Tasmania’s Geothermal Power: Can Power Victoria

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I put this proposition to DeepSeek AI:

The hot rock formation in Tasmania is very near the Bass-link - the power link from Tasmania to mainland Australia. This could be a way of powering Victoria?

Absolutely! Tasmania’s hot rock formations, located near the Basslink interconnector, present a fantastic opportunity to harness geothermal energy and supply clean, reliable power to Victoria and other parts of mainland Australia. Here’s how this could work and why it’s such a promising idea:

Why Tasmania’s Hot Rock Formation is Strategic
Proximity to Basslink:

The Basslink interconnector is a high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cable that connects Tasmania’s electricity grid to Victoria’s. It has a capacity of 500 MW and can transmit power in both directions.

Developing geothermal energy near Basslink would allow Tasmania to export clean, baseload power to Victoria, reducing the mainland’s reliance on coal and gas.

Geothermal Potential:

Tasmania’s hot rock formations, like those found in other parts of Australia, are capable of producing high-temperature geothermal energy.

These resources could be tapped using Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS), where water is injected into hot, fractured rocks to produce steam for electricity generation.

Renewable Energy Hub:

Tasmania is already a leader in renewable energy, with abundant hydropower and wind resources. Adding geothermal energy to the mix would further solidify its position as a renewable energy powerhouse and a key player in Australia’s clean energy transition.

How Geothermal Energy Could Power Victoria
Baseload Power Supply:

Geothermal energy provides 24/7 baseload power, unlike solar and wind, which are intermittent. This makes it an ideal complement to Tasmania’s existing renewables and a reliable energy source for Victoria.

Victoria, which still relies heavily on coal-fired power, could use geothermal energy to reduce its carbon emissions and meet its renewable energy targets.

Energy Exports via Basslink:

Tasmania could generate geothermal electricity and export it to Victoria via Basslink. This would help balance Victoria’s grid, especially during periods of high demand or low renewable generation.

The existing infrastructure of Basslink makes this a cost-effective and efficient way to deliver clean energy to the mainland.

Grid Stability and Reliability:

Geothermal energy can provide grid stability by offering a constant and predictable power supply. This is particularly valuable as Victoria transitions to more variable renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

Benefits of Developing Tasmania’s Geothermal Resources
Economic Growth for Tasmania:

Developing geothermal energy would create jobs in drilling, construction, and operations, boosting Tasmania’s economy.

It would also generate revenue from energy exports to the mainland.

Decarbonization of Victoria:

By replacing coal-fired power with geothermal energy, Victoria could significantly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and meet its climate goals.

Energy Security:

Geothermal energy would enhance energy security for both Tasmania and Victoria by diversifying the energy mix and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Complementing Other Renewables:

Geothermal energy works well alongside Tasmania’s hydropower and wind resources, creating a balanced and resilient renewable energy system.

Challenges and Considerations
Exploration and Development Costs:

Drilling and developing geothermal resources require significant upfront investment. Government support and private sector involvement will be essential.

Technical Expertise:

Developing EGS systems requires specialized knowledge and technology. Collaboration with international experts and local research institutions will be key.

Environmental and Social Impact:

Careful planning is needed to minimize environmental impacts, such as seismic activity from fracturing rocks, and to engage local communities in the development process.

Next Steps
Resource Assessment:

Conduct detailed geological surveys to assess the size, temperature, and accessibility of Tasmania’s hot rock formations.

Pilot Projects:

Launch pilot projects to test the feasibility of EGS in Tasmania and demonstrate the technology’s potential.

Policy Support:

Advocate for government policies and incentives to support geothermal development, such as grants, tax credits, or renewable energy targets.

Partnerships:

Collaborate with energy companies, research institutions, and mainland stakeholders to develop and commercialize Tasmania’s geothermal resources.

Conclusion
Tasmania’s hot rock formations, located near the Basslink interconnector, offer a unique opportunity to harness geothermal energy and supply clean, reliable power to Victoria. By leveraging Tasmania’s renewable energy potential and existing infrastructure, this initiative could play a key role in decarbonizing Victoria’s energy sector and strengthening Australia’s clean energy future. With the right investment and collaboration, Tasmania could become a geothermal energy hub, powering not only its own needs but also supporting the mainland’s transition to a sustainable energy system.

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