US Agency Highlights Geothermal Energy’s Growing Role in Nevada’s Great Basin
The Geothermal energy potential from the Great Basin region of Nevada and neighboring areas could generate enough electricity to meet approximately 10% of the present United States’ power needs, according to a statement released by the U.S. Geological Survey on Thursday.
A projection of 10% would represent a significant boost, as geothermal energy presently accounts for under 1% of the country’s electricity generation, according to an agency statement.
“The preliminary evaluation indicates a possible 135 gigawatts of baseline power capacity – assuming the present technology proves effective when implemented across Nevada and five neighboring states,” it stated.
Geothermal energy involves heat produced inside the Earth which can be utilized for various purposes such as warming spaces, air conditioning, and producing power.
As technology progresses in the upcoming years, the geothermal capacity within the Great Basin could meet a substantial part of the country’s electricity needs, the agency further noted.
After evaluating the Great Basin, the agency plans to assess the Williston Basin in North Dakota as the subsequent region.
(Reported by Noel John in Bengaluru; Edited by Matthew Lewis)