The Hawaii Scientific Observation Hole (SOH) program : a case study and status report

Abstract

The Hawaii Natural Energy Institute of the University of Hawaii at Manoa has planned and is currently implementing a program designed to confirm and stimulate geothermal resources development in Hawaii. The program initially involved the drilling of approximately six, 4,000-foot scientific observation core holes (SOH) on the Big Island of Hawaii and Maui, reservoir analysis research utilizing small-diameter observation holes, and the expansion of the research capabilities at the Puna Geothermal Research Center. However, institutional and political problems have reduced the scope of the program to the drilling of only four holes in the Kilauea East Rift Zone on the Big Island. Funding of $3,25 million has been provided by the State of Hawaii under the supervision of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBED). Private developers of geothermal resources on Hawaii and other private sector sources have raised an additional $5 million for reservoir analysis research and the drilling of two geothermal production wells. Drilling of the first hole (SOH-4) began in December 1988 and the final hole is expected to be completed by mid 1991.