GEOTHERMAL AND GEOSCIENCE CAPACITY BUILDING RESOURCE ASSESSMENT AND ACTION PLAN

Transcription

1 GEOTHERMAL AND GEOSCIENCE CAPACITY BUILDING RESOURCE ASSESSMENT AND ACTION PLAN June 9, 2007 Steven Hirsch Dr. Anis Abdallah Jean Ngizimana WORLD BANK

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS I PROJECT SUMMARY 1 II RWANDAN GEOTHERMAL AND GEO-SCIENTIFIC CONTEXT 2 III WB/RWANDA GEOTHERMAL AND GEO-SCIENTIFIC 2 CAPACITY BUILDING OBJECTIVES IV PROPOSED DUAL TRACK APPROACH A. FAST TRACK URGENT PLAN FOR GEOTHERMAL 3 RESOURCE ASSESSMENT AND PILOT POWER GENERATION B. LONG-TERM INSTITUTION/CAPACITY BUILDING FOR GEOTHERMAL ENERGY AND GEO-SCIENCE DEVELOPMENT 6 V EXISTING INSTITUTIONS IN RWANDA WITH GEOSCIENTIFIC MANDATES, ACTIVITIES OR INTERESTS AND POSSIBLE WORLD BANK CAPACITY-BUILDING SUPPORT A. MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE 14 B. MINISTRY OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND 14 TECHNICAL RESEARCH C. MINISTRY OF LANDS, ENVIRONMENT, FORESTRY, 15 WATER AND MINES D. MINISTRY OF EDUCATION 16 E. OTHER 18 APPENDIX I EXISTING STUDIES ON GEOTHERMAL IN 19 RWANDA APPENDIX II RWANDA FAST TRACK GEOTHERMAL 20 ASSESSMENT AND PILOT PLANT TIMELINE APPENDIX III RWANDA FAST TRACK GEOTHERMAL 23 ASSESSMENT AND PILOT PLANT BUDGET APPENDIX IV RWANDA GEOSCIENTIFIC CENTER BUDGET 24 APPENDIX V RWANDA FAST TRACK GEOTHERMAL 26 LOGICAL FRAMEWORK APPENDIX VI LONG-TERM CAPACITY-BUILDING LOGICAL 27 FRAMEWORK APPENDIX VII AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES WITH GEOSCIENCE 30 COURSES APPENDIX VIII CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE 31 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (GERDC) NGO APPENDIX IX BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON UGANDA S NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF PROFESSIONAL ENVIRONMENTALISTS 32 i

3 APPENDIX X GEOTHERMAL & GEOSCIENTIFIC CONTACTS IN RWANDA AND WORLD BANK APPENDIX XI ILLUSTRATIVE RWANDA 10 YEAR GEOTHERMAL STAFFING PLAN APPENDIX XII KEY US UNIVERSITIES WITH GEOTHERMAL- RELATED COURSES APPENDIX XIII SUGGESTED UNIVERSITY-BASED GEOSCIENCE COURSES APPENDIX XIV SUGGESTED RESOURCE ENGINEERING / WELLFIELD MANAGEMENT TRAINING TOPICS APPENDIX XV SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF KENGEN S GEOTHERMAL PERSONNEL APPENDIX XVI EQUIPMENT NECESSARY FOR GEOTHERMAL ASSESSMENTS APPENDIX XVII MATERIAL AVAILABLE FOR WATER ANALYSIS AT THE CENTRAL LABORATORY OF ELECTROGAZ ii

4 I. Project Summary The action plan described below is in response to a request from the Ministry of Science, Technology and Scientific Research to the World Bank and aims to strengthen Rwandan human and institutional capacity in relation to geo-scientific disciplines, in general, and geothermal energy in particular. It also takes into account that Rwanda is currently experiencing an energy crisis that may be addressed through the use of geothermal energy for power generation. In view of the urgent need for power generation that exists today, the existence of hot springs in the western part of the country that could indicate viable geothermal resources for power generation and the need for geothermal and geo-scientific capacity-building, the World Bank is proposing the following two track, sequential, action plan: A. A Fast-Track URGENT program to identify one or more viable geothermal resources and generate power on a pilot basis within three years. The pilot plant will pave the way for larger-scale geothermal power generation as quickly as possible. The Fast-Track URGENT program will be a short-term initiative that will be managed by a Task Force housed within the Ministry of Infrastructure Energy/Communications. Once the pilot geothermal plant is installed and operating, Rwandan expertise will have been developed and responsibility for planning, tendering, monitoring and operating future, larger-scale geothermal plants may be transferred to a permanent geothermal department, Electrogaz or elsewhere in the Government. B. Long-Term capacity-building for a number of branches of government and the private sector to enable improved oversight and management of mining operations, and applied hydro-geological and geothermal research and project implementation. This initiative, called the Rwanda Geoscientific Center (RGC), could be based in the soon-to-be-established National Agency for Energy in Rwanda (ANER), Mininfra, the Institut de Recherche Scientifique et Technologique (IRST), Ministry of Lands, Environment, Forestry, Water and Mines, or another Rwandan institution and will provide support for human and institutional capacity-building to a wide range of government and private sector agencies on a long-term basis. Capacity-building under the long-term track will be both supply and demand driven as it will focus on strengthening: (a) the ability of existing educational institutions to provide the human resources needed for geoscientific and geothermal applied research and project implementation in Rwanda and (b) the ability of existing, planned and proposed ministries, government and private sector based entities to provide services and implement projects that will increase the use of earth-science-related technologies to bolster the economy of the country on a sustainable basis. The above two tracks will accelerate the studies, tests and drilling that will enable Rwanda to begin to quickly generate electricity on a pilot basis using geothermal energy, and, subsequently, to develop the human and institutional capacity to expand geothermal-based power generation to a much larger scale. 1

5 They will also improve national capabilities to manage mining and hydro-geological activities for increased export-based revenue earnings, increased access to potable water at affordable costs and both large and small hydro power generation respectively. II. Rwandan Geothermal and Geo-Scientific Context A combination of strong growth in power demand with unexpectedly low lake levels in both domestic and shared hydropower resources has led to extensive and lengthy power cuts beginning in early About 15 MW of diesel capacity has been commissioned on an urgent basis, and another MW needs to be added in the next 9 months. The monthly bill for imported petroleum-based fuel has reached US$1 million, excluding duties and taxes. The Government increased the electricity tariff in January 2005 to accommodate the high costs of thermal generation and, again, more recently to 22 USc/kWh. New diesel plants are inevitable in the future in order to maintain supply until sufficient power from methane from Lake Kivu or geothermal energy can be brought on line. Rwandan leaders in the Ministries of Infrastructure, Science and Technology, and Electrogaz have indicated that affordable sources of electric power are needed on an urgent basis to replace the costly, rented thermal power stations. Rwanda does not have a long history of geothermal resource exploration. Existing geological and geophysical data from the geothermal prospects currently under investigation are sparse and inconclusive. Mapping of hot springs, fumaroles and other geothermal surface manifestations has not been carried out in a systematic, comprehensive manner. Some limited observations and surface geochemical work was carried previously at hydrothermal springs that were identified in the western and central part of the country. See Appendix I for a list of existing geothermal studies. Proposals to carry out assessments of Rwanda s geothermal potential have been received from the German Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR) and from a private American company, Geothermal Development Associates (GDA). The BGR proposal includes geological and geochemical testing at a number of sites and a geophysical survey at one site and can be funded by the Government of Germany at a level of approximately 300,000 Euros ($400,000 US dollars). BGR cannot begin work on their resource assessment before mid The proposal from the American company, GDA, is larger in scope, includes geological and geochemical testing at a number of sites, and geophysical surveys and temperature gradient drilling at three sites. The budget is approximately $900,000 US dollars and work can begin immediately. Funding for the GDA proposal has not been identified. III. WB/Rwanda Geothermal and Geo-Scientific Capacity Building Objectives The objectives of the proposed WB capacity-building program are to: A. Establish a framework for the Fast-Track URGENT geothermal resource assessment project and accelerate the installation and commissioning of a 2-5 MW pilot plant within a three year period. The pilot plant is expected to pave the way for larger-scale geothermal power generation and serve as a training site for Rwandan geoscientists in relation to geothermal resource management and for 2

6 Rwandan electrical and mechanical engineers and technicians in relation to geothermal plant operation and maintenance. B. Create a Rwanda Geoscientific Center that will promote the gender-balanced education and training of Rwandan geoscientists and engineers, and strengthen the capacity of Rwandan institutions to carry out this training and applied research in relation to monitoring and oversight of geothermal development, mining operations, and applied hydro-geological research. IV. Proposed Dual Track Approach In view of the urgent need for power generation in Rwanda that exists today in Rwanda and the limited information available concerning the geothermal resource capacity in Rwanda, the World Bank is proposing the following two track action plan: A fast-track URGENT program to identify one or more viable geothermal resources and generate power through the installation and operation of a pilot geothermal plant within three years. Long-Term planning for the establishment of a Rwanda Geoscientific Center in Kigali to provide support to government and private sector agencies and companies in relation to applied research and training of personnel to promote geoscientific research and use of state-of-the-art technologies related to mining, hydro-geological analyses and promising geothermal prospects for power generation on a sustained basis. A. Fast Track Urgent Plan for Geothermal Resource Assessment and Pilot Power Generation Rwandan leaders in the Ministry of Infrastructure, and Ministry of Science, Technology, and Scientific Research, as well as the General Manager and Electricity Department Director at Electrogaz have indicated that affordable sources of electric power are needed on an urgent basis to replace the highcost, rented thermal power stations. At the same time, proposals to carry out assessments of Rwanda s geothermal potential have been received from the German Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR) and from a private American company, Geothermal Development Associates (GDA) to carry out preliminary geothermal resource assessment work. 1. Objectives In view of the present energy crisis and the likelihood that geothermal energy can provide a long-term solution to Rwanda s energy needs, the objectives of the Fast-Track URGENT component of the proposed World Bank program are to establish, as a Government priority, the implementation of the required studies, temperature gradient and exploration drilling, and resource testing in order to have a 2-5 MW pilot plant installed and operating in Rwanda in a period of 3 years. It is expected the operation of the pilot plant will provide government decision-makers with the confidence to proceed with the planning and installation of a much larger-scale geothermal plant (~30-50 MW) that will have a notable impact on Rwanda s worsening energy crisis. 3

7 The participation of additional bi and multilateral agencies should be encouraged in order to accelerate and finance the geothermal resource assessment, exploratory drilling, resource testing and pilot plant installation. Achieving the pilot plant objectives within the 3 year time frame will not be easy and will require a high level of commitment and initiative on the part of the Geothermal Task Force staff. However, as a result of the present energy crisis, this level of effort is necessary and will, in the long run, provide significant benefits to the Rwandan people and the national economy. 2. Tasks To Be Implemented Achieving the above objective will require establishment of a Geothermal Task Force within the Ministry of Infrastructure that will carry out the following: a. Begin work immediately with one or both of the above entities (BGR GDA) to initiate and complete the required geothermal resource assessment work as quickly as possible and identify the most promising geothermal sites in the country; b. Arrange for slim-hole exploration drilling and resource testing at two or three of the most promising sites for the pilot plant. c. Prepare and circulate a tender among international geothermal companies for the supply and installation of a 2-5 MW pilot geothermal plant. d. Oversee the installation, commissioning and operation of the pilot plant and monitoring of the geothermal resource. e. Select and ensure that Rwandan counterpart geoscientists and engineers participate in all aspects of the geothermal resource assessment, exploration drilling, technical analyses, tendering for, installation and operation of the pilot plant and monitoring of the geothermal resource. f. Enter into discussions with multi and bilateral development agencies and private companies that may be interested in assisting Rwanda in its geothermal program. Explore their possible involvement/support/qualifications for exploration drilling, purchase and installation of the pilot plant, and, afterward, for larger-scale geothermal power generation projects. g. Attend international and regional geothermal conferences, meetings and workshops and visit existing geothermal plants in Kenya and elsewhere to meet potential public and private sector partners and explore potential collaborative opportunities (i.e. for on-the-job geothermal resource and plant-related training). See Appendix III for the Fast Track Geothermal Implementation Schedule. 3. Institutional Location and Structure 4

8 The responsibility for power generation is currently housed within the Ministry of Infrastructure, Office of the Minister of State in charge of Energy and Communications. Within this Office, the Department of Geothermal Coordination presently consists of one part-time person. It is recommended that 2 consultant professionals and one administrative support person be hired to work in the Department for three years and that the consultant professionals have Rwandan counterparts to work with them and learn on-thejob. 4. Job Descriptions and Qualifications A Geothermal Department Director - The GDD should be an expatriate from the East Africa region, Europe or the US. He/she should have a geo-scientific or an engineering background, geothermal resource assessment, institutional management and fundraising experience in the East Africa region. The GDD will have overall responsibility for the implementation of the geothermal resource assessment, evaluation of the results, tendering for exploration drilling, resource testing and analysis. He/she will also be responsible for preparation of monthly progress reports that will be distributed to interested Government stakeholders to keep them informed on project progress. The GDD will liaise with Electrogaz, the advisor to the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Rwanda Utility Regulatory Agency (RURA), the World Bank Energy Advisor and representatives of bilateral agencies involved in energy issues in Rwanda. The GDD will answer directly to the Minister of Energy and Communications and will be evaluated on progress made toward completion of the resource assessment and installation of the geothermal pilot plant at the end of the three year period. A Geothermal Department Technical Advisor with an engineering or other technical degree and experience planning and overseeing the tendering, installation and commissioning of geothermal power plants. His job will include overseeing the tendering, contracting, and installation of the planned 2-5 MW pilot plant. The GDTA should also be an expatriate from the region, Europe or the US and will report to the GDD. Both the Geothermal Department Director and Technical A on-the-job and learn geothermal project management, resource assessment, plant tendering, etc. and establish industry and multi/bilateral agency connections, etc. 5. Study Tour and Training Visits In order to familiarize Rwandan counterparts with geothermal plants and projects in the region and overseas, provision should be made for study tours and training visits to Kenya, Ethiopia, Iceland and the US. The visits should include both short and long-term training opportunities such as have been recently arranged by Geothermal Development Associates for Ethiopian engineers and scientists to Kenya and the US. These included travel to geothermal training seminars in the US as well as to month-long handson training sessions at geothermal plants in Kenya and the US. Longer-term training sessions should be planned, if funding is available and training opportunities can be arranged. 5

9 Travel for Rwandan representatives and presentation of Rwandan geothermal papers should be planned for the annual meeting of the Geothermal Resources Council ( This meeting usually takes place in the US (it will take place in Reno, Nevada in late September, 2007) and is the annual meeting of the international geothermal industry and government representatives. Rwanda should also endeavor to establish membership in the ARGeo program once work has been initiated on the planned geothermal resource assessment. 6. Outside Technical Support for the Geothermal Task Force In order to move the resource assessment and pilot projects ahead quickly and provide in-depth training for Rwandan counterparts, it will be important for the GDD, the GDTA and their Rwandan counterparts to have access to advice and support, on a part-time basis, from an outside geothermal institution or company with geothermal experience in the region and in the geothermal industry as well as with resource assessment, drilling services, the structuring of tenders and review of bids for the provision of other geothermal services. Other needs of the strengthened Geothermal Department will include office space and furniture at the Mininfra, secretarial support, phone, fax and internet communication facilities, computers, a 4x4 vehicle and funds for fuel, maintenance and travel within the region. 7. Suggested Expatriate and Technical Support Recruitment Procedures The Ministry of Infrastructure, Office of the Minister of State in charge of Energy and Communications should become a member of the Geothermal Resources Council (see above for web address) and possibly the Geothermal Energy Association ( and the International Geothermal Association. By becoming a member, the Mininfra will receive hardcopy and online newsletters that provide useful information concerning events and companies involved in the international geothermal industry. The newsletters can also serve as vehicles by which individuals and companies can be recruited for the above positions. B. Long-Term Institution/Capacity Building for Geothermal Energy and Geoscience Development 1. Objective(s) In addition to the establishment of the Fast-Track URGENT program component above, it is recommended that a Rwanda Geoscientific Center (RGC) be established. The overall objectives of the RGC will be to implement and assist other government agencies and the private sector to build capacity to carry out applied research, gender-balanced training, technology demonstration, monitoring, evaluation and information dissemination activities which upgrade and promote the use of improved techniques in relation to: a. Resource identification and use of geothermal energy b. Underground water assessment and exploitation 6

10 c. Mineral / mining assessment and exploration Priority will be given to accelerating the use of improved techniques for mining, hydrogeological research and use of geothermal energy for power generation purposes. However, use of geothermal energy for direct use applications (greenhouse heating, fruit/vegetable drying, etc.) will also be considered. See Appendix II for details. 2. Water Resources Context Rwanda s present water supply is based mainly on surface water exploitation. The Electrogaz Water Department is in charge of treating and distributing potable water for both domestic and industrial use. Raw surface water, mainly from rivers and lakes, is treated in 15 stations around the country. Each water treatmant plant has its own laboratory for water quality control before and after treatment and along the distribution network. The total water supply produced for Kigali is approximately 30,000 m³/day. However, Kigali s water demand is approximately 60,000 m³/ day. The situation is presently critical and an urgent action plan to increase water supply to Kigali is necessary. Other towns throughout the country are in a similar situation. As the quality of the surface water is poor, treating it requres expensive chemical treatment. This results in a high cost per cubic meter. The Rwandan Water Supply Authority recommends exploiting ground water resources in the hope of obtaining clean water at a lower cost. Ground water is usually reached at around 100 m depth. Flow rates are usually between 3-5 m³/hour to 40 m³/hour. The maximum flow rate observed in a well in Rwanda is 100 m³/ hour in the volcanic north region of Rwanda. Data received from the private drilling firm Foraky and from the ELECTROGAZ Water Department indicates that the percentage of productive water wells drilled is low. This may be due to the lack of detailed hydrological studies before drilling. There is one drilling company in the country, a private French firm Foraky Africa. Their maximum existing well depth is about 200 m. 3. Mining Context Mining started in Rwanda in the early 1930s and since then it has always been a major export earner (between 20% -40% of foreign exchange earnings). From the mid 1980s to 1996, mineral production was very low due to management problems in the Rwandan public mining company and the subsequent conflict. Since 1997 mining and trade in minerals have been recovering steadily. 7

11 The key minerals of Rwanda are; cassiterite, wolframite, columbite-tantalite, gold, ambrigonite, beryl and semi precious stones such as tourmaline, topaz, corundum, chiastorite, amethyst, saphires, opal, agate and flint. The human and institutional components of the former Rwanda Geological Survey were destroyed during the genocide. There are presently approximately 35 geoscientists in the country, most of whom are older than 50 and approaching retirement. 4. Tasks To Be Implemented The RGC will work both independently in support of the above geoscientific fields and in collaboration with the other ministerial services involved in geo-scientific-related work (i.e. Rwanda Geology and Mining Authority of the Ministry of Lands, Environment, Forestry, Water and Mines). In relation to the above technical areas, it is recommended that the RGC receive WB support to carry out the following tasks: a. For General Geoscientific Purposes Establishment of a geoscientific information system, including a GIS data base that will provide material for information dissemination to public and private sector stakeholders in relation to geothermal, mining, and hydrogeological resources. The information system should include the results of tests and analyses done to date at each site and next steps suggested by specialized Rwandan or international agencies to assess their potential for commercial development. Provision of support and technical assistance to institutions in Rwanda with existing geotechnical courses and equipment (i.e. National University of Rwanda, KIST) to strengthen their capacity to train geothermal scientists and engineers; Lobbying the Government of Rwanda to address policy, regulatory, and procedural constraints to private sector-based geothermal and mining development (time requirements for concession agreements, permitting, etc.), enactment of necessary incentives (import duty exoneration, tax holidays, sovereign guarantee, etc.) to ensure continuing and active private sector participation in geothermal power and mineral extraction projects; Provision of support for public awareness and extension services in rural communities to promote private sector-based mining activities and use of geothermal energy; Monitoring and evaluation of ongoing geothermal, mining and hydro-geological projects in Rwanda and elsewhere in the region and in the world; Provision of information and technical assistance to private sector entities seeking to establish geothermal and mining initiatives; 8

12 Planning and implementation of applied R&D activities in relation to geothermal, mining and hydro-geological investigations on a commercial basis (or with donor funding) to enable the RGC to become self-sustaining; Liaising with other Rwandan institutions (Electrogaz Water Analysis Department, the Rwanda Geology and Mines Authority, etc.) to carry out necessary mining and hydro-geological tests and analyses. Organization of mass educational and promotional efforts on issues related to geothermal energy, mining, and hydro-geological-related issues. Implementation of economic and financial analyses of geothermal, mining and water resource-related projects including the impact of the sale of carbon credits as a result of the use of environmentally-clean geothermal energy. Carrying out an inventory of existing geothermal and mineral workshop and testing equipment in Rwandan national educational institutions and laboratories; Collaboration with (and strengthening of) other existing technical facilities for geothermal, mining and water resource-related work (i.e. the Water Quality Monitoring Division of Electrogaz, the Rwanda Geological and Mining Authority, the GIS Center of the National University of Rwanda, etc.) elsewhere in the country. Water Laboratory representatives expressed a need for short training courses in water analysis procedures. Training possibilities elsewhere in Africa were suggested (i.e. Tunisia) and should consist of training for 6 people for 3 months each. Assistance with the planning and implementation of in-country and overseas training for geothermal, mining and hydrogeological-related resource identification including: - In-country training programs through KIST, NUR and the Geology and Mining Authority. - Long-term overseas training programs for Master and Phd level geoscientists. - Short-term training opportunities outside Rwanda (i.e. Tunisia for water analysis procedures. b. For Geothermal Energy 9

13 Establishment of linkages with other East-African geo-scientific agencies (KenGen, Geological Survey of Ethiopia, Uganda Dept. of Geological Survey and Mines, etc.), national power companies (EEPCO in Ethiopia, Kenya Power and Light), and geothermal equipment manufacturers (Elliott Turbines, Geothermal Development Associates, etc.) and geothermal plant operation/service providers (ENEL-Italy, Constellation Energy-US, etc.) through the exchange of RGC staff with personnel from geothermal and geoscientific research centers and plants in other countries; Establishment of a relationship with the UNEP/World Bank/GEF-financed East African Rift Valley Geothermal Program (ARGeo) for information, training, equipment and potential risk mitigation financing for exploratory drilling; Establishment of linkages with multi and bilateral technical assistance and financing agencies in industrialized countries (Europe, US, etc.) that are assisting Rwanda in the development of sustainable energy resources (e.g. BGR, World Bank, IFC, Iceida, USAID, DFID, etc.) to enlist their support to address the urgent need for geothermal power generation; Linkages with the Mininfra and Electrogaz Electricity Department to ensure geothermal activities being carried out are in conformity with Government policies and electricity sector planning. Contact with Geothermal Education Office, California, USA to obtain pedagogical materials to address the need to provide material on geothermal energy and the geosciences to pupils and students and lobby to include them in curricula for schools, vocational training centers, colleges and other learning institutions. Establishment of a geothermal laboratory / testing facility to carry out geological mapping, geochemical testing and certain aspects of geophysical surveys. Geochemical analyses are carried out on hot spring sources to assess chemical and isotope content. For steam, measurements are taken of temperature and noncondensible gas concentrations (CO 2, H2S, CH 4, H 2, N2). For spring water, measurements are taken of temperature, ph, electrical conductivity, and chemical content. From these measurements, approximate assessments of spring water origins, reservoir temperatures, and reservoir structures can be made. Equipment required for chemical analyses includes a hand-held GPS, thermometers, beakers, test tubes, other containers and reagents for water and gas testing, field laboratory equipment to measure ph, conductivity, CO 2, H2S, etc., stable isotope laboratory equipment (D, 18 O). Establishment of linkages with local and regional companies that have rigs capable of carrying out geothermal drilling (i.e. Foraky). 1 Practical training at existing geothermal plants in East Africa, Europe and the US 1 Foraky/Rwanda can drill boreholes to 200 meters depth.. Their price from 0 to 100 m (without casing) is $50 to 70 US per meter with a diameter of 6. 10

14 On-the-job Training in Rwanda for participants in the geothermal resource assessment. 5. Stakeholders to be Assisted by the RGC a. Rwandan government agencies involved in promoting and regulating private power developers, mining interests and water resource exploration to satisfy increasing national power demands for energy, minerals and water (i.e. Rwanda Geology and Mines Authority); b. Students and faculty at Rwandan schools, technical institutes (KIST) and the National University of Rwanda; c. Rwandan private sector companies with mining and geothermal-related capabilities (i.e. well-drilling, water analysis, etc.); d. Private investors, mining and geothermal companies interested in financing or developing power generation, mining or water resource projects; e. Local and overseas financial institutions involved in the purchase of carbon credits that will be generated through the use of geothermal plants; f. Bilateral and multilateral aid and lending agencies that may be able to assist with various components of future, large-scale geothermal and mining projects; g. Rwandan and international environmental standards organizations; h. Overseas private companies involved in the provision of geothermal, mining and water resource-related goods and services. i. The Rwanda Central Water Quality Laboratory (part of ELECTROGAS). 6. RGC Activities to Support Private Sector Based Geothermal Development It is anticipated the Rwanda Geoscience Center will carry out the following activities in order to promote and assist private sector-based geothermal, mining and water resource development: a. An assessment of policy, regulatory and other constraints to private sector based geothermal, mining and water resource development in Rwanda such as importation and other taxes imposed by government, concession and permitting delays, PPA negotiation requirements, lack of skilled local manpower, environmental requirements, etc; 11

15 b. Organization of workshops, seminars and conferences for private sector geothermal and mining stakeholders to explain upcoming commercial opportunities and understand and address barriers to private sector participation; c. Assistance with the establishment of a Geothermal Association of Rwanda (GAR) to act as a focal point for public and private sector interest/involvement in geothermal development issues. The GAR will be assisted to organize monthly stakeholder meetings on various geothermal issues and issue a quarterly electronic newsletter. d. RGC and GAR membership in the Geothermal Resources Council, the International Geothermal Association (IGA) and the Geothermal Energy Association in order to receive their membership rosters, newsletters, and other publications which include lists and descriptions of private sector suppliers of geothermal-related goods and services. The RGC and GAR should also enroll to receive the Baker Hughes Geothermal Newsletter (joy.langhals@bakerhughes.com) e. Using the above information, establishment of links between RGC, the GAR and overseas private sector suppliers of geothermal and mining goods and services to bring technical advances in geothermal and mineral resource identification, testing, power-plant and mineral extraction technologies to Rwanda and strengthen local private sector geothermal and mining companies; 7. EXPECTED OUTPUTS FROM THE RGC a. Establishment and operation of a national center to promote and accelerate the use of geothermal energy technologies in ways that are appropriate to Rwanda including grid connection, power supplies to minigrid-based rural electrification projects and for direct uses via both the public and private sectors; b. An enhanced intellectual capital base at RGC to provide baseline data to potential geothermal IPPs and overcome barriers to increased development of private sector-based geothermal energy; c. Ongoing applied R&D programs at RGC including use of distance-learning to continue links to research-related institutions in Africa, Asia, Europe and North/South America; d. Continuing program of monitoring and evaluation of ongoing geothermal projects in Rwanda, both on a pilot basis and for large-scale power generation; e. Testing and evaluation of equipment used for the provision of geothermal services in accord with international standards; f. Ongoing information dissemination using a range of media mechanisms to increase Rwandan public awareness about geothermal issues and options; 12

16 g. Ongoing geothermal -related educational programs in primary and secondary schools, as well as colleges, institutes and at the university undergraduate and graduate levels; h. A strengthened geothermal capacity within the private sector (and other national stakeholders); i. A sustainable level of applied R&D activity in Rwanda to pave the way for expanded development of geothermal power generation and direct uses with support from private contracts and donor agencies. 8. Possible Locations for the RGC Possible locations for the RGC include: a. Part of the Ministry of Infrastructure but housed elsewhere b. Within the soon-to-be-created National Agency for Energy in Rwanda (ANER) c. As a Kigali-based annex to the Institut de Recherche Scientifique et Technologique (IRST) of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Scientific Research d. As an agency of the Ministry of Lands, Environment, Forestry, Water and Mines. 9. Planned Startup Activities During RGC Project Year 1 a. Study tour visits for key RGC staff to geothermal plants and centers in East Africa (KenGen-Kenya, Geological Survey of Ethiopia, Uganda Dept. of Geological Survey and Mines), Europe (BGR-Germany, ENEL-Italy, BRGM- France), US (US Geological Survey, plants at Soda Lake, Steamboat, Salton Sea, The Geysers, etc.) and Asia (Philippines) involved in electricity generation and direct use research, development and commercialization; b. Establishment of links with DFID, Iceida, USAID, US Dept. of Energy, World Bank, Global Environment Facility, International Energy Agency and other international stakeholders. c. Establishment of Rwandan membership in the ARGeo program, Geothermal Resources Council, and International Geothermal Association d. Participation at the annual meeting of the Geothermal Resources Council/Geothermal Energy Association (in 2007 to be held in Reno, Nevada USA from September 30 through October 3. See for details. 13

17 e. Organization of a stakeholder workshop to identify critical issues related to geothermal energy development, training-related needs and additional institutional linkages; f. Inventory of existing institutional capacity and training/testing-related equipment at IRST, UNR, and other institutions in Rwanda (i.e. Electrogaz); g. Planning for RGC building/infrastructure facilities, staffing and a 5 year program and budget; h. Preparation of materials and initiation of information dissemination activities on national geo-scientific issues (water resources, mining resources and activities, etc.); i. Preparation of pedagogical materials for technical colleges and technical institutes on geoscientific and geothermal-related issue; j. Identification of 5-10 candidates and initiation of their training in the geosciences at overseas universities at the bachelor, MS and PhD levels; k. Planning and initiation of a geothermal distance education program with a US or European university, V. Existing Institutions in Rwanda With Geoscientific Mandates, Activities Or Interests and Possible World Bank Capacity-Building Support A. Ministry of Infrastructure The National Agency for Energy in Rwanda (ANER) As indicated in the EDPRS, the strengthening of institutional and technical capacity in the energy sector will be led through the creation of the National Agency for Energy in Rwanda (l Agence Nationale de l Energie du Rwanda (ANER)). ANER will require the training of 300 technicians in the development, planning, and management of a broad range of energy projects, and studies, their monitoring and evaluation and the establishment of 20 new energy service companies to install and service energy technologies (solar, wind, biomass, etc.). While the role(s) and structure of ANER are not yet defined, it is conceivable the Geothermal Task Force, now planned for the Ministry of Infrastructure, may be merged with ANER. B. Ministry of Science, Technology and Technical Research The Institute for Research Scientifique et Technologique (IRST) 14

18 IRST is a public institute of scientific and technological research under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Scientific Research. It is based in Butare and carries out research activities within three centers: i. Phytomedicines and Life Sciences - where emphasis is put on traditional medicines ii. Applied Sciences - which focuses on renewable energy, environmental technology, soil conservation, seismology, etc These areas are new and research work has not yet started. iii. Human Sciences - which emphasizes Rwandan literature, linguistics, history etc. IRST has 90 staff members among whom are 8 PhD s, and 13 Masters Degree holders. Most of the staff are young recruits from the National University of Rwanda with backgrounds in chemistry and physics. There are no geoscientists at IRST. IRST funding comes mainly from the Government (95.46%). The remainder is from donor agencies. IRST staff expressed an interest in including the geosciences in their research activities although it is not clear how such activities could link to their existing programs. The two exceptions could be linkages to (a) the IRST seismology program (risks linked to volcanic eruptions and earthquakes) and (b) IRST s establishment of field research offices in 5 locations throughout the country including one each in the southwest near Rusizi and in the north Musanze. C. Ministry of Lands, Environment, Forestry, Water and Mines 1. Task Force for the Rwanda Geology and Mining Authority The Task Force for the Rwanda Geology and Mining Authority is part of the Ministry of Lands, Environment, Forestry, Water and Mines, consists of 5 people, and is expected to become the Rwanda Geology and Mining Authority in the next month or two. The Authority plans to employ about 25 people of which 15 will be geologists and mining engineers. The main objectives of Rwanda Geology and Mining Authority will be : a. Produce raw geological data to promote investment in the mining sector (large scale geological maps, geochemical and mineral data, etc. ) b. Regulate the mining industry (mining law elaboration, oversee private mining activities, environmental monitoring etc.) c. Upgrade mineral quality ( added value on minerals through basic mineral processing like smelters etc ) d. To train and advice people working in small scale mining activities basically grouped in cooperatives Previously, all mining work in the country was done by a public company. This has now ceased and exploration permits have been given to private mining companies for 4 year periods. At the end of the 4 year periods, if the results are positive, will be transformed into 30 year concessions (renewable for 15 year periods). 15

19 Capacity-building for the Rwanda Geology and Mining Authority is required to overcome the following constraints: a. Gaps in exploration work (last exploration work was done in the 1980 s) b. Low level of investment in industrial minerals and rocks c. Small-scale, artisan nature of mining in Rwanda. Although industrial mining potential exists, most mining is still done by artisans using simple equipment. d. Low level of financing available to local mining companies. e. Export of low quality mineral ores 2. Proposed Capacity Building for the Soon-to-be-Established Rwanda Geology and Mining Authority The proposed capacity-building for the Rwanda Geology and Mining Authority includes: Training of graduates from KIST and NUR in chemistry, physics and engineering as geoscientists (geologists, geochemists and mining engineers) for the RGMA. Training to be carried out in Tanzania, South Africa and possibly Ethiopia and Uganda (in Africa ~ $6,000 per year). In Europe in Belgium, France ($12,000 - $15,000 per year). Training to be focused on the practical aspects of mining at the Bacherlor s level. Master s level training to be carried out to obtain a cadre of specialists in geological mining, geochemistry, geophysics, and mining engineering. Support/training to the 19 existing mining cooperatives in the form of training seminars and access to credit for mining operations. Training to include modern mining techniques, economies of scale, administration / bookkeeping, etc. Equipment to be used in RGMA laboratories for geological and mining sample analyses. TA and advisory support for promotion of and investment in large-scale mining operations. Implementation of an economic and technical feasibility study of available and commercially- extractable minerals in Rwanda. The study will be followed by the organization by a seminar to which international mining companies will be invited, the study presented and investors/miners encouraged and assisted. D. Ministry of Education 1. National University of Rwanda Founded in 1963, the National University of Rwanda (NUR) is located in Butare and is the primary, nationally-recognized institute of undergraduate and graduate education in the country. It is a bilingual institution whose mission is to carry out higher education, research and provide services to the community. It presently has about 8,000 students studying in 9 faculties, 3 schools and 7 centers. The faculties include Agriculture; Law; Medicine; Economics and Management; Social, Political and Administrative Sciences; Arts and Humanities; Science; and Applied Sciences. The schools include 16

20 Journalism; Modern Languages; and Public Health. The centers include Research; Conflict Management; GIS and Remote Sensing; Rwanda Development Gateway (national computerization); Pearl Outreach; Radio Salus; and Computing. Master s programs are offered in Public Health, Epidemiology, Water Resources/Environmental Management, Agro-Forestry/Soils Management, Psychology/Therapeutics, Business Law, Economics, ICT, and Medicine. NUR does not offer courses or a degree in the geosciences at either the bachelor or MS levels. 2. Kigali Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) KIST, which is part of the Ministry of Education, was founded in 1997 with the main objectives of developing science and technology education in Rwanda including training and research activities. KIST presently has 3,000 students (and expects to grow to 5,000 in 2-3 years). KIST has two faculties: Faculty of Technology which includes 6 departments (Civil Engineering and Environmental Technology, Computer Engineering and Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Mechanical Engineering). Faculty of Science which includes departments of Applied Chemistry, Applied Physics, Applied Biology and Applied Mathematics. KIST awards 4 year Bachelor of Science degrees. It does not presently offer training in the geosciences but would like to do so. KIST has exchange relationships with universities in Germany, S. Africa, UK, Iceland and the US. KIST sees an important need for geoscience training. Both theoretical and practical training should be done in-country and should use the process of establishing the planned pilot plant as on-the-job training opportunities. 3. Proposed WB Capacity-Building Assistance to the National University of Rwanda and the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology It is recommended that capacity-building to strengthen UNR and KIST s geoscience-related capabilities include: a. Establishment of links with institutions of higher education in Africa, Europe, Asia and North America to facilitate Rwandan student participation in Bachelor, Master and PhD programs in the geosciences and engineering as they apply to geothermal resource utilization and power plant operation. Programs to include both basic and applied R&D programs to facilitate public and private sectorbased geothermal development, build a national geothermal capacity and promote the establishment of public and private sector-based geothermal services 17

21 appropriate for the Rwandan and East African market place. See attached list of US and European universities with geoscience courses in Appendix III. b. Establishment and use of a distance-learning facility at RGC with satellite links to universities, national laboratories and other institutions carrying out applied research in various aspects of geothermal energy development; c. Curriculum development, preparation of pedagogical materials and training of teaching staff from local primary, secondary, technical colleges and institutes in the establishment and implementation of geothermal educational programs: d. The Rector of Kist expressed a desire to initiate geo-scientific training for a limited number of applied chemistry and physics students by sending them overseas for short courses. He also suggested the possibility of bringing visiting professors from overseas to teach semester courses in the geosciences. E. OTHER 1. Non Governmental Organization (NGO) - Geothermal Energy Research and Development Center (GERDC) GERDC is an NGO that was recently registered with the Government and is just beginning to promote the use of geothermal energy in Rwanda. It has not yet done any practical work but is planning to encourage and assist with public education about geothermal activities to address the present national power shortage. It will also stress environmental protection. See Appendix IV for GERDC contact information. 2. Proposed WB Capacity-Building Assistance to the GERDC Having at least one active, informed NGO working to promote geothermal energy in Rwanda could have a positive impact on use of the technology in the country in relation to public education and provision of information to and lobbying of Rwandan decisionmakers. The Ugandan National Association of Professional Environmentalists (NAPE) is a very active NGO, based in Kampala, that has been involved in the promotion of geothermal energy for approximately 6 years. NAPE has carried out a wide range of activities (seminars, conferences, trips, newsletters,) in support of geothermal energy. Most recently, it wrote and published an Investment Guide to Geothermal Development in Uganda. It is suggested that the WB Capacity Building program assist the GERDC in learning from NAPE s experience in Uganda about the potential roles that an NGO can play in relation to geothermal development. To do this, it is recommended that GERDC establish contact with NAPE and that a joint NAPE/GERDC seminar be planned in Kigali on the promotion of geothermal energy. NAPE should assist GERDC with the planning of invitees, presenters and preparation of materials for the seminar. NAPE should also assist GERDC with planning institutional structures, work programs and fund-raising strategies. See Appendix V for contact and background information on NAPE. 18

22 APPENDIX I EXISTING STUDIES ON GEOTHERMAL IN RWANDA Report of the Twenty Third Session, Czechoslovakia, 1968, Proceeding of Symposium II, Mineral and Thermal Waters of the World, B- Overseas Countries Eaux Minerales et Thermales du Rwanda, A. Bertossa, Rwanda, pages Rapport Annuel 1966, Ministere du Commerce, Mines et Industrie, Service Geologique. Reconnaissance Geothermique de la Republique du Rwanda, BRGM, December, III eme Conference Internationale Decennale Sur La Geophysique et la Geochemie Applique A L Exploration Miniere, A La Recherche des Eaux Souterraines et a La Geothermie «Exploration 87». Rapport de Mission, MUNYAGATUNGA Boniface, Ministere des Travaux Publiques, de L Energie et de L Eau. Preliminary Assessment of Rwanda s Geothermal Energy Development Potential, Chevron Company, 27 November

23 APPENDIX II RWANDA FAST TRACK GEOTHERMAL ASSESSMENT AND PILOT PLANT TIMELINE YR 1 YR 2 YR 3 QTR QTR QTR Component GEOTHERMAL TASK FORCE Geothermal Task Force approved X GTF staff hired X RESOURCE ASSESSMENT 11 MONTHS Desk study Geochemical testing Geological mapping, GIS Geophysical surveys Temp gradient drilling Data analysis, final report ARGEO Application submitted X Membership followup ARGeo assisted drilling, training slim hole drilling 20