USA, Washington:

Mt. Baker Could be Source of Geothermal Power (MyNorthwest.com)

In the Pacific Northwest, the land of cheap hydro-electric power, a hidden source of renewable energy might get a new look. The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is asking for public comment on the idea of allowing geothermal exploration and development on federal lands.

Geothermal power is providing electricity for millions of people in California and Nevada. Now, the Forest Service will consider offering leases in the area of Mount Baker in Washington state.

The Forest Service is driven by a desire to increase American energy self-sufficiency as outlined in the Energy Policy Act of 2005.

Public comment is allowed until December 1. Then, an environmental assessment will lead to a lease decision next spring, followed by a more site-specific analysis, if approved. Then, more public comment. But actual construction of a geothermal plant could take eight years, or more.

Read More.......