Iceland/Nicaragua Cooperation on Geothermal Energy

By Tobias Lill June 2, 2008 - In a small town outside of Munich, a major investment in a pioneering new type of geothermal energy looks like it may pay off sooner than expected. With oil prices on the rise, Unterhaching's plant could be a model for others worldwide.

The geothermal energy plant in Unterhaching, Bavaria, is Germany's biggest and most modern. Beginning in mid-June -- one year later than planned -- the plant will begin supplying power from deep within the Earth's crust to the German energy network.

The plant is only the second in the world to make use of the so-called Kalina system, which uses a combination of water and ammonia to maximize the amount of power generated by the massive turbines. "This is the most effective way to get electricity out of geothermal energy," says Reinhard Galbas, the plant's technical manager.

As oil prices worldwide soar, experts say geothermal energy's time has come – even in places like Germany, which is hardly known for volcanic hot springs or spurting geysers. As a result, the small town's efforts are being closely watched. The plant is capable of generating 3.4 megawatts of electricity -- or enough to power 10,000 homes, the company claims. That's more than any other German geothermal plant. "Unterhaching's doing pioneering work," says Benjamin Richter, whose firm Rödel und Partner is handling the business aspects of the plant.

For the complete article and pictures, go to http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/0,1518,557125,00.html

O quantum est in rebus inane! / A palabras necias, oídos sordos.

I know the answer! The answer lies within the heart of all mankind! The answer is twelve? I think I'm in the wrong building. - Peanuts (Charles M. Schulz)

That is great, I hope politics does not get in the way of this progress.

This could certainly help Nicaragua achieve energy independence for powering homes and businesses.