How much additional energy could be developed under the leasing program proposed in the PEIS?
The RFD scenario in the Final PEIS estimates a potential for 5,540 megawatts (MW) of new electric generation capacity from resources in the project area (12 western states, including Alaska) by 2015 through 111 new geothermal power plants. It also estimates an additional 6,600 MW from another 133 plants by 2025. This translates into more than five times the current generation capacity of geothermal power plants on Federal lands by 2015 and more than 10 times the current capacity by 2025. The RFD scenario also recognizes great potential for direct uses, including as many as 270 communities being able to use geothermal energy to heat buildings, offsetting the need for conventional energy sources.
