Yogyakarta (ANTARA) - A geologist from Gadjah Mada University (UGM), Pri Utami, emphasized the importance of geoscience research before conducting geothermal exploration for the development of geothermal power plants (PLTP).
In her statement in Yogyakarta on Friday, Utami said that geothermal development at the exploration stage carries high investment risks, with drilling costs of around 10 million US dollars per well.
“To reduce these risks, investments in geoscience research - covering geology, geochemistry, and geophysics -are needed to provide a more detailed understanding of subsurface conditions,” she said.
She explained that current geothermal energy development focuses on high-temperature hydrothermal systems in young volcanic areas (Quaternary), with the requirements of hot fluids at 225–300 degrees Celsius, neutral pH in permeable rocks, and depths of 1–3 kilometers.
Although geothermal exploration requires large investments, Utami noted that PLTP projects offer various social and economic benefits.
“From exploration to field development, the projects create significant local job opportunities and open supporting businesses such as catering, accommodation, transportation, and other services,” she said.
In addition, some geothermal fields can produce by-products in the form of minerals that may be processed into fertilizers or plant enhancers. Thus, efforts to boost electricity supply through PLTP also contribute to food security.
However, Utami reminded that geothermal development still poses environmental risks.
Possible impacts include dust from heavy equipment mobilization, noise during drilling, and landscape changes caused by PLTP installations.
She pointed out that mitigation measures such as site cleaning, the use of modern drilling machines, noise-reducing installations, and replanting of temporarily cleared areas can minimize these impacts.
“By cleaning affected areas, installing sound dampeners, using modern drilling equipment, replanting areas temporarily cleared for drilling operations, and many other efforts, the impacts can be reduced,” she explained.
On the social side, Utami highlighted the importance of public education on geothermal energy.
According to her, geothermal is not a commodity like oil, gas, or coal, but rather a competitive energy asset that requires investment in human resources to reduce exploration risks.
“There must be investment in human resources to reduce exploration costs and improve the reliability of utilization technology,” she said.
