Nevada's Geothermal Resources and Their Potential for Direct Utilization

Abstract

The Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology has completed a statewide assessment of geothermal resources with special emphasis on direct utilization potential. The U.S. Department of Energy funded program involved editing and verification of existing data to the U.S. Geological Survey computer file GEOTHERM and publishing a 1:500,000 scale map of Nevada's geothermal resources, outlining areas of highest potential for direct use. During the course of the investigation, a numerical scheme was developed that integrates physical, chemical, and demographic data and yields a semi-quantative probability function. The value of the probability function may be used to determine resource development favorability for both process and space heating applications. In addition, the map also contains symbols for individual thermal springs and wells that incorporate temperature location, pH, flow rate, dominant chemical species, and total dissolved solids. This map is the most comprehensive geothermal map to date, and the technique developed can be used by other organizations who wish to quantify their state's geothermal resources potential.