Renewable Energy Sources

Puna Geothermal Venture (PGV)

Geothermal Energy

  • LOCATION: Puna, Hawaii Island (Kilauea East Rift Zone)

  • ENERGY SOURCE: Geothermal steam and hot liquid

  • TECHNOLOGY: Steam turbine generators

  • CONTRACT CAPACITY: 38 megawatts

  • POWER PURCHASE TYPE: Firm and as available

  • DESCRIPTION: PGV is a geothermal energy conversion plant bringing steam and hot liquid up through underground wells.  The hot liquid (brine) is not used for electricity at this time.  The steam is directed to a turbine generator that produces electricity.

    The exhaust steam from this turbine is used to vaporize (heat) an organic working fluid, which drives a second turbine, generating additional electricity. The condensed steam from the organic fluid heat exchanger is re-injected into the ground through reinjection wells along with the brine.

    The electricity generated by PGV is sold to Hawaiian Electric and distributed to customers.

More information about Puna Geothermal Venture.