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Geothermal energy is the natural heat found within the earth — around the globe, temperature increases with depth, typically by 10–50ºC/km. The bulk of this heat is generated from the radioactive decay of naturally occurring potassium, thorium and uranium isotopes. Localised heat sources occur in active volcanic regions where geysers and hot springs are utilised for hydrothermal energy in over 45 countries, including Japan and New Zealand.

South Australia has large regions of interpreted high crustal temperature associated with buried granite intrusives at depths greater than 3 km, and these form key exploration targets. Other targets include:

  • hydrothermal energy from the Great Artesian Basin in northeastern South Australia
  • residual heat sources in the South East around Australia’s most recently active onshore volcanoes
  • potential radiogenic iron oxide deposits, similar to Olympic Dam and Prominent Hill, which may have even higher heat flow than the granites and enhanced natural thermal systems.

The Government of South Australia is now leading Australia with an effective and expeditious geothermal regulatory and approvals framework under the Petroleum Act 2000. The outcomes are astounding and have positive implications for South Australians being enabled to reduce emissions, adapt to the implications of climate change and to benefit from changes expected in future carbon-constrained economic settings.

South Australia’s comparative advantages in the form of:

  • naturally occurring hot rock geothermal resources
  • world-class, government-designed (supportive) investment frameworks
  • exemplary implementation of a trustworthy regulatory regime
  • effective marketing

have attracted over 90% of geothermal investment in Australia. These projects cover a diversity of geological provinces so a range of potential new energy sources are being tested. There has also been strong support by share market investors, including major petroleum exploration and production companies.

Note that this site is currently under review and significant revisions to content are expected soon.