Utah’s Untapped Geothermal Wealth: The Forgotten Giant Of Clean Energy

Hidden beneath Utah’s rugged terrain lies a powerful energy resource that’s quietly positioning the state as a national leader. Utah currently ranks third in the United States for geothermal energy production, trailing only California and Nevada. With three operational plants – Roosevelt Hot Springs, Thermo Hot Springs, and Cove Fort Station – the state generates 73 megawatts of geothermal power.

This clean energy source represents about 2.8% of national geothermal production. Despite this achievement, Utah has barely scratched the surface of its potential. The current capacity represents just 0.1% of the state’s estimated undeveloped geothermal resources.

The Western Governors Association projects Utah could develop 620 megawatts of geothermal energy over the next 20 years. This would supply roughly 12% of Utah’s electrical needs by 2026. The Governor’s Office of Energy is even more optimistic, suggesting Utah could add another 2,200 megawatts. Each megawatt powers between 750 and 1,000 homes.

Technical advances have transformed geothermal development. Modern drilling can reach miles deep into hot spots with temperatures of 200-500 degrees Fahrenheit. These improvements have sparked new interest in Utah’s resources.

Utah’s energy environment is changing rapidly. Coal powered 46% of Utah’s electricity in 2023, down from 75% in 2015. Natural gas provides 34%, with renewables making up the rest. Geothermal energy stands out by offering constant power generation, unlike intermittent solar and wind. With an availability factor of 95%, geothermal power remains unaffected by weather changes or time of day, providing exceptional reliability to the grid.

The environmental benefits are substantial. Geothermal plants produce zero emissions during operation and require minimal land compared to other renewable sources. Organizations like Utah FORGE are actively leading outreach efforts, with a recent Town Hall in Milford showcasing breakthroughs and future plans. This helps reduce dependency on fossil fuels while meeting growing power demands.

As one of only seven states with utility-scale geothermal generation, Utah is positioned to lead this sector for decades. The state’s geothermal contribution will likely grow as domestic energy needs increase and more people recognize the value of this constant, clean power source.