[PDF] The Legal And Institutional Problems Facing Geothermal Development In Oregon And Washington eBook

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File Size : 10,85 MB
Release : 1978
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The energy supply and demand picture of these two states is sketched. The perceived legal and institutional problems facing geothermal are shown against the backdrop of this broader, energy policy portrait. The following are discussed: the Bonneville Power Administration - regional power broker; other key institutional players; industrial users, public utilities, two state governments, and one regional commission; and a legal/institutional agenda for the Pacific Region team. (MHR).

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Page : 0 pages
File Size : 14,51 MB
Release : 1978
Category : Geothermal resources
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The major players and the major difficulties each presents to geothermal development in Alaska are sketched. The following are included: the Alaskan natives, the posture of the state of Alaska, and the federal lands.

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File Size : 27,99 MB
Release : 1985
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The legal and institutional framework within which geothermal energy must develop has its origin in the early 1970s. In 1970, the Federal Geothermal Steam Act was passed into law and in 1974 the Washington State Geothermal Act was passed. The legal and institutional framework thus established by the state and federal governments differed substantially in format, content, and direction. In many instances, the legal and institutional framework established left as many questions unanswered as answered, and in some cases, the framework has proven to be more of an obstacle to development than an aid. From an examination of how the state and federal governments have addressed the varying needs of geothermal development and how the courts have interpreted some of their decisions, it is clear that in order to ensure that the legal and institutional framework is adequate to serve the needs of geothermal development, it must address, at a minimum, the following topics: (1) providing developers with access and a priority right to carry out exploration and development activities; (2) characterization of the resource so as to minimize conflicts with other natural resources; (3) establishing ownership; and (4) giving careful consideration to such lease terms as rentals and royalties, lease renewals, and diligence requirements. In addition, the framework must address groundwater law and its implications for geothermal development and how geothermal development will be considered in terms of establishing utility law. At the local level, it is imperative that geothermal be given careful consideration when decisions on resource management, zoning, and regulation are made. Local governments also have the power to establish programs which can provide substantial incentives for geothermal development and, by so doing, ensure that geothermal energy contributes to economic stability and growth.