Geothermal Energy Collaborative Process
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 and 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. During the next two years, we will offer opportunities for communities, Tribes and interested parties to learn about the state’s geothermal resources and provide 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
While our process will have statewide considerations, it is focused on the three geothermal resource areas the state Department of Natural Resources has identified: 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 interim report due June 30, 2026, and final report due June 30, 2027.
Public engagement
We will hold multiple in-person and virtual workshops to provide information and learn about concerns and impacts.
On Aug. 19, 2025, we will hold an informational session to provide more information about Washington’s geothermal energy resources and outline our collaborative process. We are also planning a series of virtual and in-person workshops to be held in fall 2025.
Register now to join the Aug. 19 virtual information session from 1 to 2 p.m.
Sign up here if you would like to receive emails about our collaborative process and public involvement opportunities.
Accessibility
For more information, please call 360-407-6600 and ask for an interpreter.
Para más información o para solicitar un intérprete, favor de comunicarse al 360-407-6600 o cleanenergy@ecy.wa.gov.
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Contact information
Clean Energy Coordination
cleanenergy@ecy.wa.gov
(360) 407-6600