Teverra to conduct state-wide geothermal study in Colorado
Colorado (source: Erik Cooper / flickr, Creative Commons)
Carlo Cariaga
13 Feb 2024
Teverra has been awarded a contract to conduct a state-wide geothermal resource evaluation and market analysis for the State of Colorado.
Atlanta-based Teverra has been awarded a geothermal evaluation contract by the Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission (EMC) to conduct a comprehensive analysis of geothermal resources throughout the state. The state-wide geothermal resource characterization and market analysis will be done in collaboration with the Colorado Geological Survey (CGS).
The initiative aims to consolidate existing knowledge on geothermal resources in Colorado, assess applicable commercial geothermal energy technologies, and evaluate the potential for decarbonization through geothermal utilization.
Colorado, known for its rich history in mining, hydrocarbon production, and renewable energy development, including wind and solar power, boasts abundant hot springs indicative of geothermal potential. While previous studies have focused on individual sites, there has been a lack of comprehensive analysis regarding the economic viability of statewide geothermal development.
The study will encompass an updated resource assessment and development plan, examining opportunities for electricity production, direct use applications, and geothermal heat pump installations. Additionally, the potential repurposing of wells in prominent sedimentary basins will be explored.
Upon completion, the findings of this groundbreaking project will be publicly accessible through ECMC, facilitating informed decision-making and strategic planning for Colorado’s energy landscape. Teverra remains dedicated to driving sustainable energy innovation and looks forward to delivering impactful results through this initiative.
Teverra had previously been awarded a contract for the exploration, resource delineation, and production optimization for a potential geothermal site at the Army’s Fort Wainwright in Alaska, one of four facilities under the U.S. Department of Defense that is currently being considered for the deployment of geothermal technologies.
Joseph Batir, Geothermal Lead at Teverra, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Geothermal energy presents a crucial pathway for Colorado to sustain its legacy of energy leadership. We are thrilled to collaborate with CGS and ECMC to identify and quantify geothermal development opportunities across the state, contributing to Colorado’s energy future.”
The State of Colorado under Governor Polis has been very active in pursuing legislation to support geothermal development. During the 2022 legislative session, two bipartisan bills were signed on geothermal research, education, and implementation. In 2023, SB23-285 or the “Energy and Carbon Management Regulation in Colorado” was signed into law, creating the framework for new state regulatory approvals that enable expanded power generation from geothermal resources. More recently, the Colorado Energy Office announced a USD 5-million Geothermal Energy Grant Program to support the development of geothermal energy projects for electricity generation and space heating and cooling.
Source: TEVERRA
