Rep. Webster Resolution To Study Use Of Abandoned Underground Mines As Geothermal Energy Source

On October 18, Rep. Joe Webster (D-Montgomery) announced plans to introduce a resolution directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on the feasibility of using abandoned underground mines as geothermal energy sources.

"Since Pennsylvania has a rich history of mining and is now home to many abandoned mines, I believe we should investigate whether geothermal technology could be utilized as a meaningful resource in our former mining communities," said Rep. Webster.  "Therefore, I will be introducing a resolution that would direct the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on the feasibility of using geothermal technology to create an alternative energy source in the Commonwealth through the utilization of abandoned mining locations and operations."

Background

There are already examples of buildings and projects using water from abandoned underground mines as a geothermal energy source, including Marywood University in Lackawanna County and the John Wesley A.M.E. Zion church in Pittsburgh. Read more here. 

Click Here for a great introduction to this opportunity by Michael C. Korb, P.E.

Resource:

-- Minepool Geothermal In Pennsylvania - Michael C. Korb, PE

NewsClip:

-- PennBizReport: House Resolution Would Address Geothermal Technology

Related Articles:

-- Leadership Opportunity: Pennsylvania Should Make Mine Water Geothermal A Key Part Of Its Clean Energy Transformation

-- Spotlight - Mine Water Powers Energy-Saving Geothermal System For Pittsburgh Church

[Posted: October 21, 2021]  PA Environment Digest