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Geothermal Energy Profile
Along with wind, solar, and bio-mass, geothermal is considered an alternative or “green” energy source. From the core and mantle of the earth, heat is transferred nearer the surface through magma to surrounding rock. Groundwater heated by the rock forms hot water reservoirs under the earth. In some places the hot water forms hot springs and geysers when it escapes to the surface as water or steam. Geothermal resources are tapped for a variety of purposes from lower-temperature uses like heat pumps, bathing spas and direct heating to higher-temperature uses such as electrical power production. Geothermal is a base load energy; it operates 24 hours a day, every day. California produces more geothermal electrical power than any other place in the world. This power is used for our homes and businesses.
The Earth Systems group of companies employs Professional Geologists, Professional Geophysicists, Certified Engineering Geologists and Hydrogeologists who have extensive experience providing consultation and assistance for the assessment and development of geothermal resources.
Typically, our services include:
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research for property owners of prospective sites,
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primary exploration investigation,
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geologic field mapping,
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geophysical surveys,
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seismic hazards evaluations,
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oversight of subsurface drilling operations,
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regulatory liaison and permit processing,
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reporting of results and recommendations for development of power plants and direct usage.
Geothermal Energy Projects
For representative projects, please click the following links.
Our Summer 2008 newsletter, Consultants’ Corner, features an article about geothermal energy. |
Geothermal Energy is:
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Renewable |
Clean |
Reliable |
of Low Impact |
- Used and cooled water is injected back into the earth to replenish the reservoir.
- In some places solid by-products can be recovered and used, such as silica and boron.
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- Meets the most stringent Clean Air Standards.
- Used water is injected back into the earth with no surface disposal.
- Emits little carbon dioxide, very low sulfur dioxide, no nitrous oxide.
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- Power is base load, unlike wind and solar, and thus is available 24 hours per day, throughout the entire year.
- A geothermal power plant and well field has a life expectancy of 30 or more years
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- Requires minimal footprint, much less then wind or solar for the same power generation out put.
- Compatible with environmentally fragile areas.
- Can blend in with agricultural operations.
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Geothermal Energy Resource Links
Federal and State offices and private organizations involved with the development of geothermal energy sources include:
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