New geothermal in central N.I. to be tested

Press, 28 February 1986, Page 29

New geothermal in central N.I. to be tested

By <

OLIVER RIDDELL

in Wellington

The D.S.I.R. has discovered a new geothermal field near Mangakino in the central North Island.

A survey of the area has revealed a zone of at least five kilometres that indicates a new field. To test the possibilities, the Ministry of Energy has commissioned the Ministry of Works to drill a shallow test well.

Trouble in controlling the test drill indicated to the D.S.I.R. geothermal co-ordinator,. Mr Tom Lumb, that there might be geothermal fluid.

He said the scientists were unable to say at this stage how significant the field was, but hoped it would be a major find, and the large accumulations of gas found during the drilling were a good sign.

Further investigations

would seek the potential of the field, its life span, and how much energy could be drawn from it The project was to see at what rate energy could be extracted during a 25year period. The studies would also determine whether a power station or some other major development was feasible on the site. Mr Lumb said the scientists would also investigate possible environmental consequences from development. One of the reasons for giving studies of the Mangakino field priority was its proximity to the Kinleith pulp and paper mill, a possible user of geothermal steam. The field would also have potential for domestic and light industrial use such as drying crops, heating greenhouses, homes and swimming pools, he said. ■. 1 •