Credit: kikkerdirk/Big Stock Photo
21 October
The Biden administration approves large geothermal project in Utah
The U.S. government has approved Fervo Energy’s Cape Geothermal Power Project, which could power 2 million homes and significantly boost the nation’s geothermal capacity.
Maxine Joselow reports for The Washington Post.
In short:
- Fervo Energy’s geothermal plant in Utah will use enhanced geothermal technology and is expected to operate by 2028, generating up to 2 gigawatts of electricity.
- Enhanced geothermal energy relies on techniques similar to hydraulic fracturing but poses less risk of contamination and seismic activity.
- The Interior Department is working to streamline approvals for more geothermal projects, proposing changes to reduce permitting times.
Key quote:
“This is not your grandpa’s geothermal.”
— Ali Zaidi, White House national climate adviser.
Why this matters:
Geothermal energy offers a reliable, low-emission power source and could play a crucial role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Expanding geothermal projects like this one can help meet growing energy demands while advancing climate goals.
