The Biden administration approves large geothermal project in Utah

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.

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