Feasibility study for a mini geothermal power plant in the Woulndé area, Adamawa, Cameroon: environmental and socio-economic impacts

This paper unveils a feasibility study for a 5 MW geothermal power plant in the Woulndé area of Adamawa, Cameroon. The objective of this project is to investigate the design of a mini power plant that may produce electricity from the Earth’s temperature while adhering to environmental regulations and avoiding greenhouse gas emissions. It highlights some of the socio-economic and environmental impacts, as well as the parameters relevant to the design of the power plant, together with an economic assessment of the project. The design of the geothermal power plant includes two production boreholes and an injection borehole. These boreholes, with a depth of 2650 m, have flow rates of 2 × 67.5 l/s for production and 135 l/s for injection. The utilization of geothermal energy, which is a sustainable resource, complies with global initiatives to mitigate the release of greenhouse gases. Furthermore, the plant’s operation is expected to generate considerable carbon credit revenues, estimated at $457,380 annually, accumulating to approximately $4,573,800 over ten years. These revenues contribute to global carbon reduction initiatives while also supporting the project’s financial sustainability. The utilization of clean, renewable energy sources improves the reliability and security of the energy supply in the region. Moreover, the project is likely to create job prospects during both the construction and operational phases, stimulating economic growth in the Adamawa region. However, potential obstacles, such as the substantial initial capital investment need and the rationale for the management of geothermal brines and gases, are also acknowledged in the study. To ensure environmental sustainability, it is suggested that the Organic Rankine Cycle be implemented. As a result, the feasibility study concludes that the ambitious mini-geothermal power plant in Woulndé is a viable project that will generate substantial environmental and socio-economic benefits. This is consistent with Cameroon’s objectives for renewable energy and worldwide sustainability initiatives.