A Regional Blueprint for Geothermal Development in Central America

Abstract

Planned United States funding of resource assessment studies is expected to enhance the potential for increased geothermal energy production in Central America, a region believed to be rich in untapped geothermal resources. Development of those resources promised to lessen that region's draining reliance on energy imports. To realized that promise, the developing countries of Central America may very well considered foreign direct investment by geothermal explorers, producers, contractors, and equipment suppliers. The United States legal experience suggests that a "regional PURPA" along with flexible export/import policies respecting electricity from geothermal energy, could hasten development of the region's geothermal resources to help meet electricity demand.