A hotbed of energy with frequent volcanic occurrences, the Clear Lake Volcanic Field (CLVF) in Northern California that extends 300 sq miles, is an ideal site for geothermal development.
An active player in the geothermal industry, Ignis Energy, has collaborated with Layman Energy Associates to identify geothermal potential in the southern part of Clear Lake, securing leases with local and mineral rights owners. They have conducted preliminary studies to find high-temperature, liquid-dominated geothermal resource that can go up to 60-120 MW. Surface indicators such as gas seepages, thermal water, and hydrothermal mineral deposits, along with past temperature readings as high as 525°F in an offset well, all points towards promising geothermal presence. The partners will be conducting advanced geophysical surveys and additional drilling for confirmation and decide on the next steps accordingly. MT and gravity surveys are scheduled in the area for Q1 2025.
Ignis Energy relies on cutting edge machine learning and advanced artificial intelligence models to analyse vast datasets on seismic activity, geological surveys, thermal gradients and satellite imagery for a smart approach to exploration.
While typical geothermal gradients in CLVF range from 4-6°F per 100 feet, significantly higher temperatures, with gradients reaching 10-30°F per 100 feet, mark certain structural zones, making it particularly suited for geothermal exploration.
The partners have already identified two significant proven geothermal resources post drilling in the CLVF. Besides the Sulfur Bank resource, the Geysers that revealed a generation capacity of about 1,421 MW is touted to be the largest developed geothermal field in the world.