Geothermal Power Generation Gets Boost from Federal Government

November 19, 2008

Covina, CA (The Open Press) November 18, 2008 — The advantages and possibilities of geothermal energy, generated by heat in the ground, have long been known. It is green and biofriendly energy, because no fuels are being burned, so no greenhouse gases are produced, nor any other harmful emissions. And plenty of it is available, especially in the Western United States. Further, geothermal has the added advantage that, unlike with solar or wind energy, the power generated is continuous.

Seeing the potential of developing geothermal power, the Department of the Interior has announced that it will make 190 million acres of federal lands in 12 western states available for geothermal power development. What has environmentalists excited is not only the prospect of clean energy, but also that no environmentally sensitive areas, such as national parks or designated wilderness areas, are being targeted for this project.

It is estimated that under this initiative geothermal power production can reach 5,540 megawatts by the year 2015—enough to power 5.5 million homes. And by 2025 power delivery is expected to climb to 12,100 megawatts, enough for more than 12 million homes.

According to the Secretary of the Interior, Dirk Kempthorne, this will give a tremendous boost to geothermal power generation. “Geothermal energy will play a key role in powering America’s energy future,” Kempthorne said, “and 90 percent of our nation’s geothermal resources are found on Federal lands. Facilitating their leasing and development under environmentally sound regulations is crucial to supplying the secure, clean energy American homes and businesses need.”

This plan was developed in liaison with state and local communities, environmental groups and industry, which greatly benefited the final outcome in providing a model for cooperative action towards a more optimum energy future.

Fifty percent of the revenues generated by these geothermal plants will go to the state in which the power is produced, 25 percent to the county and the remaining 25 percent to a special fund to finance future geothermal development.

Geothermal power is not a new thing. In fact, the U.S. already is the world leader in this field with 29 plants now operating on public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management in California, Nevada and Utah, providing enough power for 1.2 million homes. In addition to electrical power, geothermal installations can also provide heat directly to surrounding communities. The Bureau’s website provides information on the final environmental impact results.

It is heartening to know that the Federal Government is taking positive steps in the direction of a greener, healthier planet for the benefit of current and future generations. Individuals and commercial enterprises are involved in this process as well. One company that distinguishes itself in this field is Biofriendly Corporation, which produces Green Plus®, a liquid fuel catalyst that provides a cleaner, more linear fuel burn in internal combustion engines, resulting in fewer harmful emissions, increased torque and better fuel economy.

For more information about Green Plus visit the Biofriendly website at www.biofriendly.com.

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