Aguirre, José Luis Beltrán2019-01-252010Aguirre, J. L. (2010). Study Of Geothermal Energy In Ecuador And How It Can Be Harnessed For The Development Of The Electrical Sector (Unpublished report). University of Calgary, Calgary, AB.http://hdl.handle.net/1880/109582Ecuador is a country that depends mainly on hydro and fossil fuels for the generation of electricity; nevertheless, Ecuador has series problems on using both resources. The use of fossil fuels implies the imports of combustible which presents an important expenditure. Besides, thermoelectric units are near their life cycle, and their efficiency is low. On the other hand, the generation of electricity by hydro power plants decreases during the dry season between October and March. Consequently, it is necessary to look for another alternative that could be developed in a sustainable way. Because of Ecuador’s potential and the several technological, environmental and economical advantages, geothermal energy appears to be an important option for changing Ecuador’s energetic matrix. Technologically, geothermal energy has the highest capacity factor (0.85-0.95); environmentally, GHGs emissions and land use are negligible in comparison with fossil fuels and hydro, respectively; and economically, its capital cost per kW ($000/kW - $4000kW) is minor than other renewable technologies. In this thesis project is analyzed the geothermic potential of the areas of Tufino-Chiles, Chalupas, and Chachimbiro. Furthermore, it is explained the environmental and social problems that may happen, and developed the costs of exploration and exploitation and the economic benefits that these projects would represent to the country. Finally, it is identified the main driving forces, barriers and stakeholders of this type of projects, and it is explained a strategy for developing geothermal power plants in the country.engUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.reporthttp://dx.doi.org/10.11575/PRISM/35841