developing new or improved cooling or drilling systems, applying digital or smart tools for water monitoring and control, and integrating geothermal energy with other renewable or low-carbon technologies. Water innovation can also create new opportunities and value for geothermal energy, as well as reduce the dependence and vulnerability on water resources.