The Possibility of Purchasing an Already Built Geothermal Power Plant

The desire to acquire an already built geothermal power plant is a common inquiry in the renewable energy community. However, it’s essential to understand that the process of purchasing and acquiring such facilities involves various complexities and considerations. This article aims to explore the possibilities, costs, and the realities of acquiring an existing geothermal power plant.

Options for Acquiring Existing Plants

When considering the purchase of an existing geothermal power plant, it’s important to determine whether you are looking for a new installation or a plant that is already in operation. Power plants are often sold as capital assets and as part of corporate reorganizations. However, finding a suitable geothermal power plant for sale can be challenging. Unlike turnkey installations, geothermal plants are typically one-of-a-kind designs, often requiring detailed customization for specific sites.

Where to Look

There are several avenues to explore when searching for an existing geothermal power plant:

Power Generation Industry Portals: Secure Online, a reliable portal for buying and selling products and services in the power generation industry, offers a platform to find and purchase existing plants. Aftermarket Sites: Marketplaces dedicated to selling surplus and refurbished components for power plants can also be valuable sources for smaller, adaptable geothermal modules. Corporate Reorganizations: Keep an eye on restructuring announcements from companies involved in the geothermal sector, as these can sometimes lead to opportunities for purchasing.

Cost Considerations

The costs associated with acquiring an existing geothermal power plant can vary significantly. Here are some key cost factors to consider:

Drilling Costs

One of the most significant expenses in the early stages of a geothermal plant is drilling. The costs can range from $2.5 to 3.5 million US dollars to reach a depth of 5000 to 6000 meters. This cost varies based on the depth and complexity of the drilling required.

Capital Costs

The capital costs associated with a geothermal power plant, including drilling, fabrication, and installation, can range from $2800 US per kW installed. These costs are further influenced by local market conditions, materials, and equipment availability.

Lifecycle Costs

The lifecycle costs, which include capital costs, operating costs, maintenance costs, financing interests, depreciation costs, and disposal costs over a period of 40 years, can amount to approximately $44 US per MWh. These costs provide a comprehensive view of the total investment required to operate and maintain the plant over its lifetime.

Realities of Acquiring a Small Geothermal Plant

While the costs and processes for acquiring an existing geothermal power plant can be high, there are smaller, more accessible options available:

Small Plants for Heating: For smaller-scale applications, geothermal plants that are capable of heating a few dozen houses to a single residence can be found. These plants often add significant value to properties and are more easily accessible in the secondary market. Detailed Research: Keep an eye on market trends and news in the geothermal sector to find opportunities for purchasing smaller, more cost-effective installations.

In conclusion, while the cost and complexity of acquiring an existing geothermal power plant can be daunting, there are opportunities and strategies for finding suitable plants, especially for smaller-scale applications. By considering the various cost factors and exploring available avenues, it’s possible to find a geothermal power plant that meets your needs and budget.