Abstract:
Estimation of efficiency of a geothermal power plant is a subject of debate with regards to the best method that should be applied. This paper sets the case that different methods are applicable and is dependent on the objective of calculation. During geothermal project development, it may be necessary to use conversion efficiency to get a realistic estimate of electricity production from a given estimate of the reservoir capacity for geothermal systems. Optimization of power plant operations on the other hand may require the use of utilization efficiency to achieve maximum benefit for the power plant operations. Binary power plant operation is described and further analyzed to review their conversion efficiencies. Published data from thirty-five (35) binary power plants are used to compare existing correlations and develop a new correlation that can be used to estimate production output from a reservoir during pre-feasibility studies. The results show more accurate conversion efficiency can be generated when the effect of reinjection temperature is taken into account.