Harnessing Low-Temperature Geothermal Heat from Hot Oil Wells for Sustainable Fruit Drying in Iquitos, Peru: A Pathway to Economic Empowerment and Food Security

Porlles J.; Melgar H.; Cuestas F.; Zegarra F.; Torres R.; Pajuelo D.; Tafur J.G. · Transactions - Geothermal Resources Council (2025)

Resumen

This study examines the innovative use of low-temperature geothermal energy from hot oil wells in Iquitos, a remote city in the Peruvian Amazon, to power sustainable fruit drying systems, thereby contributing to local economic development and food security. Despite having abundant natural resources, local communities have limited access to sustainable technologies that can add value to their agricultural products. This study proposes a novel application of low-enthalpy geothermal energy-specifically, repurposing waste heat from existing or shut-in hot oil wells in the region-to power low-temperature fruit drying systems. The goal is to develop a decentralized, low-cost, and clean energy solution to preserve tropical fruits (aguaje, aguaymanto, lucuma, cocona, camucamu, custard apple), including other non-local fruits. Thermal energy from oil wells, typically in the 50-90℃ range, is well-suited for convective fruit drying processes. Using thermodynamic modeling and site-specific data from legacy oil wells near the Loreto basin, we demonstrate that sufficient geothermal heat can be extracted without mechanical pumping, relying on natural convection or thermosiphon systems. A prototype indirect geothermal dryer was designed, integrating local materials and passive air circulation, optimized for low capital and maintenance costs. Economic modeling suggests that a single fruit drying unit powered by geothermal heat can process up to 500 kg/day of fresh fruit, reducing post-harvest losses by up to 40% and increasing shelf life and marketability. Dried fruit products could be sold locally and regionally, creating new income streams for indigenous and rural communities. The proposed system can operate year-round and offers a reliable alternative to biomass or diesel-based dryers, significantly lowering carbon emissions. This work highlights the untapped potential of hot oil wells as geothermal assets for direct-use applications in the Amazon. It proposes a scalable, community-based model that integrates renewable energy with rural development and food security goals. The project aims to attract investment and policy support to replicate similar systems across other tropical oil-producing regions with geothermal co-benefits. © GRC 2025.All rights reserved.

Instituciones: Universidad Científica del Sur