Utah Working Group
The first meeting of the Utah Geothermal Energy Working Group was held in Salt Lake City on March 4, 2003. The meeting was organized and hosted by the Utah Division of Natural Resources — Utah Geological Survey (UGS). Thirty-three people representing a variety of interests including state and federal agencies, universities, geothermal electric power producers and vendors, direct use (agriculture, aquaculture, spas, and space heating), and the Utah Clean Energy Alliance attended.
The meeting included presentations on the proposed purpose of the Utah Geothermal Working Group and current geothermal projects at UGS. A DOE State Energy Program grant currently funds work to update geothermal resource data (completed) and to prioritize high-temperature geothermal resources in Utah; a subsequent phase will promote direct use development. Nine high-temperature resources with potential for geothermal electric production have been identified in Utah; work is proceeding to identify and evaluate issues associated with their development.
The presentations were followed by a group discussion on issues associated with geothermal development in Utah and potential activities for the Utah Geothermal Energy Working Group. As a result of these discussions, a policy subcommittee was formed; an education subcommittee may also be formed to promote public education and outreach. Bob Blackett, UGS, agreed to serve as the lead for the Utah Geothermal Energy Working Group.
More Information
Bob Blackett
Senior Geologist
Utah Geological Survey
Tel: (435) 865-9035
E-mail: robertblackett@utah.gov