Nicaragua taps volcanoes for alternative energy
Jun 20th, 2008 by Jon Posted in Nicaragua News | No Comments
Could it be a coincidence that on the week when the Masaya volcano erupts, we learn that Nicaragua is seeking suitors for a potential geothermal electricity generation site at the San Cristobal volcano.
The San Cristobal volcano is one of Nicaragua’s most active volcanoes and often expels steam. This also means that San Cristobal, though active, appears relatively stable thanks to the frequent release of pressure. However, heavy rainfalls in 1996 caused seismic disturbances in the region.
As part of an ambitious plan, Nicaragua hopes to eliminate its dependence on fuel burning power plants in 5 years and to run completely on alternative sources. Currently Nicaragua generates 80% of its energy from oil and much of it subsidized by Venezuela.
The San Cristobal volcano is expected to generate 225 megawatts of electricity. In contrast, the geothermal project in San Jacinto generates 34 megawatts.
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