- Funding from US Dept of Energy announced at National Geothermal Conference in Reno, Nevada.
- Enel teaming with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and New England Research on project.
Andover (MA), October 10, 2008 Enel North America along with its partners at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and New England Research have been awarded funding totalling up to $1,019,769.00 from the United States Department of Energy under a grant opportunity for research, development and demonstration of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) for next generation geothermal energy technologies.
The aim of the research is to apply geophysical techniques for reservoir and fracture characterization in Enels North American projects -- mainly at the Fort Cove Sulphurdale Geothermal Field in Utahwith the goal of discovering more geothermal resources.
Geothermal is a reliable source for generation by providing baseload capacity. There are currently 2,500MW of installed geothermal capacity in the United States. Recent studies suggest the potential for an additional 30,000MW in 13 States including Utah, Nevada and California where Enel NA has a presence.
In announcing the grant, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Renewal Energy Steve Chalk said that his office was proud to expand our private public partnerships we consider this excellent proof of the growing opportunities and interest in geothermal technology research and project development.
According to Toni Volpe, President and CEO of Enel North America, we are proud to have been selected by the Department of Energy to conduct this important research that will increase knowledge and capability in this important aspect of sustainable energy.
Enel North America
Enel North America, Inc. is a leading owner and operator of renewable energy plants in North America, with operating plants and projects under development in more than 20 States of the USA and in three Canadian provinces. For further information: www.enelnorthamerica.com.
Enel
Enel is one of the main utilities worldwide: it produces, distributes and sells power and gas to more than 52 million customers in 22 countries of Europe, North and Latin America. With about 30,000 MW plants using renewable sources (hydro, geothermal, wind, photovoltaic and biomass) Enel is one of the World leaders in the sector. For further information: www.enel.com.
Contact in the US:
Hank Sennott
Director of Corporate Affairs
Enel North America
978-296-6841
hank.sennott@northamerica.enel.it