Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is searching for a home for a new enhanced geothermal system (EGS) field lab as part of its Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE) program.  Led by the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) in coordination with the Center for Advanced Energy Studies, the Snake River Geothermal Consortium (SRGC) was selected for a Phase 1 award to study the feasibility of establishing the EGS lab at INL.  The team will work on Phase 1 of the project through 2015, with the opportunity to apply for Phase 2 in early 2016.  Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch along with Representative Mike Simpson said the award provides an opportunity for the Idaho to once again lead in geothermal research and development.

“A successful national energy policy is made up of many different energy sources, and the FORGE team’s work through 2015 will play a critical role in diversifying our national energy plan,” said Crapo.  “Congratulations to the Snake River Geothermal Consortium team for this recognition.  We are confident that the Department of Energy will recognize Idaho’s potential as we move through the EGS field laboratory siting process.”

“Already a national leader in research and development of U.S. renewable energy options, the INL’s expertise continues to be recognized and utilized across America and the globe,” said Risch. ”The INL and the Snake River Geothermal Consortium are very deserving of this distinction and with increased funding will have even greater opportunity to continue their great work.”

"Congratulations to INL and the Snake River Geothermal Consortium for being recognized by the Department of Energy to move forward in the competition to build a geothermal research laboratory,” said Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson. “This will be an opportunity for Idaho to once again provide leadership in geothermal energy research and development, and I look forward to supporting this team as the competition proceeds.” 

The SRGC is led by INL and is made up of team members from other national laboratories, the geothermal industry, state and federal agencies, and academic institutions.  For more information on FORGE, please visit http://energy.gov/eere/forge/forge-home

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