Analysis of Geothermal Direct Use in Agriculture and the Social Economic Effects on Local Communities

Abstract

The direct use of geothermal energy offers a promising solution to diverse energy requirements. However, the focus on utilizing geothermal direct use is less explored in Indonesia. The vast geothermal potential suggests more exploration for direct applications, especially in the agricultural industry. This study analyzes the performance of geothermal direct use utilization at two locations: PLTP Wayang Windu (coffee drying) and PLTP Lahendong (drying agricultural products and palm sugar production), with the socioeconomic effect on local communities in the geothermal work area based on literature review. In Wayang Windu, 147°C brine is processed through a closed heat exchanger system, producing 32.65 kW of energy to dry 1,000 kg of coffee for 12.5 hours. In Lahendong, heat waste is used to make a 12-ton/day palm sugar. Heating efficiency for Paddy drying of the dryer is 82.50%, and total drying efficiency reached 51.10%. This direct use of utilization has the potential to reduce carbon emissions from the production process that still uses fossil fuels or wood. Local communities welcomed the direct use of geothermal technology for drying agricultural products. It is also essential to ensure the regulatory and policy landscape surrounding the geothermal work area is safe and sustainable for public.