Sustainability management and utilization assessments of geothermal projects in Alaska: An application of the Geothermal Sustainability Assessment Protocol and principles of sustainable utilization

• Main Author: Paula Michelle Pletnikoff 1993-
• Other Authors: Háskóli Íslands
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: 2022
• Subjects: Jarðfræði (námsgrein); Jarðhitanýting; Sjálfbærni; Iceland; Alaska
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1946/41393

Despite its vast potential, geothermal energy is underutilized as a source of renewable energy. The increased use of renewable energy sources is necessary for sustainable development and for meeting international climate goals. While geothermal energy is considered renewable, measures must be taken to ensure the resource’s sustainable production. This research applies the Geothermal Sustainability Assessment Protocol (GSAP) to three geothermal projects in Alaska: Chena Hot Springs, Makushin, and Pilgrim Hot Springs. The subsequent GSAP scores for the Alaskan geothermal projects revealed areas of improvement within the sustainable management of the projects. This research also evaluates the methodologies that were used to assess the production capacities of the geothermal projects against successfully demonstrated methods and principles that support the potential sustainable utilization of a geothermal resource. Results from the sustainable utilization assessment indicate that further testing and monitoring of the geothermal resources is needed to confidently ensure their sustainable utilization. The GSAP results for the Alaskan geothermal projects are compared to those of the geothermal power plants Hellisheiði and Theistareykir in Iceland. Overall, the GSAP scores for the power plants in Iceland are on average greater than those for the geothermal projects in Alaska. However, the disparities in scores may be attributed to limitations within the GSAP itself. Still, this research concludes that the GSAP serves as a valuable tool for assessing the sustainable management of geothermal projects in Alaska and should be considered for future geothermal development in the state.