Austin City Council has moved closer to green energy with the approval of a resolution to investigate geothermal power for the city.
The Geothermal Resolution, sponsored by council member Mike Siegel, will require the city to gather a group of experts to research and evaluate potential geothermal energy projects in Austin. Led by the city of Austin’s Climate Action and Resilience Department, the initial planning and research are estimated to be completed by May 2027.
How it works
Geothermal energy is heat from deep in the earth that can be tapped by drilling underground to extract steam and hot water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. This steam can drive turbines to generate electricity, or the hot water can be utilized directly to heat buildings.
The skills and equipment needed for the oil, gas and pipelines industries are transferable to geothermal energy plants, said Jeremy Hendricks, Central Texas Building Trades Council local president.
Why it matters
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, geothermal energy has a minimal carbon footprint, emitting 99% less carbon dioxide than an oil plant of a similar size. This renewable energy resource is also widely abundant. While building a geothermal facility involves a substantial upfront infrastructure investment, it lowers operational expenses over time, said Kaiba White on behalf of Public Citizen's Texas office.
“I want to live in a city that invests more time and money into renewable energy sources and lessens our reliance on oil and gas,” Mike Weston, a union electrical worker, said.
Numerous individuals at the Austin City Council meeting voiced their approval for the resolution, highlighting its potential to generate local employment. Hendricks described this prospect as "one of the most exciting aspects."
Quote of note
“If we're serious about addressing climate change, strengthening our energy system, protecting Austinites and growing our economy, we need every tool available,” Hendricks said. “Geothermal can be another tool in our clean energy toolbox.”
