Economic Feasibility Study of the Geothermal Project for the Naval Station, Adak, Alaska
Abstract
The Adak Geothermal Project is concerned with the use of geothermal energy as a possible alternative to the present fossil fuel energy system on Adak. Three different types of geothermal energy systems, each based on an assumed different reservoir temperature range, are considered. These systems, which could supply the facilities on Adak with energy for space heating or complete electrical power including electrical heating, are: (1) space heating using either above-ground insulated fiberglass pipelines or in-ground insulated steel pipelines, (2) direct electrical power generation using geothermal fluids either at a central power plant or via individual wellhead generating units, either system producing 25 MWe gross output, or (3) a binary geothermal electrical power generation facility where the geothermal fluids would heat a secondary (binary) fluid which would operate the electrical generating equipment, producing a 25 MWe gross output. The cost of each system was analyzed, and cost-effectiveness was determined by comparing the investment cost with projected fuel savings. An investment return (payback period) for each system was determined using an 8% annual fuel escalation factor. A comparison was made between the Navy price for JP-5 aviation fuel (main fuel on Adak) and the apparent real cost of this type fuel to other remote regions in Alaska. This gave comparative payback costs of this type of energy system if developed by private industry.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA076341
Entities
People
- James L. Bruce
Organizations
- Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake