Geothermal Energy Development A discussion of geothermal energy, environmental impacts associated with geothermal energy development, and mitigation measures to avoid or reduce geothermal energy development impacts.

Follow the links below to learn about geothermal energy and environmental impacts of geothermal energy development, including impacts from site evaluation, construction, operation, and decommissioning of geothermal energy facilities. You'll also find information about mitigation measures that can be used to reduce environmental impacts.

• Resources and Technology
  Geothermal energy and its use, geothermal resources in the United States, utility-scale and direct use geothermal energy generation, and descriptions of geothermal energy systems
• Development Activities and Resource Requirements
  Project phases and activities of geothermal energy development that could result in environmental impacts
• Potential Impacts
  Issues of environmental concern for geothermal energy developments, including direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts
• Laws and Regulations
  Federal legal requirements applicable to specific geothermal energy development activities
• Mitigation Measures
  Mitigation measures to reduce or avoid environmental impacts.
• Government Programs and Tribal Incentives
  Links to government programs and tribal incentives for geothermal energy development
• Environmental Reports and Case Studies
  Access to environmental reports and case studies related to geothermal energy development
• General Information
  Links to geothermal energy development Web sites

Geothermal Energy and Electric Transmission

Geothermal energy projects that generate electricity require electric transmission systems to transport the electricity they generate to consumers. Environmental impacts from construction and operation of electric transmission systems are discussed separately in the Energy Transmission section, and must be considered in addition to the impacts presented here.