University of Auckland fosters partnership with Indonesia with energy transition seminar
Seminar on "Accelerating a Sustainable Energy Transition with The Geothermal Institute, The University of Auckland" (source: PPSDM Aparatur ESDM)
Gladis Sondakh
6 May 2024
The University of Auckland recently held a seminar on energy transition in Indonesia, fostering a long-standing partnership for geothermal capacity growth.
The Geothermal Institute of the University of Auckland from New Zealand recently hosted a seminar in Indonesia as part of the broader collaboration between the Human Resources Development Agency of Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources Indonesia and The University of Auckland, a partnership that has been fostering educational and professional growth since 2022.
Under the theme “Accelerating a Sustainable Energy Transition with The Geothermal Institute, The University of Auckland,” the seminar underscores the applications of geothermal energy beyond power generation and the work being done to minimize the uncertainty and risks of geothermal project development.
A deep-rooted collaboration
The University of Auckland offers a diverse array of academic and professional development courses in geothermal energy, catering to a range of expertise levels. Prospective students and professionals can choose from programs including Postgraduate Certificates, Bachelor’s Degrees, Master’s Degrees, and Doctoral Degrees, alongside tailor-made training programs designed to meet specific industry needs. These educational opportunities are crucial for building the capacity required to meet Indonesia’s ambitious environmental targets.
Indonesia’s partnership with The University of Auckland has a storied history, especially through the contributions of the Geothermal Institute. This collaboration has yielded a wealth of geothermal expertise, supporting numerous national projects across Indonesia. The enduring relationship underscores a shared commitment to advancing geothermal energy as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
Expanding the scope of geothermal applications
Geothermal energy’s potential extends far beyond traditional electricity generation. The seminar highlighted various innovative applications such as direct uses of geothermal heat, green hydrogen and ammonia production, mineral extraction, and even CO2 sequestration. Each of these applications opens new avenues for business and environmental sustainability, positioning geothermal energy as a versatile player in the energy transition.
Minimizing business risks in geothermal resource assessment
A significant advancement in the field is the development of the Waiwera software by the University of Auckland. This tool represents a leap forward in geothermal resource assessment, employing uncertainty quantification methods that are essential for minimizing business risks, particularly in the early stages of project development. The use of such advanced IT and computer technologies is pivotal in enhancing the precision and efficiency of geothermal projects.
