Abstract: Update of Geothermal Resources and Development in California and Northern Mexico

David N. Anderson

Since 1960, when the first power plant went on line at The Geysers, geothermal development in California has been increasing steadily. By 1975, more than 200 geothermal exploratory and development wells had been drilled in 10 different areas of the state. Federal lands now are being leased and exploratory activities are under way in more than 20 areas. Power-plant construction at The Geysers has been delayed, but permits for two to four additional plants should be issued in 1976.

Exploration and confirmation drilling in the Heber area of the Imperial Valley has led to the scheduling of a power plant in 1980. Many research projects for utilization of the high-saline reservoir at Niland should bear fruit. Development of geothermal resources at Sierra Prieto, Mexico, is under way and expansion of the power-generating facilities is now in progress.

Environment, legal, and institutional problems have slowed, and probably will continue to slow, development in all areas in California in the near future. However, a concerted effort is under way by the state and federal governments to resolve these problems. Utilization of low-temperature geothermal resources is just getting under way. The total geothermal potential of the state still is unknown, but exploratory drilling scheduled in the coming year should help to answer this question.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90976©1976 AAPG-SEPM-SEG Pacific Section Meeting, San Francisco, California