Other

Geothermal
Geothermal energy originates in the Earth's interior, where temperatures reach over 500 degrees Celsius at depths of 15 to 30 kilometers. In areas where the heat is closer to the surface, the ground water heats up to create hydrothermal reservoirs with temperatures ranging from 30 to 375 degrees Celsius. These reservoirs produce hot water or steam that can be used directly, for applications such as space heating, or indirectly, to produce commercial power.

NYSERDA and the U.S. Department of Energy commissioned a study several years ago to assess the potential for geothermal electric power generation in New York State. The study, completed in mid 1996 by Dyncorp Information and Engineering Technology and the State University of New York at Buffalo, found that though there is potential for geothermal electric power in upstate New York, its high cost continues to inhibit development. NYSERDA currently maintains an opportunistic approach to the geothermal program, with funding available to innovative ideas and technologies.

Hydropower
Hydropower is an old and established source of electricity in New York State dating back to the 1880's. In New York, hydropower accounts for 19% of electrical generation (1998). Considering only indigenous primary production, however, hydropower accounts for 67% of the total. A significant part of this generation can be attributed to the large NYPA plants at Niagara Falls and on the St. Lawrence.

Nearly every major river system in New York and the nation is affected by hydropower dams with some environmental consequence. However, most environmental groups will accept that some hydropower is beneficial though dam removal on certain river systems remains a goal.

Though very little new hydropower has come on line in the state, the potential for more capacity exists at developed hydropower sites, developed dams with no generation, and at undeveloped sites. The latter category can be ignored; no new dams are likely to be built. However, an updated capacity estimate (1998) by DOE estimates that 162 MW can be added to existing hydropower plant sites and 495 MW can be added to developed sites with no generation. This can be accomplished with retrofitting existing facilities or adding turbines.

Though no current funding program exists for hydropower, NYSERDA remains interested in ways to improve hydropower production and minimize environmental impacts.

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© 2004 New York State Energy Research and Development Authority