Geothermal/Hydro

Geothermal energy harnesses the heat of the earth to make power. Steaming water from hot springs can be used for heat, and the temperature of the ground can help heat and cool homes.

The Delta-Montrose Electric Association in western Colorado is a leader in rolling out one form of the technology that takes advantage of the relatively constant temperature of the earth. In its GeoExchange program, ground source heat pumps circulate water into the earth under a home. In winter, the warmth of the ground is transferred to a heating system. In summer, the cooler ground temperature is transferred to a cooling system. Either way, less heating or cooling is required simply by harnessing the underground heat. Studies have shown such systems are among the most cost-effective ways to reduce home heating and cooling costs.

Other renewable energy resources generating interest in the intermountain west also come straight from the earth. Small hydro-power projects that harness the movement of running streams are being investigated in some areas. Geothermal projects that tap hot underground springs in parts of the west already provide power to some intermountain communities.

Resources
Geothermal Energy Association
Delta Montrose Electric Association
Idaho National Laboratory geothermal site
Western Governors' Association Geothermal Task Force

Colorado Harvesting Energy Network » Rural Electric Cooperatives Renewable Energy Inventory Form 2007 Intermountain Harvesting Energy Summit » Governor's Energy Office » Home »		Contact Us \| Resources/Links
	Geothermal/Hydro Geothermal energy harnesses the heat of the earth to make power. Steaming water from hot springs can be used for heat, and the temperature of the ground can help heat and cool homes. The Delta-Montrose Electric Association in western Colorado is a leader in rolling out one form of the technology that takes advantage of the relatively constant temperature of the earth. In its GeoExchange program, ground source heat pumps circulate water into the earth under a home. In winter, the warmth of the ground is transferred to a heating system. In summer, the cooler ground temperature is transferred to a cooling system. Either way, less heating or cooling is required simply by harnessing the underground heat. Studies have shown such systems are among the most cost-effective ways to reduce home heating and cooling costs. Other renewable energy resources generating interest in the intermountain west also come straight from the earth. Small hydro-power projects that harness the movement of running streams are being investigated in some areas. Geothermal projects that tap hot underground springs in parts of the west already provide power to some intermountain communities. Resources Geothermal Energy Association Delta Montrose Electric Association Idaho National Laboratory geothermal site Western Governors' Association Geothermal Task Force