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Geothermal workshops to focus on technologiesVolatile energy costs are driving utilities and consumers alike underground, creating lots of questions about geothermal heat pumps (GHP) and geothermal power generation, and how those resources compare to other resource options. To help answer those questions, Western, the Colorado Governor's Energy Office (GEO) and DOE's GeoPowering the West initiative are teaming up to present two geothermal technology workshops. Bringing geothermal into the mixThe workshops are patterned after three very successful events Western co-sponsored earlier this year in Bismarck, N.D.; Redwood Falls, Minn.; and Sioux Falls, S.D. Those events focused on geothermal heat pumps, while the new workshops will also cover geothermal power and other options. "Comparing the different types of geothermal technologies with other renewable resources and conventional power supplies is a small part of the program, but a critical one," said Guy Nelson, Utility Geothermal Working Group (UGWG) team lead. "UGWG's goal is to encourage utilities to add geothermal resources to their power portfolios, but we want to do it in the context of a broader discussion about energy resources." Sponsors of the event include American Public Power Association and National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association and Snohomish Public Utility District (SNOPUD) will host the workshops. "We want to attract utilities that are interested in examining both supply- and demand-side options to meet their future needs," said Joani Matranga, GEO Western Regional representative. The first workshop will take place June 10-11 at Tri-State G&T's office in Westminster, Colo., with the second scheduled for Aug. 11-12 at SNOPUD's offices in Everett, Wash. The two forward-thinking utilities are located in states that have voter-enacted renewable portfolio standards, and are actively developing their renewable resources to meet requirements. Both states also have significant geothermal potential, but no generation. "The need and the resources are there, but that hasn't translated into development so far," said Nelson. "The workshops will provide a forum where UGWG can get power providers' input on how to move geothermal power forward in their territories." Comprehensive agendaThe agenda will have something for both program providers and for resource planners, including the opportunity for each to learn more about other's challenges, said Nelson. Ideally, attendees will have some familiarity with GHP technology and geothermal power production. "But it's not required," he added. "A brief tutorial is part of the program." Through class presentations, case histories and demonstrations, attendees will learn about:
Speakers from Delta Montrose Energy Association and United Power Inc. will present case studies on successful GHP programs at their utilities. Representatives from Idaho Power and Utah Power have been invited to talk about their utilities' experiences with geothermal generation. In June 2006, Idaho Power issued a request for proposals for geothermal energy, which led to the construction of the state's first geothermal powerplant. In Utah, geothermal facilities have been generating power for more than 20 years. Utah Power, a PacificCorp company, has operated the 26-MW Blundell geothermal power station at the Roosevelt Hot Springs geothermal area since 1984. Geothermal providers to exhibitDuring breaks between sessions, attendees will be able to talk to vendors of geothermal technology products and services. A display area will feature drillers, installers, turbine suppliers, HVAC contractors, auditors and more. "The presentations will cover issues like economics, technology and program creation, and the exhibitors will be available to answer logistical and practical questions," explained Nelson. "And if any attendee feels inspired to start a GHP program on the spot, the technical resources to do it will be right there," he joked. Ron Horstman, of Western's Energy Services, will be among the exhibitors to introduce a new technical resource. Attendees can pick up a copy of the Geothermal Heat Pump fact sheet, also available online. "At the earlier workshops, it became clear that utilities needed a fact sheet that summarized GHP technology for residential consumers," Horstman explained. "Member services managers can offer it to a homeowner who is considering installing a GHP, or Energy Services can brand the fact sheet for a utility to use as part of a program. We hope to be doing more of the latter after the workshops," he added. Most of all, however, workshop sponsors hope to encourage utilities to take a closer look at a versatile renewable resource with the potential to play a large role in the nation's—and the West's—energy future. Registration fees are $90 for one day and $130 for two days. Reduced rates are available for members or customers of sponsoring organizations. The fee covers workshop materials, meals and refreshments. Continuing education credits are available. There are also a limited number of display tables available. Questions? Contact Guy Nelson at 541-994-4670. |
International Ground Source Heat Pump Association Calendar of events Previous issues
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ResourcesColorado Governor's Energy Office American Public Power Association National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association Snohomish Public Utility District |
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