Geothermal energy provides long-term answers to some of the most pressing issues in today’s economy. Warning signs of climate distress and volatile fuel costs are leading people to question where their power comes from and how rising energy costs will affect their communities and businesses. Unlike coal and natural gas, geothermal incurs no hidden costs such as land degradation, high air emissions, forced extinction and destruction of animals and plants, and health impacts to humans. Since geothermal energy production is domestic, it helps offset involvement in foreign energy affairs.
A geothermal project will only provide the highest benefits to developers and customers if the economics have been thought through in advance. Like any investment, geothermal projects require an understanding of the risks, costs, and benefits. See section 7 for factors affecting the cost of a geothermal project.