Existing oil and natural gas wells (either active or tapped-out wells) provide an opportunity for co-production of geothermal power along with oil or gas without the expense of drilling separate wells. Proper management techniques must be used to prevent contamination of groundwater resources with minerals produced from geothermal wells. There have been some concerns that the drilling of wells may amplify earthquakes in surrounding areas. In the United States, most geothermal resources suitable for electricity generation are in the western states, Alaska and Hawaii. Texas and other oil-producing states have many co-production opportunities. In 2013, U.S. geothermal power plants led the world with a capacity of about 3,442 MW but produced less than 1 percent of total U.S. electricity. The U.S. Geological Survey has identified geothermal resources that could provide another 9,000 MW of capacity with existing technology and estimates that over 500,000 MW could be generated through more advanced technology. Geothermal energy is currently the third greatest source for renewable electricity in the United States, behind hydropower and biomass. Learn more about Geothermal Energy:

View more entries tagged as Adaptation

Newsletters Sign Up

Podcast Episode List

Join Our Team

Tags / Keywords

Environmental andEnergy Study Institute

We've moved! Our suite number is now 400. 1020 19th Street, NW, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20036-6101

(202) 628-1400 phone (202) 204-5244 fax

info@eesi.org
Staff directory EIN: 52-1268030

About EESI

EESI advances science-based solutions for climate change, energy, and environmental challenges in order to achieve our vision of a sustainable, resilient, and equitable world. More about EESI

Topics

Sitemap

Copyright © Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI). Our work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License.Privacy Policy