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Thermoluminescence Techniques in Geothermal Exploration and Integrated Evaluation System of Geothermal Reservoir

Environment / Energy (Carbon Neutrality)

Republic of El Salvador

Thermoluminescence Techniques in Geothermal Exploration and Integrated Evaluation System of Geothermal Reservoir

Identify and promote use of geothermal reservoir with leading-edge exploration technology

Principal Investigator

- Prof. Emeritus / Visiting Prof.
  TSUCHIYA Noriyoshi
  Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Tohoku University / President of National Institute of Technology (KOSEN), Hachinohe College
- Prof.
  Edgar Armando Peña Figueroa
  Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, University of El Salvador

ODA Recipient Country

Republic of El Salvador

Research Institutions in Japan

Tohoku University / The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) / Iwate University / Geothermal Engineering Co.

Research Institutions in Counterpart Country

Universidad de El Salvador / LaGeo

Adoption fiscal year

FY 2017

Research Period

5 Years

Overview of the Research Project

Promote development of geothermal energy by applying the latest exploration methods
El Salvador does not have oil resources, making the development of renewable energy essential for energy security. Interest in utilization and technological development of geothermal energy as base load power source* is gaining momentum. This project will promote geothermal development in the country by efficient exploration of geothermal reservoir at a reasonable cost using thermoluminescence method developed in Japan. An integrated QGIS system will be developed to conduct research on potential geothermal reservoirs.

* Base load power source: Power source that can supply certain volume of power stably at a low cost regardless of season, weather or time of day

Contribute to geothermal power development and CO₂ emissions reduction in Latin America
This project will promote geothermal energy in El Salvador by selection of four prospective sites, and application and review of the newly developed technology. Furthermore, the national geothermal power generator LaGeo will conduct exploration using thermoluminescence in Latin American countries, which is expected to contribute to geothermal power development and reduction of CO₂ emissions across Latin America.