| Abstract |
Geothermal energy has been used for many years in Oregon. However, because most of Oregon?s known geothermal resources were of relatively low water temperatures, most of the uses have involved direct use of hot water, such as space heating, water heating etc. Recent technological changes have helped produce electric power in Oregon from geothermal resources by developing more efficient power plant technologies and by improving the technologies used to discover higher temperature resources. This paper discusses these developments and the economic benefits created by geothermal energy. The paper also discusses state and federal policies which have encouraged this development, and makes recommendations for further federal actions. |