1 

Geothermal Energy Resources and Policies 

of the Western States 

July 2009
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Geothermal Energy Resources and Policies 

of the Western States 

July 2009 

US Department of the Interior 

Bureau of Land Management 

US Department of Agriculture 

United States Forest Service 
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i 

Table of Contents

Western States Summary........................................................1 

Alaska...............................................................................2 

Resource Geography....................................................2 

Utilization.................................................................3 

Laws and Regulations....................................................4 

Generation and Capacity................................................5 

Technical Capabilities....................................................5 

Tribal Lands................................................................5 

Arizona..............................................................................6 

Resource Geography....................................................6 

Utilization..................................................................7 

Technical Capabilities....................................................7 

Generation and Capacity ................................................7 

Tribal Lands................................................................7 

Laws and Regulations....................................................9 

California..........................................................................10 

Resource Geography...................................................10 

Utilization.................................................................10 

Technical Capabilities...................................................10 

Generation and Capacity ..............................................12 

Laws and Regulations...................................................13 

Tribal Lands...............................................................14 

Colorado..........................................................................16 

Resource Geography...................................................16 

Utilization.................................................................16 

Technical Capabilities...................................................16 

Generation and Capacity ..............................................18 

Tribal Lands...............................................................19 

Laws and Regulations...................................................19 

Idaho...............................................................................20 

Resource Geography...................................................20 

Utilization.................................................................20 

Technical Capabilities..................................................20 
ii 

Table of Contents

Generation and Capacity .............................................20 

Tribal Lands................................................................22 

Laws and Regulations...................................................22 

Montana...........................................................................23 

Resource Geography...................................................23 

Utilization.................................................................23 

Generation and Capacity ..............................................23 

Tribal Lands...............................................................25 

Laws and Regulations...................................................25 

Nevada.............................................................................26 

Resource Geography....................................................26 

Utilization.................................................................26 

Technical Capabilities...................................................26 

Generation and Capacity ...............................................26 

Laws and Regulations...................................................28 

Tribal Lands...............................................................29 

New Mexico......................................................................30 

Resource Geography...................................................30 

Utilization.................................................................30 

Technical Capabilities...................................................30 

Generation and Capacity ...............................................32 

Tribal Lands..............................................................32 

Laws and Regulations..................................................34 

Oregon...........................................................................35 

Resource Geography...................................................35 

Utilization................................................................35 

Technical Capabilities...............................................35 

Generation and Capacity ..............................................37 

Laws and Regulations...................................................38 

Tribal Lands...............................................................38 

Utah...............................................................................39 

Resource Geography...................................................39 

Utilization.................................................................39 
iii 

Table of Contents

Technical Capabilities...................................................39 

Generation and Capacity ..............................................41 

Tribal Lands...............................................................42 

Laws and Regulations...................................................42 

Washington.......................................................................43 

Resource Geography...................................................43 

Utilization.................................................................43 

Technical Capabilities...................................................43 

Generation and Capacity ..............................................45 

Laws and Regulations...................................................45 

Tribal Lands...............................................................46 

Wyoming..........................................................................47 

Resource Geography...................................................47 

Utilization.................................................................47 

Technical Capabilities...................................................47 

Generation and Capacity ..............................................49 

Tribal Lands...............................................................49 

Laws and Regulations...................................................49 

Tribal Lands Laws and Regulations............................................50 

References........................................................................53 

State Geothermal Resources Maps 

Alaska.....................................................................2 

Arizona....................................................................6 

California................................................................11 

Colorado................................................................17 

Idaho.......................................................................21 

Montana.................................................................24 

Nevada...................................................................27 

New Mexico.............................................................31 

Oregon...................................................................35 

Utah.......................................................................40 

Washington..............................................................44 

Wyoming.................................................................48 
iv 

List of Acronyms

APS - Arizona Public Service 

BIA - Bureau of Indian Affairs 

BLM - United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management 

C - Celsius 

CAHSB - Central Alaskan Hot Springs Belt 

CEC - California Energy Commission 

CO2 - Carbon Dioxide 

DEQ - Department of Environmental Quality 

EA - Environmental Assessment 

ECRB - Eastern Copper River Basin 

EFSC - Energy Facility Siting Council 

EFSEC - Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council 

EIS - Environmental Impact Statement 

EPA - Environmental Protection Agency 

F - Fahrenheit 

FS - United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service 

GHG - Greenhouse Gas 

GWh - Gigawatt hour 

KGRA - Known Geothermal Resource Area 

KW - Kilowatt 

MW - Megawatt 

MWe - Megawatts electric 
v 

List of Acronyms

MWh - Megawatt hour 

NAU - Northern Arizona University 

NEPA - National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 

NMSU - New Mexico State University 

PEIS - Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement 

PG&E - Pacific Gas and Electric 

RES - Renewable Electricity Standard 

RPS - Renewable Portfolio Standard 

UNR - University of Nevada at Reno 

US - United States 

USDOE - United States Department of Energy 

USGS - United States Geological Survey 
This Page Intentionally Left Blank 
1 

Introduction 

This report details the current status of geothermal resources and development for each of 

the 12 western states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New 

Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. The report contains focused information 

on resource geography, current and proposed geothermal utilization, technical capabilities in 

the form or public and private research and investment, a look at geothermal resources on 

tribal lands within each state, and state geothermal regulations and the agencies responsible 

for the oversight of geothermal resources. Additional requirements and considerations for 

pursuing geothermal resource development on tribal lands follow the state status section.

 

In total, about 530 million acres in the 12 

western states, including Alaska, are 

identified as having geothermal potential for 

indirect or direct applications, with about 

480 million acres providing potential for 

electrical production. The hottest 

resources and where commercial electrical 

generation would most likely occur, are 

generally within central and northern 

Nevada, western Utah, southern and 

central Idaho, southern and northeastern 

California, southeast Oregon, and along the 

Cascade mountain range. 

 

Estimates of short term (2015) and long term (2025)

electrical power generated from geothermal resources 

provided in this report are derived primarily from the 

Western Governors’ Task Force Report (WGA 2006), 

with input from state geothermal programs and others in 

the geothermal industry. Thirty year estimates of potential 

electrical generation capacity from identified geothermal 

resources come from the United States Geologic Survey 

(USGS) report, released October 2008 tilted Assessment 

of Moderate- and High-Temperature Geothermal 

Resources of the United States. 

Western States Summary

Areas of Geothermal Potential in the Western States 

Alaska 

Arizona 

California 

Colorado 

Idaho 

Montana 

Nevada 

New Mexico 

Oregon 

Utah 

Washington 

Wyoming 

The Western 

States 

Areas of Geothermal Potential in Alaska 

The USGS (2008) estimates 8,876 megawatts (MW) of 

electrical power could be generated from identified 

geothermal resources in the Western United States. The 

mean estimated power production from undiscovered 

resources is 27,598 MW, bringing the total estimated mean 

capacity for electrical power production from geothermal to 

34,474 MW. Additionally, estimated potential for new 

technologies range from 345,100 to 727,900 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 
2 

Resource Geography 

Alaska has four distinct geothermal resource regions: The Aleutian Volcanic Arc (which includes the Aleutian 

Islands as well as the Alaska Peninsula and Cook Inlet volcanoes), The Central Alaskan Hot Springs Belt 

(CAHSB), The Wrangell Volcanic Cluster, and The Alaskan Panhandle (Kolker 2007). The CAHSB has low to 

moderate temperature resources while the Aleutian Volcanic Arc holds high-temperature geothermal systems 

(Crimp 2006). The Wrangell Volcanic Cluster may have the potential for geothermal energy development: 

The Eastern Copper River Basin (ECRB), close to the western part of the Wrangell volcanoes, has been the 

subject of geothermal exploration because it contains mud volcanoes, unusual features associated with 

pressurized groundwater and/or hydrothermal aquifers. Known hot springs and an unquantified geothermal 

potential also exist in the panhandle. 

 

 

Alaska

Laney 2003a. http://geothermal.id.doe.gov/maps/ak.pdf 
3 

Utilization 

Initial exploration efforts occurred during the 1970s and 80’s to help define resource locations but inadequate 

funding stalled more substantive development. Currently, field investigations are on-going to characterize and 

further identify geothermal areas, particularly near the Chena Hot Springs Resort, where the state’s only 

current geothermal power plant (a two-unit binary system) came on-line in 2006 providing power to the 

resort and as a demonstration plant. The Chena Hot Springs plant is 

unique in that it is capable of producing power from a lowtemperature aquifer (demonstrating the recent advances made in 

geothermal technology). 

 

Geothermal energy is not presently used for large-scale electricity 

production. Direct-use applications such as building heating are 

common throughout the state and many surface resources have 

been developed for recreational purposes. The most difficult 

challenges facing geothermal power plant development in Alaska are 

the remote locations of known or potential geothermal resource 

areas, placing potential generation facilities far from existing 

transmission lines, which result in high capital costs to get power to market. A high-temperature (above 302 

degrees Fahrenheit [oF], 150 degrees Celsius [oC]) hydrothermal reservoir identified on Unalaska Island has 

been considered for the development of a 15 MW power plant to supply the city of Unalaska and Dutch 

Harbor, one of the nation's most active seaports. In addition, the State of Alaska is proposing approximately 

36,057 acres in 16 tracts on the south flank of Mount Spurr for geothermal exploration and development 

(Mount Spurr Geothermal 

Lease Sale No. 3). On 

September 10, 2008, the 

Mount Spurr lease sale was 

held. The area lies entirely 

within the Kenai Peninsula 

Borough, about 40 miles 

west of the village of 

Tyonek and about 80 miles 

west of Anchorage (Diel 

2008). However, the 

challenges of transmitting 

the electricity over the 

terrain separating the 

energy source from the 

city, coupled with subsidies 

for diesel generation, have 

necessitated additional 

feasibility studies to 

implement geothermal 

power. Field exploration of 

the leases would likely start 

in the summer of 2009 

(Mackenzie 2008). 

Alaska

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power 

generation for identified geothermal 

resources on all lands in Alaska during 

the next 30 years at 677 MW, with a 

total low-high range of 236 MW to 

1,359 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 

Geothermal Electrical Generation 

20

50

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

M W

Installed Capacity

(MW)

2015 Expected

Generation

Capacity

2025 Expected

Generation

Capacity

0.45

WGA 2006 
4 

Alaska

Alaska Land Ownerhsip

(424,000,000 total acres)

State

29%

Non-public

11%

Federal

60%

Laws and Regulations 

Alaska classifies geothermal resources as Mineral (though waters below 120oC are available for 

appropriation as groundwater and are subject to ground water law statutes), and the state claims 

ownership of all geothermal resources, including those under private lands. The state gives the 

landowner preferential right to prospecting permits and/or leases. 

 

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Oil and Gas, is responsible for the 

development of the state’s geothermal resources (Battocletti 2005). Alaska has established a 

Geothermal State Working Group with leadership from the Alaska Energy Authority. The Alaska 

group brings together state and regional energy professionals to promote the increased utilization of 

the state's geothermal resources. The state presently has no renewable portfolio standard (RPS) or 

renewable energy standard (RES). Alaska has no state funding allocated specifically for geothermal 

resource development. The state has not passed greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction legislation but 

established a Climate Impact Assessment Committee in 2006 to examine and prepare 

recommendations regarding potential future GHG legislation (Camp 2007). The Alaska State Chamber 

of Commerce published a document in January 2008 in support of a state-wide energy policy that 

includes the study and development of Alaska’s geothermal resources (ACC 2008). 

NRCM 2008
5 

Technical Capabilities 

Alaska universities, state agencies, especially the Alaska Energy Authority and the Alaska Geological Survey, 

and private firms contribute technical capabilities to the local and national geothermal communities. The 

University of Alaska has participated in various research and exploration projects throughout Alaska, including 

the investigation of the Chena Hot Springs area. 

 

Electrical Power Generation and Capacity 

Alaska has an installed geothermal electricity production capacity of 0.45 megawatt (MW) with a running 

capacity of 0.40 MW, all of which comes solely from the Chena plant. Four projects are in development, with 

a total potential capacity of 45.6-60.6 MW; 20 MW in the short-term (2015), 50 MW in the long-term (2025) 

(WGA 2006). The USGS report titled Assessment of Moderate- and High-Temperature Geothermal Resources of 

the United States provides a mean probability of electrical power generation for identified geothermal 

resources on all lands in Alaska during the next 30 years at 677 MW, with a total low-high range of 236 MW 

to 1,359 MW(USGS 2008). 

Tribal Lands 

The NANA Regional Corporation is currently conducting a Geothermal Assessment Program Feasibility 

Study to assess potential for power generation on Native Alaska lands in the NANA region (NANA 2007). 

Source: NANA regional Corp website: http://www.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/pdfs/0711review_nana.pdf.

 

Alaska
6 

Resource Geography 

High-temperature geothermal resources have yet to be discovered in Arizona; most known resources of any 

temperature are located south of the Colorado plateau. Three locations: Buckhorn Baths in Apache Junction, 

Castle Hot Springs in the Bradshaw Mountains, and Childs on the Verde River exhibit potential for 

geothermal resources and may warrant exploration (ADC 2008), while geothermal development plans for the 

counties of Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, Maricopa, Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz and Yuma were completed in the 

1970s. 

Arizona

Laney 2003a. http://geothermal.id.doe.gov/maps/az.pdf 
7 

Utilization 

Current development focuses on direct, recreational, and therapeutic 

use, particularly aquaculture, agriculture and spas. Indirect-use 

research is on-going: A United States (U.S.) Department of Energy 

(DOE) grant to drill an exploration well near Clifton Hot Springs in 

Greenlee County was awarded to the joint groups of Arizona Public 

Service (APS), Northern Arizona University, Arizona State University, 

New Mexico University and the Ormond Group. The water 

temperature ranges from 158-180° F (302-356° C) (ADC 2008). 

Researchers anticipate this area has the potential to generate 20 MW of electric power. A geothermal power 

plant has been in planning for several years at this site, but confirmation drilling is required before 

construction can begin. Northern Arizona University also received US DOE funding to perform geophysical 

and geochemical testing in the previously unexplored areas of San Francisco Volcanic Field (ADC 2008, 

Fleischmann 2007). 

 

Technical Capabilities 

There are several agencies, universities, and private companies assisting in the efforts to further explore 

Arizona's geothermal capabilities. This collaboration includes: Arizona Geological Survey, Vulcan Power, 

Northern Arizona University, Arizona State University, New Mexico University, Arizona Public Service, and 

the Ormond Group. Northern Arizona University (NAU) is also participating in outreach efforts to educate 

Arizona's population regarding geothermal resources in addition to it’s San Francisco research. 

 

Electrical Power 

Generation and Capacity 

No geothermal plants exist in the 

state as of present. One project 

(Clifton Hot Springs) is currently in 

development, with a projected 

potential of 2-20 MW, 20 MW 

short-term and 50 MW long-term 

(WGA 2006). The USGS report 

titled Assessment of Moderate- and 

High-Temperature Geothermal 

Resources of the United States

estimates a mean probability of 

electrical power generation for 

identified geothermal resources on 

all lands in Arizona during the next 

30 years at 26 MW, with a total 

low-high range of 4 MW to 70 MW 

(USGS 2008). 

 

Tribal Lands 

Maps and data for geothermal resources on tribal lands in Arizona are available through the DOE tribal 

energy program at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/guide/geo_arizona.html (USDOE 2007a). 

Arizona

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power generation 

for identified geothermal resources on all 

lands in Arizona during the next 30 years 

at 26 MW, with a total low-high range of 

4 MW to 70 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 

20

50

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

MW

2015 Expected Generation

Capacity

2025 Expected Generation

Capacity

WGA 2006 

Geothermal Electrical Generation 
8 

Arizona 

Tribes with Potential Geothermal Resources in Arizona

Ak Chin Indian Community of the Maricopa Indian Reservation

Cocopah Tribe

Colorado River Indian Tribes of the Colorado River Indian Reservation

Fort Apache Reservation

Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation of the Fort McDowell Indian Reservation

Fort Mojave Indian Tribe

Fort Yuma Indian Reservation

Gila River Indian Community of the Gila River Indian Reservation

Havasupai Tribe of the Havasupai Reservation

Hopi Tribe of Arizona:

San Carlos Apache Tribe of the San Carlos Reservation

 Northern lands

 Eastern lands

 Southwestern lands

Kaibab Indian Reservation

Hualapai Indian Tribe of the Hualapai Indian Reservation:

San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe

 Northern lands

 Southern lands

Maricopa Indian Community of the Salt River Reservation

Maricopa Indian Reservation

Navajo Nation:

 Four Corners Region lands (Northeast Arizona, Northwest New Mexico, and Southeast Utah)

 North Central Arizona and Central Utah lands

 East Central lands in Arizona

 Four Corners Region lands (Northeast Arizona, Northwest New Mexico, and Southeast Utah)

 Southeastern lands in Arizona

 Southwestern lands in Arizona

Paiute Indians of the Kaibab Indian Reservation

Pascua Yaqui Tribe

Quechan Tribe of the Fort Yuma Indian Reservation

Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community of the Salt River Reservation

Salt River Reservation

Tohono O’odham Nation

Tonto Apache Tribe

White Mountain Apache Tribe of the Fort Apache Reservation

Yavapai-Apache Nation

Yavapai-Prescott Tribe of the Yavapai Reservation
9 

Arizona

Laws and Regulations 

The state claims ownership of all geothermal resources on state lands and reserves the right to lease 

or withhold these state lands for the purpose of leasing (Battocletti 2005). The State of Arizona 

classifies geothermal resources as sui generis, indicating that they are not covered by a ‘Use Class’ but 

effectively are in a class of their own. 

 

Several state agencies have jurisdiction over potential geothermal projects. The Arizona Department 

of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is responsible for the disposal of waters associated with geothermal 

projects. The State Department of Water Resources must be consulted to obtain well construction 

permits and to secure water rights, and the Department of Commerce Community Planning Office 

should be contacted regarding planning and zoning issues across the state (Battocletti 2005). 

Arizona’s Geothermal Working Group has established two primary tasks: collecting data on all of the 

current state geothermal applications and documented resources, and identifying future energy 

development activities that will be the most beneficial to the state. 

 

Arizona has set a RPS of 7 percent by 2017 and 15 percent by 2025 (60 percent of which will come 

from solar and 30 percent of which will be distributed energy). The RPS for geothermal electrical and 

geothermal heat pumps is 15 percent by 2025 (Richter 2007). There is currently no state funding or 

incentive for geothermal development (USDOE 2007). The state has GHG reduction targets aiming 

for year 2000 GHG levels by 2020 and 50 percent below 2000 levels by 2040, and is considering 

legislation to set these targets (Camp 2007). 

NRCM 2008

Arizona Land Ownership

(72,731,000 total acres)

Federal

41%

State

12%

Non-public

47%
10 

Resource Geography 

California has several high-potential geothermal areas, and much 

of the state, with the exception of the Central Valley and the far 

northwest corner, displays potential for geothermal resources 

(USDOE 2007). Twenty-five known geothermal resource areas 

exist in the state (CEC 2008), including north of Santa Rosa at the 

Geysers, in the northeastern part of the state, in the Owens 

Valley and eastern Sierras, in the Mojave Desert, and at the Salton 

Sea and Imperial Valley in southern California (CDC 2008, CEC 

2008). 

 

Utilization 

California currently leads the nation and world in geothermal 

electricity generation, with seven percent of the state’s total power production output coming from 

geothermal resources. Six counties produce geothermal resources hot enough for electrical power 

generation (CDC 2008). The state has over 600 active, high-temperature geothermal wells (with fluids over 

212° F, 100° C) and 230 injection wells (CEC 2008). 

 

There are 15 electrical power projects in various stages of development in California (with a total MW 

potential of 921.3-969.3), and the Western Governor’s Association Geothermal Task Force projects up to 

2,400 MW of additional power production capacity for potential near-term development (Richter 2007). 

Direct use of geothermal power in California is expanding and consists of aquaculture, agriculture, recreation, 

and food dehydration (CDC 2008). The largest concentration of geothermal aquaculture facilities in the US is 

in the Imperial Valley (Rafferty 1999). 

Technical Capabilities 

California universities, state agencies, and private firms contribute technical capabilities to the local and 

national geothermal communities. The California Energy Commission maintains databases of geothermal 

resource information and produces numerous reports on state resources and development opportunities. 

California Land Ownership

(99,822,000 total acres)

Non-public

58%

State

2%

Federal

40%

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power 

generation for identified geothermal 

resources on all lands in California 

during the next 30 years at 5,404 MW, 

with a total low-high range of 2,422 

MW to 9,282 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 

California

NRCM 2008
11 

Laney 2003c. http://geothermal.id.doe.gov/maps/ca.pdf 

California
12 

Electrical Power Generation and Capacity 

Approximately 40 percent of total world-wide geothermal plant production takes place in California, largely 

due to the presence of the Geysers, a collection of 41 geothermal power plants located north of San 

Francisco, which is the world’s largest producer of geothermal power. Additional plants are located in the 

Imperial Valley (east of San Diego), at Coso Hot Springs near Ridgecrest, at Amedee/Wineagle near Susanville, 

and at the Mammoth Lakes area in Long Valley. 

 

California has a literature-cited installed geothermal power capacity of 2,492.10 MW, with a current running 

capacity of 2030.47 MW. Approximately 14,379 GWh (gigawatt hour) of geothermal energy is produced 

annually from 49 plants (composed of 67 units total). These plants include binary, dry steam, single flash, 

double flash, dual flash, hybrid-biomass/geothermal, and dry team-low pressure reaction types (Richter 2007) 

and include sites at Amedee, Casa Diablo, East Mesa, Glass Mountain, Heber, Honey Lake, and Salton Sea, in 

addition to those previously mentioned. The same literature cites a short-term projected geothermal 

electricity generation potential for the state of 2,375 MW, with a long-term potential of 4,703 MW (WGA 

2006). The USGS report titled Assessment of Moderate- and High-Temperature Geothermal Resources of the 

United States estimates a mean probability of electrical power generation for identified geothermal resources 

on all lands in California during the next 30 years at 5,404 MW, with a total low-high range of 2,422 MW to 

9,282 MW (USGS 2008). 

 

California

Geothermal Electrical Generation 

WGA 2006 

2030

2375

4703

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

3500

4000

4500

5000

MW

Installed Capacity

(MW)

2015 Expected

Generation Capacity

2025 Expected

Generation Capacity
13 

California

Laws and Regulations 

California classifies geothermal resources as Mineral and claims ownership of these resources where 

they occur on state-owned land; otherwise, the resource is the property of the owner of the mineral 

estate. Permits for siting power plants greater than or equal to 50 MW on all lands, including federal 

lands, are issued by the California Energy Commission. The Division of Oil, Gas, and Geothermal 

Resources is the lead agency for the environmental review of exploratory wells (excluding Imperial 

County) and permits the drilling, operation, plugging, and abandonment of all production and 

injection wells. The local authority is the lead agency for the environmental review of developmental 

wells, pipelines, and power plants generating less than 50 MW (Battocletti 2005). California has 

established a Geothermal State Working Group, with leadership from the California Energy 

Commission. The California group brings together state and regional energy professionals for 

workshops and other outreach activities. A geothermal industry summit was held in Sacramento in 

2004, during which geothermal stakeholders examined opportunities for further development in 

relation to California’s RPS legislation, as well as grid interconnection and industry partnership 

topics. 

 

The state’s RPS requires 20% renewable energy by 2010, with a minimum increase of one percent 

each year. The RPS mandates geothermal electric growth of one percent over the previous year, at 

least 20 percent by 2010, and a long-term goal of 33 percent by 2020 (Richter 2007). California’s 

three largest investor-owned utilities collected served 12.7% of their 2007 retail electricity sales with 

renewable power. Of that, 47.9% came from geothermal (CPUC 2008). The state offers 

supplemental energy payments applicable to geothermal power plants through its RPS, as well as 

energy efficiency rebates. In 2006 California passed a GHG law setting reduction targets of 1990 

levels by 2020 and 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. The state requires a performance standard 

for electricity generation and sales of 1,100 lbs of CO2 per MWh (Camp 2007). 

 
14 

Tribal Lands 

Maps and data for geothermal resources on tribal lands in California are available through the DOE tribal 

energy program at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/guide/geo_california.html (USDOE 2007b). The 

table on the following two pages indicates which tribes data is available for at the DOE website. 

California 

Tribes with Potential Geothermal Resources in California 

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians of the Agua Caliente Indian 

Reservation 

Alturas Indian Rancheria of Pit River Indians 

Auburn Rancheria Augustine Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians 

Barona Reservation Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria 

Benton Paiute Reservation Berry Creek Rancheria of Maidu Indians 

Big Lagoon Rancheria of Smith River Indians Big Pine Band of Owens Valley Paiute Shoshone Indians 

Big Sandy Rancheria of Mono Indians Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians of the Big Valley Rancheria 

Bishop Reservation Blue Lake Rancheria 

Bridgeport Paiute Indian Colony Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians 

Cabazon Band of Cahullia Mission Indians of the Cabazon Reservation Cahuilla Band of Mission Indians of the Cahuilla Reservation 

Cahto Indian Tribe of the Laytonville Rancheria California Valley Miwok Tribe (formerly the Sheep Ranch Rancheria of 

Me-Wuk Indians) 

Campo Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of the Campo Indian 

Reservation 

Capitan Grande Band of Mission Indians of the Barona Reservation 

Capitan Grande Band of Mission Indians of the Viejas Reservation Cedarville Reservation of Northern Paiute Indians 

Chemehuevi Indian Tribe of the Chemehuevi Reservation Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria 

Chicken Ranch Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians Chico Rancheria 

Cloverdale Rancheria of Pomo Indians Coast Indian Community of Yurok Indians of the Resighini Rancheria 

Cold Springs Rancheria of Mono Indians Colorado River Indian Tribes of the Colorado River Indian Reservation 

Colusa Rancheria Cortina Indian Rancheria 

Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Cuyapaipe Community of Diegueno Mission Indians of the Cuyapaipe Reservation 

Death Valley Timbi-Sha Shoshone Band Dry Creek Rancheria of Pomo Indians 

Elem Indian Colony of Pomo Indians of the Sulphur Bank Rancheria Elk Valley Rancheria 

Enterprise Rancheria of Maidu Indians Fort Bidwell Indian Community of Paiute Indians 

Fort Independence Indian Community of Paiute Indians Fort Mojave Indian Tribe 

Fort Yuma Indian Reservation Greenville Rancheria of Maidu Indians 

Grindstone Creek Rancheria of Wintun-Wailaki Indians Guidiville Rancheria 

Hoopa Valley Tribe Hopland Band of Pomo Indians of the Hopland Rancheria 

Inaja Cosmit Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of the Inaja and Cosmit 

Reservation 

Jackson Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians 

Jamul Band of Mission Indians, Jamul Indian Village Karuk Tribe 

Kashia Band of Pomo Indians of the Stewarts Point Rancheria La Jolla Band of Luiseno Mission Indians of the La Jolla Reservation 

La Posta Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of the La Posta Indian 

Reservation 

Lone Pine Paiute Shoshone Reservation 

Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians of the Los Coyotes 

Reservation 

Lytton Band of Pomo Indians at the Lytton Rancheria 

Manchester Band of Pomo Indians of the Manchester-Point Arena 

Rancheria 

Manzanita Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of the Manzanita Reservation 
15 

California

 

Tribes with Potential Geothermal Resources in California (continued)

Mechoopda Indian Tribe of Chico Rancheria Mesa Grande Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of the Mesa Grande 

Reservation 

Middletown Rancheria of Pomo Indians Mooretown Rancheria of Maidu Indians 

Morongo Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians of the Morongo Reservation North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians 

Paiute-Shoshone Indians of the Bishop Community of the Bishop 

Reservation 

Pala Band of Luiseno Mission Indians of the Pala Reservation 

Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians Pauma Band of Luiseno Mission Indians of the Pauma and Yuima Reservation 

Pechanga Band of Luiseno Mission Indians of the Pechanga Reservation Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians 

Pine Community of the Lone Pine Reservation Pinoleville Band of Pomo Indians 

Pit River Tribe: 

XL Ranch and Likely and Lookout Rancherias 

Quartz Valley Indian Community of the Quartz Valley Reservation 

Big Bend, Montgomery Creek, and Roaring Creek Rancherias 

Ramona Band or Village of Cahuilla Mission Indians Potter Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians 

Redwood Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians Quechan Tribe of the Fort Yuma Indian Reservation 

Rincon Band of Luiseno Mission Indians of the Rincon Reservation Redding Rancheria 

Rohnerville Rancheria Resighini Rancheria (formerly known as the Coast Indian Community of Yurok 

Indians of the Resighini Rancheria) 

Rumsey Indian Rancheria of Wintun Indians Robinson Rancheria of Pomo Indians 

San Pasqual Band of Diegueno Mission Indians Round Valley Indian Tribes of the Round Valley Reservation (formerly known as 

the Covelo Indian Community) 

Santa Rosa Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians of the Santa Rosa Reservation San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians of the San Manuel Reservation 

Santa Ysabel Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of the Santa Ysabel 

Reservation 

Santa Rosa Indian Community of the Santa Rosa Rancheria 

Sherwood Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Mission Indians of the Santa Ynez Reservation 

Smith River Rancheria Sheep Ranch Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians 

Stewarts Point Rancheria Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians, Shingle Springs Rancheria (Verona Tract) 

Sycuan Band of Diegueno Mission Indians Soboba Band of Luiseno Mission Indians of the Soboba Reservation 

Wiyot Tribe Table Bluff Reservation Susanville Indian Rancheria of Paiute, Maidu, Pit River & Washoe Indians 

Torres-Martinez Band of Desert Cahuilla Mission Indians Trinidad Rancheria 

Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians of the Tuolumne Rancheria Table Mountain Rancheria 

United Auburn Indian Community of the Auburn Rancheria Tule River Indian Tribe of the Tule River Reservation 

Utu Utu Gwaitu Paiute Tribe of the Benton Paiute Reservation Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians (Chemehuevi) 

Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California of the Woodfords Community Upper Lake Rancheria 

Viejas Reservation Yurok Tribe of the Yurok Reservation 
16 

Resource Geography 

Expert opinion suggests Colorado has a large geothermal resource base, although development in the state 

has so far been limited to direct-use applications. When last inventoried in 1993, Colorado had 59 sites with 

water temperatures above 95° F (35° C) and 34 geothermal wells (CGS 2007). High-temperature resources 

exist at greater depth beneath most of the mountainous regions of the state (CGS 2007, CSWG 2007). From 

preliminary heat flow and geothermal gradient maps, several areas can be identified that have potential for 

geothermal power generation. These locations include the Mt. Princeton area near Buena Vista, the Waunita 

Hot Springs area in southeast Gunnison County, the San Luis Basin especially along its margins, the San Juan 

Mountains near Ouray and Rico, Pagosa Springs, the Raton Basin west of Trinidad, and possibly an area near 

Somerset. Also, past geothermal and geochemistry studies at hot springs in the Steamboat Springs area 

indicate geothermal resources at depth may have temperatures above 250° F (121° C). Oil and gas 

development has also indicated geothermal resource potential in both the Denver and San Juan Basins 

(CSWG 2007). 

 

Utilization 

Geothermal electric power has not historically been considered 

competitive given low energy prices in the state. Thus further 

exploration and analysis is needed to characterize known 

geothermal prospects and determine what would be needed for 

development. As suggested above, some resources may require 

deep drilling, while small power units similar to the plant at Chena 

Hot Springs in Alaska may be applicable in some locations 

(Fleischmann 2007). Current plans for development continue to 

focus on direct-use, particularly for recreation, therapeutic 

properties and aquaculture. Several unique aquaculture-related 

projects are currently in operation, i.e. alligator farms (Clutter 

2001). 

 

Technical Capabilities 

Colorado universities, state agencies, and private firms contribute technical capabilities to the local and 

national geothermal communities. The Colorado Geological Survey has conducted and published various 

assessments of the state's geothermal resource base, while the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in 

Golden, Colorado is the nation's leading institution for the research and development of renewable energy 

technologies, including geothermal energy. Currently the Colorado Geological Survey is compiling a 

Colorado-specific geothermal database, which will be used to create an updated and more detailed state-wide 

heat flow map and geothermal gradient map (CSWG 2007). 

 

Colorado

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power 

generation for identified geothermal 

resources on all lands in Colorado 

during the next 30 years at 30 MW, 

with a total low-high range of 8 MW to 

67 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 
17 

CGS 2007b. http://geosurvey.state.co.us/Default.aspx?tabid=484

Colorado
18 

Electrical Power Generation and Capacity 

The only electrical power project is a 10 MW development currently in phase one that is tapping into the 

resort hot springs at Mount Princeton Hot Springs in the central Chaffee County town of Nathrop (Colorado 

Energy News 2008). Literature cites a short-term geothermal potential of 20 MW, with a long-term potential 

of 50 MW (WGA 2006). The USGS report titled Assessment of Moderate- and High-Temperature Geothermal 

Resources of the United States estimates a mean probability of electrical power generation for identified 

geothermal resources on all lands in Colorado during the next 30 years at 30 MW, with a total low-high 

range of 8 MW to 67 MW (USGS 2008). The Colorado Geological Survey reports that the state displays a 

number of criteria for geothermal power potential, including quarternary volcanoes and fault lines, and one of 

the highest high flows in the US. Studies 

indicate that Colorado may have some 

of the best high-temperature resources 

in the country for extraction via 

“enhanced geothermal system” or “hot 

dry-rock” technology (CGS 2007). A hot 

dry-rock resource is deep, hot crystalline 

rock that can be used to generate 

geothermal energy by pumping water 

down to the rock and thus heating it 

before it returns to the surface 

(Battocletti 2005). 

 

Geothermal Electrical Generation 

WGA 2006 

Colorado

NRCM 2008

20

50

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

M W

2015 Expected

Generation Capacity

2025 Expected

Generation Capacity

Colorado Land Ownership

(66,387,000 total acres)

Federal

35%

State

4%

Non-public

61%
19 

Tribal Lands 

Maps and data for geothermal resources on tribal lands in Colorado are available through the DOE tribal 

energy program at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/guide/geo_colorado.html (USDOE 2007c). 

Tribes for which information is available on this site are listed below. 

 

Tribes with Potential Geothermal Resources in Colorado

 Southern Ute Indian Tribe of the Southern Ute Reservation: 

 Main tribal lands 

 Western-most tribal lands 

Ute Mountain Tribe of the Ute Mountain Reservation 

Laws and Regulations 

The State of Colorado classifies geothermal resources means the natural heat of the earth both 

the energy and the fluid used to extract the heat. Geothermal fluids are considered water 

resources and thus are publicly-owned. A property right to a hot dry-rock resource is an 

incidence of the overlaying surface, unless several resources are transferred with the 

subsurface estate expressly (Rein 2008). 

 

The Colorado Division of Water Resources is the lead state agency administering geothermal 

resource rules and regulations, as well as overseeing the permitting of injection wells. The US 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Region 8, has primacy however, and oversees the 

administration of underground fluid injection wells. The State Department of Public Health and 

Environment’s Water Quality Control Division is responsible for administering surface disposal 

of wastewater, including geothermal fluids (Battocletti 2005). Colorado has established a 

Geothermal State Working Group with leadership from Delta-Montrose Electric Association. 

The Colorado group is in the process of bringing together state and regional energy 

professionals to work together to promote the increased utilization of the state's geothermal 

resources. Colorado has a RPS of 20 percent by 2020 for investor-owned utilities (IOUs) and 

ten percent for rural co-ops and municipality utilities (four percent solar for 2007-2010 for 

IOUs only) (Richter 2007). Outside of the RPS the state offers no incentives for geothermal 

development and no funding is available at the state level for development. Colorado 

Governor Bill Ritter issued Executive Order D-004-08 on April 22, 2008, establishing a 

statewide greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal of 20% below 2005 levels by 2020 and 80% 

below 2005 levels by 2050. Colorado is also an observer to the Western Climate Initiative 

(WCI). On August 22, 2007, eight states and Canadian provinces comprising the WCI 

announced the establishment of a regional goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the 

West to 15% below 2005 levels by 2020 (Camp 2007). 

 

Colorado
20 

20 

Resource Geography 

Idaho has both low-temperature geothermal sources for 

potential direct-use and high-temperature sites (concentrated 

in the southern part of the state) that may provide 

opportunities for electricity production (Crimp 2006). 

Utilization 

Current development focuses on community heating though construction of the state’s first geothermal 

power generation facility, a 10-MW plant at Raft River (approximately 200 miles southeast of Boise) that was 

completed in January 2008 (USGI 2008). 

 

Past exploration and development efforts have been limited, as low energy costs and the small size of the 

state’s population did not necessitate new sources of electric power. Thus, further exploration and 

characterization of Idaho’s geothermal resources is needed to better define the state’s resource potential 

(Fleischmann 2007). In addition to Raft River, three other sites are being investigated for potential electricity 

generation: the China Cap site in Caribou County (with a literature-estimated capacity of 100 MW), an area 

near Willow Springs (with a literature-estimated capacity of 100 MW), and a site at Crane Creek in western 

Idaho (with a literature-estimated value of 100-179 MW) (Neely 2007). 

Technical Capabilities 

The Idaho National Laboratory houses national expertise in the research and development of geothermal 

energy resources. The laboratory maintains databases of geological characteristics to aid in the 

characterization and development of geothermal reservoirs nationwide. Additionally, the Idaho Department 

of Water Resources provides technical support for geothermal projects in the state and conducts educational 

outreach activities to promote further geothermal development. A new Idaho Office of Energy was created in 

2008 and completed a geothermal strategic plan in 2009. 

Electric Power Generation 

and Capacity 

Four projects are in development, with 

a total literature-estimated MW 

potential of 39-239. Literature-cited 

potential energy production from 

geothermal resources places estimates 

at 855 MW short-term and 1,670 MW 

long-term (WGA 2006). The USGS 

report titled Assessment of Moderateand High-Temperature Geothermal 

Resources of the United States estimates 

a mean probability of electrical power 

generation for identified geothermal 

resources on all lands in Idaho during 

the next 30 years at 333 MW, with a 

total low-high range of 81 MW to 760 

MW (USGS 2008). 

Idaho 

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power generation 

for identified geothermal resources on all 

lands in Idaho during the next 30 years at 

333 MW, with a total low-high range of 81 

MW to 760 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 

Geothermal Electrical Generation 

WGA 2006 

239

855

1670

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

1600

1800

MW

Installed Capacity

(MW)

2015 Expected

Generation Capacity

2025 Expected

Generation Capacity
21 

21 Idaho 

Laney 2003d. http://geothermal.id.doe.gov/maps/
22 

22 

Tribal Lands 

Maps and data for geothermal resources on tribal lands in Idaho are available through the DOE tribal 

energy program at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/guide/geo_idaho.html (USDOE 2007d). 

Tribes for which information is 

available are listed below. 

 Coeur D’Alene Tribe of the 

Coeur D’Alene Reservation 

 Duck Valley Reservation 

 Fort Hall Reservation 

 Kootenai Tribe 

 Nez Perce Tribe 

 Shoshone-Bannock Tribes of 

the Fort Hall Reservation 

 Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the 

Duck Valley Reservation

Idaho 

Idaho classifies geothermal resources as sui generis and Water. Groundwater with a temperature greater 

than or equal to 212o F at the well bottom fall under the category of sui generis and is further classified as 

a “geothermal resource.” Groundwater between 85-212o F at the well bottom is classified as a “low 

temperature geothermal resource.” The state claims ownership of all geothermal resources underlying 

state and school lands and holds the right to regulate development and use of all of the state’s geothermal 

resources (Battocletti 2005). 

The Idaho Department of Water Resources issues water rights, well-drilling permits, and injection well 

permits. The state’s DEQ Water Quality Division is responsible for administering surface disposal of 

wastewater, including geothermal fluids. The Idaho Department of Lands has a process that includes 

permitting, bonding, and royalties. The state does not have comprehensive environmental review statutes 

and does not coordinate permitting at the state level. Developers must obtain permits from state and 

local boards and agencies. The use of “geothermal resources” (as classified by the state) does not require 

a permit to appropriate water unless it will decrease groundwater in any aquifer or other groundwater 

resource, or measurably decrease groundwater available from prior water rights. The use of “lowtemperature geothermal resources” requires a permit to appropriate water (Battocletti 2005). Idaho has 

established a Geothermal State Working Group, with leadership from the Idaho Energy Division. The 

group organizes workshops to promote the increased utilization of the state’s geothermal resources. 

 

Idaho currently has no RES or RPS (Richter 2007) but does offer incentives for geothermal development, 

including low-interest loans and sales tax exemption for equipment used in construction of geothermal 

plants. Minimal state funding is allocated for geothermal development (most previous research has been 

federally funded). The state has no GHG laws or pending legislation. As of May 2007, the Director of the 

Idaho Department of Environmental Quality is, by executive order, to develop GHG reduction strategies 

(Camp 2007). 

Laws and Regulations 

Idaho Land Ownership

(52,960,000 total acres)

State

5%

Non-public

33%

Federal

62%

NRCM 2008
23 

23 

Resource Geography 

The state of Montana has 

more than 50 geothermal 

areas and at least 15 hightemperature sites. There are 

seven locations with surface 

temperatures above 149° F 

(65° C), plus 20 locations 

with temperatures above 

110° F (43° C). Low- and 

moderate-temperature wells 

and springs can be found in 

nearly all areas of Montana 

(MDEQ 2008). 

The US DOE and Montana state government have joined together to organize a database of locations where 

geothermal resources have been identified. Records show at least 15 high-temperature sites, several with 

estimated deep reservoir temperatures exceeding 176.7o C. Some of these sites are located in the vicinity of 

Helena, Bozeman, Ennis, Butte, Boulder, and White Sulphur Springs (Fleischmann 2007, MDEQ 2008). 

 

Utilization 

While there are many areas in Montana with the potential to support geothermal electrical generation, 

development has thus far been limited to direct-use applications due to the proximity of previously proposed 

plans to Yellowstone National Park, an issue that created controversy and concern. Geothermal electrical 

development has also been overlooked in the past due to the state’s low fossil fuel prices, small population, 

and lack of transmission access to remote locations (Fleischmann 2007). Current development focuses on 

direct-use (mostly recreational and therapeutic). One private company is currently exploring the possibility of 

installing a small binary plant near an existing spa (Battocletti 2005). 

 

Electrical Power Generation and Capacity 

There is presently no installed geothermal electric capacity in the state. 

The Western Governors’ Association report did not identify 

geothermal resource potential for electrical generation in Montana, 

however, input for state and industry acknowledge that new 

technologies and undiscovered resources may yield geothermal 

resources that are viable for electrical generation in the future. A 

recent study regarding deep oil wells at Poplar Dome Oil Field (located 

on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation in northeast Montana) indicated 

potential for generating one MW from producing oil wells or three 

MW by deepening and hydrofracturing unused wells. This area 

currently produces 20,000 barrels per day of water at 130oC and there is interest in the possibility of the area 

supporting small geothermal power plants. The USGS report titled Assessment of Moderate- and HighTemperature Geothermal Resources of the United States estimates a mean probability of electrical power 

generation for identified geothermal resources on all lands in Montana during the next 30 years at 59 MW, 

with a total low-high range of 15 MW to 130 MW (USGS 2008). 

Montana 

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power 

generation for identified geothermal 

resources on all lands in Montana 

during the next 30 years at 59 MW, 

with a total low-high range of 15 MW 

to 130 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 

Montana Land Ownership

(93,156,000 total acres)

Federal

29%

Non-public

65%

State

6%

NRCM 2008
24 

Montana 24 

Laney 2003e. http://geothermal.id.doe.gov/maps.mt.pdf
25 

25 

Tribal Lands 

Maps and data for geothermal resources on tribal lands in Montana are available through the DOE tribal 

energy program at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/guide/geo_montana.html (USDOE 2007e). 

Tribes for which information is available are listed below. 

Montana 

Laws and Regulations 

The state of Montana classifies geothermal resources as sui generis and claims ownership to geothermal 

resources on state lands. State water laws apply to all geothermal development involving production and 

diversion of geothermal fluids. Groundwater is defined by the state as a public reserve that must be 

appropriated (Battocletti 2005).

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation is responsible for issuing water rights and 

well construction permits. The US EPA, Region 8, oversees the administration of underground fluid injection. 

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is responsible for administering surface disposal of 

wastewater, including geothermal fluids (Battocletti 2005). A state Geothermal Working Group is planned for 

Montana (USDOE 2007). The state currently has a RPS that requires IOUs to obtain 5 percent of their energy 

from renewable sources for years 2008-2009, 10 percent for 2010-2014, and 15 percent for 2015 and each 

year after (Richter 2007). Geothermal power plants are eligible for RPS incentives as well as tax credits, grants, 

and loans; however, no state funding is currently available specifically for geothermal development. In May 

2007, Montana passed GHG legislation prohibiting the approval of new coal generating units unless 50 percent 

of CO2 emitted is captured and sequestered (Camp 2007). 

Tribes with Potential Geothermal Resources in Montana

Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation: 

 Eastern lands 

 Western lands 

Blackfeet Tribe of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation 

Chippewa-Cree Indians of the Rocky Boy’s Reservation 

Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Reservation 

Crow Tribe: 

 Main tribal lands 

 Easternmost lands 

Flathead Reservation 

Fort Belknap Reservation 

Fort Peck Indian Reservation: 

 Eastern lands 

 Western lands 

Gros Ventre & Assiniboine Tribes of the Fort Belknap Reservation 

Northern Cheyenne Tribe of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation 

Rocky Boy’s Reservation 
26 

26 

Resource Geography 

High-temperature (>150o C) resources suitable for electric power production are located primarily in the 

northwest portion of the state, while direct-use occurs state-wide, particularly in regard to food processing 

plants. There are several geothermal research facilities in the state, and field investigations are ongoing to 

further characterize geothermal resources (NCMR 2008). 

Utilization 

Nevada is second to California in levels of geothermal electricity 

production. Direct-use in the state consists primarily of agriculture 

drying and industrial applications such as mining (Lund 2003). 

Technical Capabilities 

Nevada universities, state agencies, and private firms contribute 

technical capabilities to the local and national geothermal 

communities. The Great Basin Center for Geothermal Energy, part 

of the University of Nevada at Reno (UNR), conducts geologic 

research and has produced a database of Nevada’s geothermal 

resources to accelerate projects in the Great Basin region. Additionally, the UNR Redfield branch campus will 

feature a Renewable Energy Center for research and education in renewable energy systems. 

Electrical Power Generation and 

Capacity 

There are 15 geothermal plants (totaling 40 

units) in operation in the state (NCMR 2008). 

A 20-MW capacity plant was commissioned 

at Steamboat in November 2005, the first in 

response to the state’s RPS. Literature-cited 

potential energy production from geothermal 

resources places estimates at 1,488 MW 

short-term and 2,895 MW long-term (WGA 

2006). The USGS report titled Assessment of 

Moderate- and High-Temperature Geothermal 

Resources of the United States estimates a 

mean probability of electrical power 

generation for identified geothermal 

resources on all lands in Nevada during the 

next 30 years at 1,391 MW, with a total lowhigh range of 515 MW to 2,551 MW (USGS 

2008). Future plans include power generation in the Pumpernickel Valley, Stillwater, and Salt Wells areas and 

within Washoe, Churchill, Humboldt, and Elko Counties. Power purchase contracts have already been 

established with local utilities for proposed power plant construction at some locations). Additionally, on 

August 5, 2008, a BLM lease sale for geothermal resources was held for lands in Churchill, Elko, Esmeralda, 

Humboldt, Lander, Mineral, Nye and Pershing Counties. The manner in which Nevada has combined federal 

and state efforts to develop geothermal resources has been very effective and could serve as a model for 

other states (Battocletti 2005). 

Nevada 

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power 

generation for identified geothermal 

resources on all lands in Nevada during 

the next 30 years at 1,391 MW, with a 

total low-high range of 515 MW to 

2,551 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 

Geothermal Electrical Generation 

297.4

1488

2895

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

MW

Installed Capacity

(MW)

2015 Expected

Generation Capacity

2025 Expected

Generation Capacity

WGA 2006 
27 

Nevada 27 

UNR 2007 http://www.unr.edu/Geothermal/pdffiles/NV_GEOTHERM.pdf) 
28 

Nevada 28 

Laws and Regulations 

Nevada classifies geothermal resources as both Mineral and Water. Resources in the state belong to the 

owner of the surface estate unless they have been reserved by or conveyed to another individual (NCMR 

2006, Battocletti 2005). 

 

The state’s lead geothermal regulatory agency is the Division of Minerals Commission on Mineral Resources, 

which issues permits to drill or operate geothermal wells. The length of the permitting process varies 

depending on well type, location, and the agencies involved. Permitting for a commercial or industrial well 

could take 45 days whether on private or federal lands. Permitting for wells on federal land by a federal agency 

takes a minimum of three months; however, periods of a year or more are typical. Unlike California, Idaho, and 

the Pacific Northwest, where a number of the best geothermal prospects are located on USFS land, most of 

Nevada’s promising resources are on federal land managed by the BLM (Battocletti 2005). 

 

The Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Division of Water Resources are responsible 

for issuing water rights. The State Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Water 

Pollution Control oversees the administration of underground fluid injection wells as well as the administration 

of surface disposal of wastewater, including geothermal fluids. The Nevada Department of Environmental 

Protection administers the Clean Water and Clean Air Acts (Battocletti 2005). Nevada has established a 

Geothermal State Working Group, with leadership from the Nevada Division of Minerals-Oil, Gas and 

Geothermal Program. The Nevada group brings together state and regional energy professionals to promote 

the increased utilization of the state’s geothermal resources. 

 

The state’s RPS stipulates a requirement of 20 percent renewable energy by 2015 (solar being five percent of 

annual and one percent of total generation). The RPS for geothermal electric and hot water district heating 

systems recommends an increase of up to 20 percent by 2015 (Richter 2007). Nevada’s geothermal 

development is primarily federally funded; however, the state offers the incentive of property-tax exemption 

for geothermal power plants. The state has no GHG reduction targets but is considering GHG legislation 

(SB422) that would require power plant emissions to be below 2006 levels for 2011-2014, below 2005 levels in 

2015, one percent below each of the previous years for 2016-2019, and one and a half percent below 2019 

levels for 2020 (Camp 2007). 

Nevada Land Ownership

(70,276,000 total acres)

Federal

81%

Non-public

19%

State

< 1%

NRCM 2008
29 

29 

Tribal Lands 

Maps and data for geothermal resources on tribal lands in Nevada are available through the DOE tribal energy 

program at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/guide/geo_nevada.html (USDOE 2007f). Tribes for 

which information is available are listed below. 

Nevada

Tribes with Potential Geothermal Resources in Nevada 

Confederated Tribes of the Goshute Reservation 

Duck Valley Reservation 

Duckwater Shoshone Tribe of the Duckwater Reservation 

Ely Shoshone Tribe 

Fallon Reservation and Colony 

Fort McDermitt Paiute and Shoshone Tribes of the Fort McDermitt Indian Reservation 

Fort Mojave Indian Tribe 

Goshute Reservation 

Las Vegas Tribe of Paiute Indians of the Las Vegas Indian Colony 

Lovelock Paiute Tribe of the Lovelock Indian ColonyMoapa Band of Paiute Indians of the Moapa River Indian Reservation 

Paiute-Shoshone Tribe of the Fallon Reservation and Colony 

Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe of the Pyramid Lake Reservation 

Reno-Sparks Indian Colony 

Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Reservation 

Summit Lake Paiute Tribe 

Te-Moak Tribes of Western Shoshone Indians: 

 Battle Mountain Band 

 South Fork Band 

 Elko Band 

 Wells Band 

Walker River Paiute Tribe of the Walker River Reservation 

Winnemucca Indian Colony 

Yerington Paiute Tribe of the Yerington Colony and Campbell Ranch 

Yomba Shoshone Tribe of the Yomba Reservation 

Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California: 

 Carson Colony 

 Dresslerville Community 

 Stewart Community 
30 

30 

Resource Geography 

New Mexico contains abundant geothermal resources throughout 

a large temperature gradient. In a recent update of the geothermal 

database for New Mexico, 359 discrete thermal wells and springs 

were identified (NMEMNRD 2007). Resources suitable for most 

development are concentrated in the west and north-central 

regions of the state, with high-temperature gradients ranging from 

1.6° F to 2.5° F per 100 feet of depth (NMEM 2006). There are no 

geothermal power plants currently operating; however, direct-use applications are ongoing. The northwest 

region contains volcanic activity from the Valles Caldera in the Jemez Mountain Range (west of Los Alamos), 

where the only known high-temperature geothermal system in the state occurs (base temperatures in this 

system exceed 500° F, 260° C). 

While other potential geothermal resource areas exist, limited research has been done and most areas are 

without apparent surface manifestations. These areas are high risk, and developers in the state may need 

government funding to aid with early exploration and to reduce the high investment risk associated with their 

development. Sites in eight counties (Doña Ana, Grant, Hidalgo, McKinley, Rio Arriba, San Miguel, Sandoval, 

and Valencia), have been identified as potential geothermal resources (NMEMNRD 2007). The Rio Grande 

Rift area, specifically near Las Cruces, also needs to be explored in greater detail (Fleischmann 2007). 

Utilization 

There is one 10 MW geothermal power plant operating near Animas, in southwestern New Mexico, which 

was constructed in late 2008. Other direct-use applications are ongoing. 

Technical Capabilities 

New Mexico universities, state agencies, and private firms contribute technical capabilities to the local and 

national geothermal communities. New Mexico State University (NMSU) at Las Cruces conducted geothermal 

research that resulted in the development of a geothermal space-heating system that at one point heated up 

to 30 campus buildings such as dorms and athletic facilities. Sandia National Laboratory in Albuquerque is one 

of the three main national laboratories working on geothermal research and development. 

New Mexico 

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power generation 

for identified geothermal resources on all 

lands in New Mexico during the next 30 

years at 170 MW, with a total low-high 

range of 53 MW to 343 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 
31 

New Mexico 31 

Lacey 2003f. http://geothermal.id.doe.gov/maps/nm.pdf
32 

32 

Electrical Power Generation and Capacity 

The state has two projects in development, with a total estimated potential of 21 MW. Literature estimates 

cite a short-term geothermal electricity generation potential of 80 MW and a long-term potential of 170 MW 

(WGA 2006). The USGS report titled Assessment of Moderate- and High-Temperature Geothermal Resources of 

the United States estimates a mean probability of electrical power generation for identified geothermal 

resources on all lands in New Mexico during the next 30 years at 170 MW, with a total low-high range of 53 

MW to 343 MW (USGS 2008). 

New Mexico

Geothermal Electrical Generation 

21

80

170

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

MW

Installed Capacity

(MW)

2015 Expected

Generation

Capacity

2025 Expected

Generation

Capacity

WGA 2006 
33 

33 

Tribal Lands 

Maps and data for geothermal resources on tribal lands in New Mexico are available through the DOE tribal 

energy program at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/guide/geo_newmexico.html (USDOE 2007g). 

Tribes for which information is available are listed below. 

New Mexico

Tribes with Potential Geothermal Resources in New Mexico

Jicarilla Apache Tribe of the Jicarilla Apache Indian Reservation

Mescalero Apache

Navajo Nation:

 Northwestern lands in New Mexico

 Northeastern lands in New Mexico

 Southwestern lands in New Mexico 

 Southeastern lands in New Mexico

 Alamo Navajo Chapter

 Canoncito (Tohajiileeh) Chapter Ramah Navajo Chapter

Pueblo of Acoma

Pueblo of Cochiti

Pueblo of Isleta

Pueblo of Jemez

Pueblo of Laguna

Pueblo of Nambe

Pueblo of Picuris

Pueblo of Pojoaque

Pueblo of San Felipe

Pueblo of San Ildefonso

Pueblo of San Juan

Pueblo of Sandia

Pueblo of Santa Ana

Pueblo of Santa Clara

Pueblo of Santo Domingo

Pueblo of Taos

Pueblo of Tesuque

Pueblo of Zia

Pueblo of Zuni

Ute Mountain Tribe of the Ute Mountain Reservation
34 

New Mexico34 

New Mexico Land Ownership

(77,823,000 total acres)

Non-public

60%

Federal

29%

State

11%

Laws and Regulations 

New Mexico classifies geothermal resources as Mineral if the fluid produced has a temperature greater 

than 250o F and as Water if the fluid produced has a temperature less than or equal to 250o F. The state 

claims ownership of geothermal resources when and where it holds the mineral rights. If the fluid 

produced is “mineral,” the resource is under the primary jurisdiction of the Oil Conservation Division of 

the New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department for drilling. The Office of the 

State Engineer of New Mexico regulates the extraction of heat from water under 250o F. Both agencies 

coordinates with the US EPA, Region 8, which has authority over wastewater discharge to surface waters 

in the state. All agencies, in addition to the State Environmental Department, have regulatory authority 

over geothermal discharge permits. The New Mexico State Land Office leases the lands of the state 

mineral estate (Battocletti 2005). 

 

Geothermal fluid under 250o F is considered “water,” and the resource is under the primary 

responsibility of the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer in regards to drilling and permitting. New 

Mexico does not have comprehensive environmental review statutes. 

 

The state’s RPS requires 20 percent renewable energy by 2020 for IOUs, 10 percent for rural co-ops and 

municipality utilities, with one Kilowatt (KW) of geothermal energy counting as two KW (Richter 2007). 

In addition to the state’s RPS, geothermal resource development qualifies for the US Department of the 

Interior Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy’s bond program (USDOE 2007). New Mexico has 

established a Geothermal State Working Group, with leadership from the New Mexico Energy, Minerals, 

and Natural Resources Department. 

 

New Mexico does not have GHG laws or pending legislation; however, the state has a GHG reduction 

target that outlines 2000 levels by 2012, 10 percent below 2000 levels by 2020, and 75 percent below 

2000 levels by 2050 (Camp 2007). There is no state funding for geothermal development. Most funding 

has come from the federal level from the US DOE. 

NRCM 2008
35 

35 

Resource Geography 

Oregon’s geothermal resources are located primarily in the central and eastern regions of the state, with 

some activity occurring in the Cascade Range and in the southeast basin and range areas. 

Utilization 

A geothermal power plant is under development by US Geothermal at Neal Hot Springs near Vale, in Eastern 

Oregon with a capacity of 100 MW. Researchers at Oregon Institute of Technology are experimenting with 

geothermal heat and power technologies. 

Technical Capabilities 

The Oregon Institute of Technology’s Klamath Falls campus houses 

the Geo-Heat Center, a national resource for the research and 

development of geothermal energy. The Geo-Heat Center aids in the 

transfer of technical information and provides project development 

support for geothermal direct-use applications. 

Oregon 

O regon Land O wnership

( 6 1,4 4 2 ,0 0 0 t o t a l a c r e s )

Federal

27%

State

5 %

N on -p u b lic

68%

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power generation 

for identified geothermal resources on all 

lands in Oregon during the next 30 years 

at 540 MW, with a total low-high range 

of 163 MW to 1,107 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 

NRCM 2008
36 

Oregon 36 

Laney 2003g. http://geothermal.id.doe.gov/maps/or.pdf 
37 

37 

Electrical Power Generation and Capacity 

There are four geothermal power plant projects in development in the state, with a total literature-estimated 

potential of 128.2-213.2 MW. Projected potential for the state is 380 MW in the short term and 1,250 MW in 

the long term (WGA 2006). The USGS report titled Assessment of Moderate- and High-Temperature Geothermal 

Resources of the United States estimates a mean probability of electrical power generation for identified 

geothermal resources on all lands in Oregon during the next 30 years at 540 MW, with a total low-high range 

of 163 MW to 1,107 MW (USGS 2008). 

 

Geothermal leases for the Crump Geyser site (in Warner Valley, south-central Oregon) have been secured 

by a private developer. Data for this site indicate temperatures in excess of 180o C, and the potential for 

electricity generation has been estimated at 85 MW. Research shows Newberry Volcano (near Bend in 

central Oregon) holds resources sufficient for a 30-MW plant that is in the initial planning stages (ODGMI 

2003). In July 2006, Davenport Power executed a 20-year power sales agreement with Pacific Gas & Electric 

(PG&E) involving the sale of 60-120 MW of geothermal-produced electricity from the proposed Newberry 

Site. The first 30-MW phase of this projected is scheduled to begin operation in 2009, with the second 30-

MW phase in 2010, and the remaining 60-MW phase in 2011. 

Tribal Lands 

Maps and data for geothermal resources on tribal lands in Oregon are available through the DOE tribal 

energy program at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/guide/geo_oregon.html (USDOE 2007h). Tribes 

for which information is available are listed on the next page. 

 

Oregon

Geothermal Electrical Generation 

WGA 2006 

213

380

1250

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

MW

Installed Capacity

(MW)

2015 Expected

Generation

Capacity

2025 Expected

Generation

Capacity
38 

Oregon 38 

Tribes with Potential Geothermal Resources in Oregon

Burns Paiute Tribe of the Burns Paiute Indian Colony 

Celilo Indian Village 

Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians 

Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community 

Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Reservation 

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes) 

Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation 

Coquille Tribe 

Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Indians 

Fort McDermitt Paiute and Shoshone Tribes of the Fort McDermitt Indian Reservation 

Grand Ronde Community 

Klamath Indian Tribe 

Siletz Reservation 

Umatilla Indian Reservation (Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes) 

Warm Springs Reservation 

Warm Springs Tribe of the Celilo Indian Village 

Laws and Regulations 

Oregon classifies geothermal resources as Mineral if the temperature of the bottom hole is greater that 

250° F (121° C) and as Water if the temperature of the bottom hole is less than 250° F (121° C). The state 

claims ownership of all geothermal resources located on state and private land (Battocletti 2005). The 

Oregon DEQ is the primary agency for the disposal of water in either surface or injection well applications. 

Geothermal resources classified as “water” are regulated by the state Water Resources Department, while 

resources classified as “mineral” are regulated by the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral 

Industries. The Department of State Lands issues exploration permits and drilling leases for resources on 

state-owned land. Oregon does not have comprehensive environmental review statutes. A developer must 

obtain permits directly from local land use boards (Battocletti 2005). 

 

The State Energy Facility Siting Council (EFSC) has jurisdiction over geothermal energy facilities of 38.95 

MW or greater (Battocletti 2005). The state has a RPS requiring large utilities to generate 25 percent of 

their power from renewable energy sources by 2025, with lesser requirements for small utilities (Richter 

2007). Oregon has established a Geothermal State Working Group, with leadership from the Oregon 

Department of Energy, which is shared by the state of Washington. 

 

Incentives for geothermal development include low-interest loans, business energy tax credits, and cash 

incentives through the Energy Trust of Oregon resources. The state passed GHG legislation in 2007 that 

requiring GHG levels be 10 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 and 75 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. 

Oregon has a GHG emission generation performance standard for electric generation and sales of 675 lbs 

CO2 per MWh (Camp 2007). 
39 

39 

Resource Geography 

The majority of the state’s renewable energy comes from geothermal sources (Nielsen 2002), which are 

abundant in the western and central parts of the state (UGS 2008). Geothermal resources range from low to 

high temperature (above 150o C). The majority of the systems suitable for power production are located 

within the Sevier thermal area, a region of southwest Utah covering a portion of the eastern Basin and Range 

Physiographic Province, and part of the Basin and Range-Colorado Plateau transition zone (Harja 2007, UGS 

2008).

Known high-temperature systems include the Roosevelt KGRA and the Cove Fort-Sulphuredale KGRA 

(USGS 2008). Literature from state offices suggests several known resource areas for potential development, 

including Abraham (Crater Springs) Hot Springs area, the Meadow-Hatton area, Joseph Hot Springs, and the 

Newcastle, Monroe-Red Hill, and Thermo Hot Springs areas. Other areas with development potential that 

have been previously investigated 

but lacked identified resources 

include the Drum MountainsWhirlwind Valley area (near the 

Millard-Juab County line) and the 

Beryl area in western Iron 

County. The same office 

suggests the need for further 

exploration of the west side of 

Black Rock Desert in Millard 

County, where bottom hole 

temperatures of 380° F (193° C) 

w e r e m e a s u r e d d u r i n g 

exploratory oil and gas well 

drilling in 1980 (Harja 2007), as 

well as the Escalante Desert 

(UGS 2008). 

Utilization 

The Utah Geological Survey and Energy and the Geophysical Institute of University of Utah are pursuing 

research to assess Utah’s geothermal potential. 

 

Technical Capabilities 

Utah universities, state agencies, and private firms contribute 

technical capabilities to the local and national geothermal 

communities. The Utah Geological Survey maintains a database of 

geothermal resource information to support development 

projects. 

Utah

Utah Land Ownership

(52,588,000 total acres)

State

7%

Federal

63%

Non-public

30%

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power generation 

for identified geothermal resources on all 

lands in Utah during the next 30 years at 

184 MW, with a total low-high range of 

82 MW to 321 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 

NRCM 2008
40 

Utah 40 

Mabey, D.R. and K.E. Budding, 1987 
41 

41 

Electrical Power Generation and Capacity 

Utah (along with California and Nevada) is one of the few states in the region to have developed 

geothermal power plants. The state has three geothermal power plants (one running, two 

decommissioned). Types of plant include binary, single flash , and dry steam. Current geothermal electrical 

output is 26 MW, with a literature-projected potential of 48-183 MW (including MW projections for two 

projects in development). Short-term potential is cited as 230 MW, with 620 MW long term (WGA 2006). 

The USGS report titled Assessment of Moderate- and High-Temperature Geothermal Resources of the United 

States estimates a mean probability of electrical power generation for identified geothermal resources on 

all lands in Utah during the next 30 years at 184 MW, with a total low-high range of 82 MW to 321 MW 

(USGS 2008). Raser Technologies completed a geothermal power plant near Thermo (southwest Utah) in 

late 2008 that is producing 12 MW. 

 

The state’s first geothermal power plant (the Blundell geothermal plant) came online at Roosevelt Hot 

Springs (in Beaver County) in 1984 and has remained online since. While it currently produces 26 MW 

gross power, expansion has been planned that will add approximately 33 MW contingent on the resource. 

On April 17, 2008 a rig test was conducted and the results were encouraging. Two other facilities were 

built at Cove Fort-Sulphurdale KGRA (in Beaver County) during the same time period, with a total 

capacity of 12 MW (UGWG 2005). While these plants were decommissioned in 2003, new owners (ENEL 

North America) have been successful in obtaining additional federal geothermal leases within the KGRA 

(Harja 2007). 

 

Utah

Geothermal Electrical Generation 

WGA 2006 

26

230

620

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

MW

Installed Capacity

(MW)

2015 Expected

Generation Capacity

2025 Expected

Generation Capacity
42 

42 

Tribal Lands

Maps and data for geothermal resources on tribal lands in Utah are available through the DOE tribal energy 

program at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/guide/geo_Utah.html (USDOE 2007i). Tribes for which 

information is available are listed below. 

Utah

Tribes with Potential Geothermal Resources in Utah

Confederated Tribes of the Goshute Reservation 

Goshute Reservation 

Navajo Nation: 

 Four Corners region lands 

 North central Arizona and central Utah lands 

Northern Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah and Ouray Reservation: 

 Eastern lands 

 Western lands 

Northwestern Band of Shosoni Nation 

Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah: 

 Lands in central Utah 

 Main reservation in southwestern Utah 

Skull Valley Band of Goshute Indians 

Ute Mountain Tribe of the Ute Mountain Reservation 

Laws and Regulations 

Utah classifies geothermal resources as Water. Ownership is derived from an interest in the land and 

not from an appropriated right to geothermal fluids. The right to a geothermal resource is based on 

ownership of the mineral rights or surface rights, which are usually obtained by direct ownership or 

leasing (Battocletti 2005). 

 

The state Department of Natural Resources Division of Water Rights has jurisdiction and authority 

over all geothermal resources and issues water rights and well construction permits. The Utah Division 

of Water Quality oversees fluid disposal plans and permits. State regulations do not apply on tribal land, 

which makes up 4.4 percent of the state (Battocletti 2005). On March 18, 2008, Governor Huntsman 

signed SB 202, which established a voluntary Renewable Portfolio goal of 20% by 2025. The bill requires 

utilities pursue renewable energy to the extent that it is cost effective. Utah has established a 

Geothermal State Working Group with leadership from the Utah Geological Survey. The state does not 

have state funding for geothermal research or projects; however, the US DOE funds specific research. 

Utah offers sales-tax exemption for the purchase of leasing of equipment used to generate energy for 

geothermal plants resources (USDOE 2007). In August 2007, Utah developed state goals to reduce 

GHG emissions 15 percent by 2020 as part of its union with the Western Climate Initiative (Camp 

2007). 
43 

43 

Resource Geography 

While the state has high volcanic activity, only the Cascade Range holds high potential for moderate- to hightemperature geothermal resources, particularly the Northern Cascade Mountains (Nielsen 2002). The most 

recent assessment of the state’s geothermal potential was completed in 1994 and identified 34 thermal springs 

(primarily in the Cascade Mountains) and 941 thermal wells (primarily in the Columbia Basin). 

 

Utilization 

Geothermal resources in Washington have been virtually undeveloped. There are no district heating systems 

or large buildings using the resource. There are no commercial developments such as aquaculture or 

greenhouses and no power plants. Resource use is currently limited to recreational and therapeutic 

applications (Geo-Heat 2007). A new Geothermal Roadmap for the State of Washington was completed in 

2009 by Washington State University Extension Energy Program and the Washington State Department of 

Natural Resources. 

 

Several exploration leases are pending but are associated with important scenic areas where environmental 

considerations could prohibit development. There are no near-term plans to develop geothermal resources in 

the Columbia Basin. Near-term developments of any kind are likely to focus, at least initially, on the expansion 

of direct-use applications, though literature cites one geothermal power plant project in development, with a 

potential capacity of 50-100 MW (Richter 2007). 

Technical Capabilities 

The geothermal experts at the Washington State University 

Extension Energy Program have world-class expertise in high- and 

low-temperature geothermal energy. The group has prepared a 

series of guides on developing geothermal energy and a series of case 

studies on geothermal heat pumps (WSUEEP 2004). 

 

Washington 

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power generation 

for identified geothermal resources on all 

lands in Washington during the next 30 

years at 23 MW, with a total low-high 

range of 7 MW to 47 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 

NRCM 2008

Washington Land Ownership

(42,613,000 to tal acres)

Federal

27%

Non-public

64%

State

9%
44 

Washington 44 

Laney 2003h. http://geothermal/id.doe.gov/maps.wa.pdf 
45 

45 

Electrical Power Generation and Capacity 

Potential projected geothermal electrical output is undefined, but literature estimates site a short-term 

projection of 50 MW, with long-term projections of 600 MW for sites at Mount Baker and Wind River in the 

Cascade Range (WGA 2006). The USGS report titled Assessment of Moderate- and High-Temperature 

Geothermal Resources of the United States estimates a mean probability of electrical power generation for 

identified geothermal resources on all lands in Washington during the next 30 years at 23 MW, with a total 

low-high range of 7 MW to 47 MW (USGS 2008). 

Washington

Washington classifies geothermal resources capable of generating electricity (no specific temperature is 

defined) as sui generis. All direct-use geothermal resources are considered to be groundwater and regulated as 

such. The state Department of Ecology is responsible for issuing water rights, well construction permits, and 

fluid disposal plans, including underground injections. Developers must also secure ownership or lease rights 

from the Washington Department of Natural Resources Division of Lands. Environmental review is required 

under Washington’s State Environmental Policy Act. The Washington Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council 

(EFSEC) determinations operate in lieu of state environmental reports and has the authority to issue permits 

under the Federal Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act (Battocletti 2005, http://www.energy.wsu.edu/

documents/renewables/washington.pdf); however, its jurisdiction covers only plants 250 MW and greater. 

Washington has an RPS that requires 3 percent renewable energy by 2012 and 15 percent by 2020, with less 

than 5 MW capacity counting as double (Richter 2007). Geothermal development incentives for the state 

include eligibility under the RES and utility-run incentives. Washington has a combined Geothermal Working 

Group with the state of Oregon. 

 

In April 2007 the state passed GHG legislation (SSB6001), which mandates that GHG levels be at 1990 levels 

by 2020, 25 percent below 1990 levels by 2035, and less than 50 percent of 1990 levels (or 70 percent below 

current projected annual emissions for 2050) by 2050. Washington also has a GHG emission generation 

performance standard for electric generation and sales of 1,100 lbs of CO2 per MWh (Camp 2007). 

 

A Washington Geothermal Energy Status and Roadmap was being finalized by Washington State University’s 

Extension Energy Program and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources at the time of this 

printing. 

Laws and Regulations 

Geothermal Electrical Generation 

WGA 2006 

50

127

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

MW

2015 Expected Generation Capacity 2025 Expected Generation Capacity
46 

46 

Tribal Lands 

Map and data for geothermal resources on tribal lands in Washington are available through the DOE tribal 

energy program at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/guide/geo_Washington.html (USDOE 2007j). 

Tribes for which information is available are listed in the table below. 

 

Washington

Tribes with Potential Geothermal Resources in Washington

Colville Reservation Chehalis Reservation

Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation

Hoh Indian Tribe of the Hoh Indian Reservation Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Indian Nation

Kalispel Indian Community Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe

Lummi Tribe of the Lummi Reservation Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal Community

Muckleshoot Indian Tribe Makah Indian Tribe of the Makah Indian Reservation

Nooksack Indian Tribe Nisqually Indian Tribe of the Nisqually Reservation

Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe Payallup Tribe of the Puyallup Reservation

Quileute Tribe of the Quileute Reservation Port Madison Reservation

Samish Indian Tribe Quinault Tribe of the Quinault Reservation

Shoalwater Bay Tribe of the Shoalwater Bay Indian Reservation Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe

Snoqualmie Tribe Skokomish Indian Tribe of the Skokomish Reservation

Squaxin Island Tribe of the Squaxin Island Reservation Spokane Tribe of the Spokane Reservation

Suquamish Indian Tribe of the Port Madison Reservation Stillaguamish Tribe

Tulalip Tribes of the Tulalip Reservation Swinomish Indians of the Swinomish Reservation

Yakama Indian Nation Upper Skagit Indian Tribe
47 

47 

Resource Geography 

The majority of Wyoming’s geothermal resources are concentrated in the state’s northwest corner, in and 

around Yellowstone National Park. Elsewhere, groundwater at elevated temperatures occurs beneath large 

areas, and research indicates that the state has a substantial geothermal resource base. High-temperature 

geothermal hotspots outside of environmentally sensitive areas (such as Yellowstone and the protected area 

of Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis) could be suitable for electricity generation. 

 

One KGRA near Jackson Hole has been identified and may be capable of yielding high-temperature water 

(aside from Yellowstone). The possibility of volcanic and magmatic activity exists along the northern end of 

Jackson Hole, which may indicate geothermal reservoirs. Outside of this area it is likely geothermal 

development will require very deep drilling analogous to oil and gas exploration (Lyons 2003). 

Utilization 

Geothermal development in the state has so far been limited to direct-use applications, specifically for 

recreational and therapeutic purposes. Concern and controversy surrounding the development of geothermal 

resources near Yellowstone National Park has precluded development of resources near Yellowstone. 

Wyoming’s sparse population is also a causal factor associated with limited geothermal development. Finally, 

most renewable energy efforts in the state have focused primarily on 

harnessing wind power (Fleischmann 2007). 

 

Technical Capabilities 

Wyoming’s coal resources are among the richest in the world, and the 

state possesses a wide variety of other energy sources. Renewable 

energy efforts are concentrated on harnessing wind energy, and little 

work has been done to harness Wyoming’s geothermal potential. In 

the 1980s, studies were done for the Western Area Power 

Administration to evaluate the geothermal potential of resources near 

Thermopolis for electricity generation. 

Wyoming 

NRCM 2008

The USGS (2008) estimates a mean 

probability of electrical power 

generation for identified geothermal 

resources on all lands in Wyoming 

during the next 30 years at 39 MW, 

with a total low-high range of 5 MW to 

100 MW. 

ESTIMATED CAPACITY 

Wyoming Land Ownership

(62,147,000 total acres)

Federal

49%

State

6%

Non-public

45%
48 

Wyoming 48 

Laney 2003i. http://geothermal.id.doe.gov/maps/wy.pdf 
49 

49 

Electrical Power Generation and Capacity 

The Western Governors’ Association report did not identify geothermal resource potential for electrical 

generation in Wyoming, however, input for state and industry acknowledge that new technologies and 

undiscovered resources may yield geothermal resources that are viable for electrical generation in the future. 

The USGS estimates in its report titled Assessment of Moderate- and High-Temperature Geothermal Resources of 

the United States a mean probability of electrical power generation for identified geothermal resources on all 

lands in Wyoming during the next 30 years at 39 MW, with a total low-high range of 5 MW to 100 MW 

(USGS 2008). 

There is interest in the potential for developing small geothermal electricity units in conjunction with oil and 

gas wells present in Wyoming. A small pilot geothermal plant utilizing warm fluids from an oil and gas well 

near Casper has been in test mode since mid-2008 by the Rocky Mountain Oilfield Testing Center. A 

demonstration project at the Teapot Dome oil field (operated by the US DOE) is under development and 

would install a binary unit for electrical generation and use on-site. This demonstration project, if successful, 

could lead to greater investment in Wyoming’s geothermal resources. 

Tribal Lands

A map and data for geothermal resources the Northern Arapaho tribe and Shoshone Tribe of the Wind river 

reservation in Wyoming is available through the USDOE tribal energy program at: http://

www1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/guide/geo_Wyoming.html (USDOE 2007k). 

 

Wyoming

Laws and Regulations 

Wyoming classifies geothermal resources as Water, and regulates them as a groundwater resource. 

Geothermal rights are a public resource and only available through appropriation. The State Engineer’s 

Office is responsible for issuing water rights and well construction permits and is the lead agency in 

overseeing geothermal production wells. The state DEQ is responsible for administering surface and 

groundwater disposal of wastewater, including geothermal fluids (Battocletti 2005, Heasler 1985). 

Wyoming does not have comprehensive environmental review statutes, nor does it have a RES or RPS 

(Richter 2007). The state has no GHG laws or pending legislation. Wyoming has established a state 

Geothermal Working Group. The only incentive for geothermal development is sales-tax exemption for 

equipment used to generate renewable energy resources. 
50 

Statutes, Policies, and Analyses 

The following discussion covers the statutes and policies that may be relevant to geothermal development on 

tribal lands. These include the National Environmental Policy Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, the 

American Indian Religious Freedom Act, Executive Order 13007 on Indian Sacred Sites, the DOE policy on 

American Indians, and Environmental Impact Assessment analysis (Dunley 2007). 

 

National Environmental Policy Act. The National Environmental Policy Act is an umbrella law 

that requires environmental reviews of federal actions, including environmental impact statements 

(EISs) and environmental assessments (EAs). This review process includes analysis of social impacts 

of the proposed actions when appropriate and may be utilized to review the social and 

environmental impacts of federal projects on tribal lands. 

National Historic Preservation Act. The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, amended in 

1992, establishes a federal policy of encouraging preservation of cultural resources for present and 

future generations. The federal lead agency for a proposed action is responsible for initiating the 

“Section 106” review process and for consulting with the State Historic Preservation Officer and 

the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. For example, in the case of several proposed 

Medicine Lake geothermal projects, the US Forest Service, as the Surface Managing Agency, 

initiated the Section 106 review process. The review included such issues as protection of Native 

American graves, archeological sites and resources, spiritual and vision quest sites, and 

paleontological resources (Dunley 2007). 

American Indian Religious Freedom Act. The American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978 

holds that federal agencies shall protect and preserve the religious freedom of American Indians. 

Although this issue was addressed during the Medicine Lake approval processes, the issue of 

spiritual values, in the public context, has still not been completely defined. More work will need to 

be done (Dunley 2007). 

Executive Order 13007 on Indian Sacred Sites. Executive Order 13007 of 1996 (61 Federal 

Register 26771) provides that federal agencies are required to accommodate access to and 

ceremonial use of sacred sites by Indian religious practitioners, and to avoid adverse effects to 

sacred sites and to maintain their confidentiality. The act requires that, for any proposed action, 

agencies ascertain the impacts of the proposed activity on places of religious significance, sacred 

sites, plant species for food and healing, air quality, visual quality, noise quality, wildlife and game 

habitat, spiritual significance, battlegrounds, vision quest, power places, and other tribal activities 

such as hunting, camping, and gathering (Dunley 2007). 

 

Tribal Lands 
51 

To determine the appropriate approach for a particular project, tribal sovereignty, tribal ordinances and 

codes, and tribal preferences must be weighed, along with other federal authorities. The following is offered 

for reference. 

Title V: Indian Energy 

Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self Determination Act of 2005 

This title, referred to as the Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self Determination Act of 2005, assists 

Indian Tribes in the development of Indian energy resources by increasing Tribes’ internal capacity to develop 

their own resources by providing grants, low-interest loans, loan guarantees and technical assistance, and 

streamlining the approval process for Tribal leases, agreements, and rights-of-way so that outside parties have 

more incentive to partner with Tribes in developing energy resources. Included in this title are: 

 Provisions creating an Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs within the Department of Energy to 

support the development of tribal energy resources. 

 Authorization of eligibility of funding for the Dine Power Authority, a Navajo Nation enterprise. 

 Directive to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to promote energy efficiency for Indian 

housing. 

Title V also provides a complete substitute for title 26 of the Energy Policy Act of 1992. 

Sections 2602 and 2603 instructs the Secretary of Interior to develop an Indian energy resource 

development program to provide grants and low-interest loans to tribes to develop and utilize their energy 

resources and to enhance the legal and administrative ability of tribes to manage their resources. 

Section 2602 also directs DOE to develop a program to support and implement research projects that 

provide tribes with opportunities to participate in carbon sequestration practices. Section 2602 creates a 

DOE loan guarantee program and directs the Energy Secretary to give priority to any project using new 

technology, such as coal gasification, carbon capture and sequestration or renewable energy-based electricity 

generation. Under this title the DOE Secretary shall provide guarantees for no more than $2 billion at any 

time. 

Section 2604 establishes a process by which an Indian tribe, upon demonstrating its technical and financial 

capacity and receiving approval of their Tribal Energy Resource Agreement, could negotiate and execute 

energy resource development leases, agreements and rights-of-way with third parties without first obtaining 

the approval of the Secretary of the Interior. Section 2604 also requires the Department of Interior to 

conduct a periodic review of tribal activities under the TERA and requires the tribes to monitor the activities 

of their business partners. 

Section 2606 authorizes WAPA to make power allocations to meet the firming and reserve needs of Indianowned energy projects and acquire power generated by Indian tribes for firming and reserve needs, so long as 

the rates and terms are competitive. 

Section 2607 authorizes a study of wind and hydropower potential along the Missouri River. 

 

Tribal Lands 
52 

(ACC 2008) Alaska State Chamber of Commerce. 2008. In Support of a Statewide Energy Policy for Alaska. 

Website: http://www.alaskachamber.com/artman/publish/prior08/EnergyPolicy.pdf. Accessed January 23, 2008.

 

(ADC 2008) Arizona Department of Commerce. Geothermal. Website: http://www.azcommerce.com/doclib/

ENERGY/Renewables_Subpage_Geothermal.pdf. Accessed January 22, 2008. 

(Battocletti 2005) Battocletti, L., 2005. An Introduction to Geothermal Permitting. pp. 12-21. 

 

(Camp 2007) Camp, Dresser & McKee, Inc., 2007. Regulatory Update: Greenhouse Gases (7/1/07). Website: 

http://www.cdm.com/knowledge_center.html. 

 

(CDC 2008) California Department of Conservation, Division of Oil, Gas, and Geothermal Resources. 

Geothermal Facts. Website: http://www.conservation.ca.gov/dog/geothermal/history_trivia/Pages/

history_trivia.aspx. Accessed January 22, 2008. 

 

(CEC 2008) California Energy Commission. Overview of Geothermal Energy in California. Website: http://

www.energy.ca.gov/geothermal/overview.html. Accessed January 22, 2008. 

 

(CGS 2007a) State of Colorado Geological Survey. 2007. Assessing Colorado’s Geothermal Potential to 

Generate Electricity. Website: http://geosurvey.state.co.us/pubs/powerpoint/geothermal_10_2007/

Sares_GthmlCO_InvForum10-2007Final.swf. Accessed January 22, 2008. 

 

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List of Preparers 

This document was prepared by: 

 Ty Brookhart, Publication Manager 

 ty.brookhart@empsi.com 

 

 David Batts, Geothermal Leasing PEIS Project Manager 

 david.batts@empsi.com 

 Jack Peterson, Geothermal Leasing PEIS National Project Manager 

 jack_g_peterson@blm.gov 

 

With support from: 

 John King 

 john.king@empsi.com 

 

 Andrew Gentile 

 andrew.gentile@empsi.com 

 Holly Prohaska 

 holly.prohaska@empsi.com 

 

 Jill-Marie Seymour 

 jill.seymour@empsi.com 

 Julia Howe 

 julia.howe@empsi.com