USU to lead geothermal-test drilling in Idaho
TWIN FALLS, Idaho (AP) — Geologists plan to drill a pair of mile-deep holes in southern Idaho in a hunt for geothermal fields that could be tapped to produce energy.
The $4.6 million project being led by Utah State University is spread over two years and is being paid for with federal stimulus money.
John Shervais, a professor and head of Utah State's Department of Geology, said the work will provide valuable student opportunities, boost the economy and help advance geothermal technologies.
"We know it's going to be hot, but nobody's ever drilled that deep in these areas," Shervais said.
Also taking part in the project are Boise State University, the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Alberta and the International Continental Drilling Program based in Potsdam, Germany.
The holes will be drilled through volcanic plains in Lincoln County starting in the spring or early summer. The drilling should also give researchers a better understanding of the Snake River Plain geology.
One hole is planned over a thick portion of the plain, while a second is on the edge. Researchers are hoping to find out whether the two locations have similar levels of heat and ability to produce power.
The drilling sites are on public land.
Shervais said the results of the drilling could help private companies decide whether they want to develop geothermal energy in the region.
"There's plenty of public and private land near both sites that could be available for putting in a power plant, should we prove the resource is sufficient," Shervais said.
Also getting federal stimulus money for geothermal projects is the Blaine County School District. It will receive $4 million to retrofit schools in Hailey, Carey and Bellevue in central Idaho with geothermal systems.
Boise State is receiving $1.55 million to digitize and upload geologic data into a national system.
Recent comments
Once they know it's hot enough all geothermal Co. are going to come...
G | Nov. 8, 2009 at 4:05 p.m.
That's how almost every research project is paid for. If it isn't...
kyle | Nov. 8, 2009 at 12:59 a.m.
i like the part where it says "paid for with stimulus funds"
ray | Nov. 7, 2009 at 1:52 p.m.
- Accord reached in Copenhagen 4:02 p.m.
- Tech stocks stop market slide 3:48 p.m.
- Charges filed in stalking Ben and Jen 3:39 p.m.
- 'Monk' actor to star in 'Tenor' 3:36 p.m.
- Web registration for H1N1 vaccine 2:52 p.m.
- Disabilities group seeks donations 2:52 p.m.
- Video game watchdog shuts down 2:40 p.m.
- Mapleton man to head commission 2:15 p.m.
- GOP to stage health care read-a-thon 1:54 p.m.
- 700K packages of Vicks recalled 1:51 p.m.
- Susan Powell's family saddened
- Police: Murder/suicide premeditated
- 4 people found slain in W. Jordan
- Oregon State helped refine Bronco
- 'Avatar' a visual feast, but plot fails
- Football forecast as predicted
- Frances Monson recovering well
- Barkley grills D-Will about 'tension'
- Cleopatra relic lifted from sea
- Jazz must juggle full roster
- Here are Max Hall's Top 10 wins
176 - It's official; Heaps signs with BYU
172 - Susan Powell's family saddened
159 - Conan mocks Orrin Hatch, Mormons
155 - Letters: 'Liberal conceit'
143 - Susan Powell notebook seized
114 - Jazz stunned by Timberwolves
114 - Josh Powell meets with WVC police
109 - Letters: Explaining Palin
105 - Sources: Josh Powell hires attorney
100
For the latest news in the health care debate and how it affects you...
Mike, I cannot believe that you do not believe it is a right for all to...
'Then when someone questions if they received preferential treatment they are...
I'm with you. I'm all for the benefit of the doubt, but at some point we may...
Well for all those not believing the PAC 10 talk, look for yourself, here is...
They shut down because they are not needed anymore. There are great policies...
Yes, that's why so many schools, including Washington, were trying so...
Climate Change / Global Warming Ya Right ... I also believe in the Tooth...
Does Iran WANT trouble? They already produce much of the worlds oil... But...
The GOP wants to read this bill now?? What about when they were against...
It's annoying how liberals claim conservatives are greedy. Greedy for what,...


