Detailed Project Information

Overview of the Chile - Geothermal Power Project USTDA Orientation Visit

USTDA is sponsoring a Business Briefing on September 30, 2007 in Sparks, NV, for the Chile – Geothermal Power Orientation Visit (OV). The purpose of the OV is to facilitate the best possible platform for allowing the U.S. geothermal industry and relevant U.S. government agencies to provide major input to the representatives from Chile.

Come to the Briefing to learn about potential business development opportunities for U.S. companies as Chile is considering new geothermal power development in the Chilean region.  The delegates are investigating U.S. technologies, products, management methodologies, and financing. Meet the key decision-makers and make them aware of your interest in providing your equipment and/or services.

The goal of the OV is to increase the delegate’s awareness and understanding of the U.S. geothermal power sector in terms of related firms, U.S. technologies, and operational models. The planned OV should help in leveling the competitive playing field in this important market.

Chile relies heavily on imports for a significant share of its energy needs. With the steadily growing economy, the energy demand is expected to increase significantly in the next 20 – 30 years. Due to this and other factors, Chile’s geothermal and renewable energy potential has become a much higher and more visible priority. Chilean energy and mining companies have formed a consortium which intends to develop a geothermal concession program with private sector involvement.

After several visits to geothermal sites near Santiago, our sector expert, Dr. Leland Mink discussed the potential for Chilean geothermal energy development. Dr. Mink had also visited the University of Conception to discuss their establishing a Water and Energy Institute to promote reliable and sustainable water and energy development. This program, similar to the one he directed at the University of Idaho for 12 years, would be a beneficial activity for Chile.

The promotion of U.S. – Chilean trade missions in the geothermal power arena has been considered by the Department of State, the Department of Energy (DOE), and TDA. For example, in 2006 through this year, Dr. Mink had served as Manager of DOE’s Geothermal Program. In this capacity, he had worked with the Department of State and DOE’s Geothermal Technologies and International Affairs Programs in considering trade missions to and from Chile.

Chilean policy makers have already entertained the possibility of assistance in the geothermal energy sector from companies in Italy (e.g., ENEI) and Iceland. This TDA sponsored OV is designed to expose the delegates to U.S. capabilities and expertise in the sector, including follow-on discussions with Dr. Mink who is highly familiar with the sector in Chile.

Chilean Delegate List (Click Here)