Volcano power and geothermal energy are becoming increasingly attractive potential sources of renewable energy. These clean, natural power sources could even supply up to 25% of the electricity used in the United States in just a few short decades according to energy experts.

Currently Alaskan state officials are conducting a survey of potential volcanic and geothermal hotspots within the state. The spots will then be leased to energy companies to further explore the sites for their potential. The firt such lease-sale is set for this August on Mount Spurr, a volcano that erupted in 1992.

Beyond Alaska, virtually all Western states as well as those on the Gulf of Mexico are conducting geothermal research on their lands. The Feds are getting in on the act too, with the Bureau of Land Management having just completed a survey of 11 Western states & Alaska for “lands with high potential for renewable geothermal resources”. The study found 200 million acres of public lands with geothermal potential.

You can takepart in learning more about geothermal/volcanic sources of energy by checking out the Geothermal Energy Association, an industry group pushing for greater adoption of this clean, renewable resource.

LINKS:

Daily Telegraph: Harness volcano power, energy experts say

NPR: Businesses see green in Iceland’s volcano power

ground report: Iceland as a model for renewable energy