As the world economy transitions from the carbon-heavy energy sources of the past to renewable energy sources in the future, USGS scientists are at the forefront of the science behind that transition.
From the critical mineral resources required to construct renewable energy infrastructure to the potential for geothermal and hydrogen energy, USGS science is foundational to the future of our Nation’s energy and mineral promise.
Quickly jump to how USGS is delivering climate science: Geothermal Energy Geologic Energy Storage Wind Turbine Database Some Like It Hot
Geothermal energy is a significant source of renewable electric power in the western United States. With advances in exploration and development of technologies, it could even be a potential source of electric power for the entire country.
In addition to generating electricity, low-temperature geothermal resources and thermal energy storage in geological reservoirs may offer potentially large sources of energy for heating and cooling infrastructure across the entire U.S. The results of national-scale assessments and supporting research studies provide State and Federal government policymakers with the information they need to evaluate the potential contribution of geothermal energy to the nation’s energy mix.
The USGS provides critical assessment maps for the full range of geothermal resource types, can improve technologies for characterizing resources, and can develop products to aid the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and other regulatory agencies in streamlining their permitting processes. Shortened permitting timelines are identified as a critical factor for effective geothermal development, and appropriate products generated by this project will aid partners in the decision-making process.
