North of the Hot Zone

This week saw the Seattle Times, the Tacoma Tribune and the Bellingham Herald to run an article by Les Blumenthal about Geothermal along the Cascades.  The Columbian even delivered an even handed editorial that was also picked up by the Seattle Times.  The Columbian Editorial talks to the challenge around accessing U.S. Forest Service Land, the richest in geothermal potential as well as being codified in federal law as available for possible development.

Could geothermal energy production gain traction in or near Clark County? Chris Strebig, spokesman for Gifford Pinchot National Forest, told us on Tuesday that forest officials are not aware of any lease applications or other interest expressed by geothermal power companies. But the federal Bureau of Land Management last summer announced its increased attention to geothermal leasing throughout the West. And USDA Forest Service Chief Gail Kimbell said the agency will cooperate with the BLM. "Enhancing our nation’s energy needs through safe and clean energy is an important focus of the Department of Agriculture and a proper use of our public lands," Kimbell said.

Geothermal power is considered by most scientists to be relatively safe and clean, and virtually renewable, although some experts say not as renewable as hydropower. California and Nevada produce much of the nation’s geothermal power, but the Northwest, Utah and New Mexico are also believed to have vast resources of untapped heat. Energy independence can and should be pursued in concert with respect for the environment.

Tags: WA State // Add Comment »