Geothermal Energy Country Update 2020-2022 of Madagascar

Energy engineering

Geothermal research in Madagascar has been conducted by for academic or economic purpose. Reconnaissance surveys have focused on geology, geochemistry, hydrology and geophysics with the aim of elucidating subsurface temperatures and the spatial extent of the geothermal systems. The country counts about 120 thermal springs whose emergence temperature varies between 30 and 57°C. Geothermal systems in Madagascar can be grouped into volcanotectonic and tectonic types. Geothermal Resources of medium temperature exist in the recent volcanic areas, mainly in the north and the central part of the country. Subsurface temperatures were sometimes indirectly determined. Some corrections have been operated, on measured or deducted temperature values from suitable geochemical tools. Subsurface temperatures up to 154 °C have been predicted by geothermometry and mixing models. The estimated generation potential for the country is about 350 MW. There are many important zones where the geothermal energy could be more interesting for agriculture (greenhouses), aquacultures, heating and refrigeration (heat pumps), etc. Direct uses of geothermal heats, both for drying and cooling, may provide economic gains for local farmers provided that working capital can be made accessible. Available geothermal heats from existing geothermal energy can be used for drying and cooling of tropical fruits and vegetables grown in the Antsirabe and Itasy cities. Steam or hot water available from small geothermal heat pump is combined with active and passive solar utilization methods. A preliminary study is conducted by the University team, to dry jerked banana spike and ananas. The heat pump, a reverse one, is used for heating and cooling houses. Geothermal water of about 46°C is used for this purpose. Currently, geothermal water is used for bathing, swimming pools, balneology, tourism, potable water bottling and washing with little economic return. Electricity production from geothermal water is also planned. A foreign private company attempts to install the first binary cycle power plant near Antsirabe and Itasy.

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