Utility Estimates of Geothermal Electricity Generating Capacity

Abstract

Estimates of geothermal electric power generation capacity by the electric utility industry, obtained from both formal forecast through the National Electric Reliability Council (NERC) and an informal survey conducted by EPRI in 1978, indicate a significant growth in reliance on geothermal resources compared to the estimates obtained a year ago. Data from the 10 year coordinated plan summaries of Western Systems Coordinating Council for 1976 and 1977 show a 15%/a growth rate in geothermal power capacity over the 10 year period, and in relation to the forecasted decline in total additions, it represents an increase of 20% in reliance on geothermal resources. The informal survey of more than 15 utilities showed a probable growth of geothermal power capacity to 7,475 MWe by 1995, at a mean growth rate of 16%/a. In comparison to the survey of 1977, the increase in announced capacity if more than 100%.