University of Colorado Boulder professors Bri-Mathias Hodge and Shae Frydenlund are teaming up to examine the technological and social barriers that have held back geothermal development in Colorado. The state is the site of several promising geothermal regions including Mount Princeton Hot Springs, Waunita Hot Springs, and the San Luis Valley, but the state currently has no operating geothermal power plants. Energy companies, policymakers, and researchers such as Hodge and Frydenlund are working together to advance geothermal development.
Hodge, who works at the university’s department of electrical, computer, and energy engineering, has 2 decades of experience in renewable energy integration and power systems simulation. His experience along with Frydenlund’s work with Indigenous communities in Indonesia will combine tools, such as power systems modeling, spatial statistics, and GIS mapping along with community forums, surveys, and interviews to capture both the human and technical sides of geothermal development.
“We know there is an abundant amount of geothermal energy potential in our state. What we need is a better understanding of the social, economic, and regulatory factors that influence its development,” said Hodge.
Frydenlund, an assistant teaching professor in the university's Center for Asian Studies, will draw upon her experience of working with groups who oppose geothermal projects due to environmental justice concerns to advance the partnership’s goals. One of these goals is the creation of an interactive map of Colorado showing potential geothermal sites, layered with data on social and technological factors.
“Just because an area has strong potential doesn’t mean it’s a good place to develop geothermal energy,” Frydenlund said. “If it’s not culturally appropriate or desired by the community, resources can be wasted and projects can fail.”
Next steps for the project include
- Campus-wide town halls to connect with geothermal experts.
- Identifying industry and community partners across the state.
- Gathering preliminary data through stakeholder engagement.
The project is funded by a $500,000 grant from the Research & Innovation Office New Frontiers Grant.