What happened

Metalsu Jeotermal Madencilik Tic. A.Ş. is proposing geothermal resource exploration and extraction near Karakaya neighbourhood in Altıeylül district, Balıkesir. The planned area is associated with licence IR.10/0009 and covers 923.5 hectares, according to Enerji Günlüğü.

The company has put the project’s value at TRY 60 million. Its proposal provides for drilling at two separate locations to investigate geothermal resources, using a rotary drilling method. The reported plan concerns both exploration and extraction, with an operating phase intended after drilling activities are completed.

The wells would not be drilled in parallel. Metalsu plans to complete work at the first location before dismantling the drilling machine and associated equipment, then moving them to the other well location. Stakeholders seeking clarity on project timing should therefore track permitting progress and the start of the first drilling campaign.

Why it matters

Both proposed drilling points are located on pasture and agricultural land. Enerji Günlüğü reports that the necessary permissions must be obtained before work can begin, making authorisation a prerequisite for the field programme.

The land status is particularly relevant because it applies to each of the two planned locations, rather than only to part of the wider licensed area. Until the required permissions are secured, the planned drilling sequence cannot begin.

The project’s sequential approach also means that one set of drilling equipment is expected to serve both locations. Completion of the first well is therefore an identified step before activity can continue at the second site.

What to watch next

The immediate development to monitor is the acquisition of permissions for the two drilling locations. Metalsu would then begin the first drilling operation, transfer its equipment after that work is finished, and proceed to the second location.

Following completion of both drilling activities, the project is intended to enter an operational stage. No timetable for permitting, drilling or operations was provided in the reported project details.

Project details

  • Company: Metalsu Jeotermal Madencilik Tic. A.Ş.
  • Location: Karakaya area, Altıeylül district, Balıkesir
  • Licensed area: 923.5 hectares under IR.10/0009
  • Investment stated: TRY 60 million
  • Drilling approach: Two locations, using a rotary system and a sequential work plan