Collaborative Geothermal course between GNS and JOGMEC a big hit
Exploring the Depths was a four-day Geothermal Chemistry Course jointly conducted by GNS Science and JOGMEC.
Japan and NZ knowledge exchange
Since 2015, GNS and JOGMEC, Japan’s organisation promoting geothermal development, have been collaborating under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) focusing on scientific innovation and personnel exchange. JOGMEC provides grants to Japanese companies for the promotion of geothermal development and also plays a significant role in human resource development.
As part of this initiative, GNS and JOGMEC jointly held Exploring the Depths, a Geothermal Geochemistry course in Taupō, with GNS professionals serving as lecturers.
Exploring the depths
The course, run over four days from 18 – 20 November was attended by a cohort of 11 Japanese geothermal development engineers, representing major Japanese developers such as Idemitsu Kosan, Mitsubishi Materials, Obayashi Corporation, Mitsui, Sumitomo, INPEX, and JOGMEC itself. Participants were given an introduction to geochemistry in geothermal exploration, lectures on geochemical sampling data analysis and the application of geochemistry to reservoir modelling.
Visits to power stations, including Wairakei and Tauhara (where a new power station is under construction) and Mokai, an example of multi-phase geothermal use were included as part of the course. Participants also had the opportunity to visit Kuirau Park in Rotorua where various geothermal surface signs caused by geochemical reactions can be seen.
An event held on November 20 which was attended by GNS scientists, representatives from Contact Energy, Fuji Electric, Halcyon, MB Century and other stakeholders was a great chance for the course participants to network.
The Exploring the Depths course was a great opportunity to forge deeper links and share knowledge between GNS, JOGMEC and the rest of the Japanese geothermal sector. The participants brought enthusiasm to our classroom and field sessions covering the use of geochemical techniques in geothermal exploration and development
High praise
The course received high praise from the participants, saying that they found the course very useful and would love for it to be continued next year and beyond. Many of the participants said they would provide feedback internally and encourage their team members to attend should the course be held again. Participants were able to gain an understanding of GNS’ knowledge and capabilities and look forward to working with GNS in areas beyond training in the future.
“I hope we were able to showcase some of the unique aspects of the geothermal sector here in Aotearoa. Personally my biggest takeaway was how lucky we are to have such an array of talent and knowledge at GNS. It was a privilege to watch my colleagues deliver science content in their areas of expertise, and to experience the support of those working in business, administration and communications who made it possible” said David Byrne.
