The Utilization of Geothermal Resources at United States Air Force Bases

Abstract

The use of geothermal energy is one of the few energy sources which may be an answer to our present and future energy crisis. The Air Force installation on the continental United States as well as Alaska and Hawaii, were evaluated as to the possibility of utilizing geothermal energy to develop electricity, produce process steam, or heat and/or cool building. Twenty five bases have suspected geothermal resources available. Because of either need and available ecology seven installations were rated priority I, six were rated priority II and priority III and IV totaled ten. Geological and geophysical data indicated further investigation of the priority I installations , Saylor Creek Range, Idaho, Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota, Charleston AFB, South Carolina, Kirtland AFB, New Mexico, Vandenberg AFB, California, Luke AFB, Arizona and Williams AFB, Arizona would be accomplished as soon as possible. The use of geothermal energy will decrease the need for fossil fuels by the USAF and during times of short supply allow such fuels to be used for the Air Force's primary mission, military defense.