wiredinUSA August 2014

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An Australian company is hoping to use thermal power from a Solomon Islands volcano to provide electricity to the country’s capital, Honiara. Savo Island’s volcano last erupted more than 100 years ago but steam escaping from its vents can often be seen fromHoniara, on the much larger island of Guadalcanal where power failures are not uncommon. If the project is successful, power will be delivered to Honiara via a 14km undersea cable between the two islands. The Brisbane-based Geodynamics Ltd and its joint venture partner Kentor Energy Pty Ltd told the Australian stock exchange that the granting of development consent by the Solomon Islands government follows a review of their environmental and social Volcano power?

impact assessment and their environmental management plans. “The next key step for us is to undertake exploration drilling on the island to prove the existence of a geothermal reserve capable of supporting the project,” Geodynamic's chief executive officer Geoff Ward said. “Our initial exploration studies have identified a resource in excess of 30 megawatts potential on Savo Island,”MrWardcontinued. “That would be enough to supply all of Honiara’s demand and a significant part of its future demand.” At present most of Honiara’s power comes fromdiesel generators, and fuel imports make up about 20 percent of the Solomon Islands’ total import bill.

ASIA / AFRICA NEWS

wiredInUSA - August 2014

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