Fall Edition
A new guide to Montana’s geothermal resources and their development has been published by the Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) Renewable Energy Program. The guidebook, entitled “Geothermal Energy in Montana - A Consumer’s Guide”, provides the most current information on locations of Montana’s geothermal resources, permitting requirements for development, and an overview of existing geothermal energy uses in the state.
The 42-page full-color guide is authored by Montana writer, Jeff Birkby. The publication contains information on groundwater heat pumps, geothermal greenhouse operations, and geothermal district heating opportunities. A separate chapter focuses on the growing potential to use hot water from oil wells in eastern Montana to generate electricity.
“Montana has a long history of geothermal energy use, from the elegant spa resorts of the 1890s to space heating and greenhouse applications today,” said Kathi Montgomery, director of DEQ’s geothermal energy program. “It’s exciting to see the potential for more use of geothermal energy in Montana, including the possibility of renewable, emission-free electricity generated from our state’s hot water resources.”
Birkby is a Missoula-based writer and consultant who has assisted geothermal energy landowners and developers over the past 30 years. He has also written recreational guides on hot springs of the Northern Rockies and the Northwest.
Reader Comments(0)