General Principles for Geothermal Energy Production



While there are many advantages to expanding the use of geothermal energy to generate heat electricity and replace gasoline as automotive fuel, we also recognize that even clean, renewable energy can have environmental impacts. Defenders of Wildlife supports the following principles regarding geothermal energy production.
Geothermal Energy Production Should:
 not negatively affect important surface geothermal features
 be done in a way that is compatible with other multiple use resource values
 ensure that emissions of water, air, and solid waste pollutants do not become a problem
 ensure that water and wastewater be safely disposed of
 consider the totality of the energy production process
 comply with local planning and zoning laws
 ensure that wildlife, aquatic ecosystem, and recreational needs are met and maintained, and the needs of many other water users, such as farmers, must be considered as well, particularly in arid areas.
 be greenhouse gas positive or neutral
 be sensitive to the presence of thermophilic bacteria and other organisms.