The New England region in the US could be the latest home to geothermal power as the University of Massachusetts Amherst geologists say that hot rocks beneath the surface could heighten the country’s clean energy sector.
“Harnessing local geo-thermal energy for such systems ‒ not from volcanoes or geysers but from garden-variety rocks found in certain special granites ‒ has the potential to cut electricity costs by 25 to 50%,” according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory at the American Department of Energy (DOE). “Many businesses are waiting with new technologies designed to take advantage of this potential new source,” it said.
A three year grant that totals about $450,000 has been given to extend the research which includes the first comprehensive survey of geothermal energy potential in the northeast.
Are you ready for 2010’s final edition of Alternative Energy Africa? Get your subscription NOW and don’t forget to ask about our plans for 2011. Email lgraves@AE-Africa.com for special rates prior to Jan. 1, 2011.