Securing fluid resources for geothermal projects in a world of water scarcity

Abstract

Water in some form plays a critical role in geothermal projects, given current technology. This paper explores inconsistencies in treatment of water and geothermal resources at the federal and state levels, and discusses legal and practical issues the developer should consider, relating to use of water, geothermal resources, and alternative sources of water supply. The developer is urged to incorporate water resource planning into project planning beginning at the project feasibility stage, and to seek creative solutions, possibly in cooperation with key stakeholders in the project area, to secure needed fluid resources. © 2010 by the authors; licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.