WVE : How and where do geothermal and hydro energy production fit into West Virginia ’ s energy portfolio ?
Taylor : Geothermal energy is in its infancy in West Virginia . Most installations so far have been ground source heat pumps , which use the relatively constant temperature of the earth as a moderator for seasonal temperature , thus lowering energy use . This is because ground temperatures are warmer than the air in the winter and cooler than the air in the summer . Mine pool geothermal uses a similar approach , using the temperature of water in flooded mines . These technologies are great for increasing energy efficiency for homes , schools or moderately sized facilities .
There is a hot spot for geothermal under West Virginia — if we can identify a technical and economical way to produce that heat , then we could have the ability to provide low- or zero-carbon heat , which could be used to attract businesses , particularly those that have made climate and carbon commitments . That is , in my opinion , the real interest — this heat cannot be shipped out of the state and is likely too low in temperature for effective electricity generation . For a business to use this energy source , they would need to locate where the heat is — here in West Virginia .
The following experts are featured throughout our interview :
Kelly Bragg
Energy Development Specialist at the West Virginia Office of Energy
Charlie Burd
Executive Director of the Gas and Oil Association of WV , Inc .
Geothermal Depth in West Virginia
4.5 km = 15,000 ft 5.5 km
482 ° F
392 ° F
300 ° F
250 ° C
200 ° C
150 ° C
Chris Hamilton
President of the West Virginia Coal Association
212 ° F 100 ° C
122 ° F
6.5 km 7.5 km = 24,000 ft
50 ° C
Dr . Samuel Taylor
Assistant Director at the WVU Energy Institute
Source : Southern Methodist University , Geothermal Laboratory .
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