Consider Policy Options for Geothermal Electricity Generation
The fourth step in developing geothermal electricity generation policy involves different types of policy options that can help expand the deployment of geothermal electricity power generation by taking the risk of initial costs off the end-user. Options include utility mandates and standards; direct cash incentives; regulatory policies; tax incentives; financing; outreach and training; and lead-by-example policies.
It may be helpful to project or estimate the impacts of an array of policy choices to increase the likelihood that the chosen policy option will meet the objective of your policy.
| Policy Options | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
Used to enhance energy diversity and security, promote economic development, and mitigate climate change Learn more. |
Interconnection Standards Renewables Portfolio Standards |
|
|
Used to fund a portion of initial equipment and installation costs, which are often high, or to offset resource assessments, feasibility studies, or other pre-development costs. Learn more. |
Feed-in Tariffs Grants |
|
Used to address non-standard application processes or lack of clarity regarding permitting requirements. Learn more. |
Delineated Resource Ownership Expanded Transmission Infrastructure Single Agency Permitting Standardized Leasing Practices Standardized Permitting Processes |
|
Can be used to offset costs of developing a geothermal power project, or to assist in project economics by providing additional incentives based on power production rates. States often use tax incentives to provide an incremental motivation for development. Learn more. |
Property Tax Incentives Sales Tax Incentives Tax Credits |
|
Can be used to lower the cost of capital or reallocate investor and lender risk.Learn more. |
Direct Government Loans Loan Guarantees |
|
Helps provide key infrastructure elements necessary for geothermal development, including technology knowledge, workforce training, and technical assistance. Learn more. |
Outreach and Education Resource Assessment Technical Assistance Workforce Development |
|
Used to promote increased use of geothermal energy or directly invest in emerging technology demonstration or research. Learn more. |
Green Power Purchasing for Public Buildings Public-Private Partnerships and Cost Sharing Agreements |
Next, implement the policies you have chosen.
