California funds geothermal energy exploration
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Sonoma Clean Power (SCP), a public power provider for Sonoma and Mendocino counties in California, received $20 million from the state of California to explore geothermal energy resources.
Governor Gavin Newsom signed a budget agreement providing an additional $10 million, building on previous funding for SCP’s GeoZone initiative. SCP and a coalition of organizations advocated for this funding to reduce the financial risks associated with early geothermal exploration.
SCP plans to develop up to 600 megawatts of geothermal power in the region, aiming to provide a consistent, carbon-free energy source. The program will begin with three pilot projects in 2023, conducted by Cyrq Energy, Eavor Technologies Inc, and Chevron New Energies. California modeled the funding approach on a successful program in Utah, where public investment encouraged private investment and job creation.
The state expects the private sector to match the $20 million public investment, resulting in $40 million total for geothermal development. Geof Syphers, CEO of Sonoma Clean Power, stated that this funding will help reduce costs for utility customers by allowing the retirement of gas plants. SCP also benefited from legislative support for streamlining geothermal project permits through measures like AB 1359 and AB 531.
