By William Harvey, P.E., Project Engineer at POWER Engineers
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Geothermal Technologies Office's (GTO) GeoVision Report ("GVR"), released earlier in 2019, has all sorts of tidbits that may be appetizing to international geothermalists. For the sake of interested renewable energy students or professionals that might balk at reading the entire 218 page, seemingly U.S.-focused document, here are some points for contemplation that have wider geographic applicability. Naturally it would be best to read the whole thing, so perhaps this can be an intro teaser to some of the excellent content.
Summary: The GVR provides a detailed Roadmap in Table 5-1 (see table left) describing concrete actions that would help the U.S maximize its geothermal potential. If you are a student looking for topics of study (a thesis perhaps), or young professional looking to join organizations where you can assist along these lines, a review of the GVR principles could help you match your skills to needs for your country. The GVR is a reminder how all of us are critical to the overall success of geothermal in any setting: scientists, engineers, policy makers and financiers.
Looks like the authors of the GVR (U.S. DOE GTO) will have a booth at the upcoming Geothermal Resources Council Annual Meeting; September 15-18 in Palm Springs, California. If you are like me you'll want to stop by, convey appreciation for their work, and find out what the GTO may be up to next.
