GEOTHERMAL WELL DRILLING.

 

Geothermal wells have a finite lifespan and over time wells are required to be re-drilled and replaced. We are working on an eight well geothermal drilling campaign to sustain the capacity of the Kawerau, Ngā Tamariki and Rotokawa fields. These wells are “make up” wells to maintain the current generation capacity of our Geothermal Power Stations.

 Mercury Geothermal Well Drilling

 

We expect to spend ~$169 million on this current make up well campaign. These make up wells are are a key part of our long term sustainable geothermal generation strategy to provide base-load renewable electricity for decades to come.    

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


What impact does drilling have on the surrounding environment - short and long term? Geothermal wells have a small surface footprint of approximately one hectare, while extending deep underground. Short term during the drilling operation there may be higher noise, lighting and dust levels near the drill site, but in each case, this is carefully mitigated and monitored by the on-site team.
Does the drilling cause earthquakes/seismic activity? We are confident that there is no additional risk of seismic events from drilling these three deep but extremely narrow wells. In 2023, there was an earthquake swam near the town of Kawerau and the geothermal field, this was analysed by GNS who believe that the earthquake swarm in March that year was due to the movement of active faults and not related to volcanic unrest or geothermal activity. Please see here for more information.
What are the rules around doing this? This drilling work is carried out in accordance with Regional Council and District Council resource consent conditions and district rules. There are strict rules in place around our whole operation at our power stations, including well drilling.
Will the drilling affect the local water supply? We use water for the drilling activities and these activities are part of our permits. Where drilling occurs near a town, the town’s water supply is not be impacted by our activity.
How have do you communicate your plans to the local communities? We talk to local residents, businesses and iwi who might be impacted by the drilling or moving the drilling rig around. We put flyers and posters out into the community, and we use local social media and news and our website.
How do you lessen the impact on the community? We have a careful plan, including noise bunds, light barriers and dust control sprayers. There is positive impact on the community too by utilising local contractors where possible to support the specialist drilling crew.

If you have any inquiries about our geothermal power stations you can email us at geothermal@mercury.co.nz