Geothermal energy collaborative process
Public comment period open until May 15, 2026
We are seeking public input on the draft legislative update. Submit your comment before May 15, 2026, or attend a virtual question and answer session for more information.
To support the state’s transition to clean energy, the 2024 Washington Legislature passed Senate Bill 6039 directing Ecology to lead a collaborative process to identify risks and opportunities associated with developing geothermal energy resources in Washington. The effort includes working closely with experts from the state departments of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, Commerce, Fish and Wildlife, Natural Resources, and the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council.
Credit: The Washington State Department of Natural Resources.
We will offer multiple opportunities for the public to participate in our collaborative process—focused on three specific areas identified by the Washington Geological Survey within the state Department of Natural Resources:
- Mount Baker area in northwest Washington
- Mount St. Helens area in southwest Washington
- Wind River valley area, south of Mount St. Helens
What is geothermal energy?
Geothermal energy is naturally occurring heat from the earth’s interior that can be harnessed for various purposes. Low temperature geothermal energy can provide heating and cooling for homes, schools, businesses and industrial uses. Higher temperature geothermal energy can generate electricity for the power grid. Although there is interest in developing Washington’s geothermal energy resources, there are currently no proposed projects under consideration.
To get an interactive look at geothermal energy, technology types and the three geographic focus areas in Washington, see the interactive Washington Geothermal Experience website maintained by the state Department of Natural Resources.
Collaborative process
Our collaborative process will help identify opportunities and risks associated with developing power plants in Washington using geothermal energy. We are providing opportunities for communities, Tribes and interested parties to learn about the state’s geothermal resources and share feedback about concerns and impacts. Our collaborative process will involve:
- Gathering input from local governments, Tribes, communities, industry and other interested parties
- Considering the potential impacts of developing geothermal energy resources
- Identifying key factors to consider when siting projects
This effort considers statewide issues while also focusing on three geothermal resources areas identified by the state Department of Natural Resources as having high geothermal potential: Mount Baker, Mount St. Helens, and the Wind River valley south of Mount St. Helens.
We will provide findings and recommendations from the collaborative process to the governor and Washington Legislature—first in an update due June 30, 2026, and final report due June 30, 2027.
Public engagement
We will be engaging the public throughout the process with in-person and virtual workshops. Join our email list for updates and participation opportunities. Materials from our past workshops and meetings can be found below.
Past engagement materials
Contact information
Clean Energy Coordination
cleanenergy@ecy.wa.gov
(360) 407-6600