Geothermal energy brings mixed results to Klamath Falls

(DECEMBER 1, 2023) In the 1960s, the Oregon Institute of Technology wanted to build a new campus. They chose a place in Klamath Falls because the snow melted faster there. They used a special technology called geothermal energy to heat the buildings. 

Geothermal energy uses hot water in the ground. A heating system brings the water to the surface to heat buildings. It saves a lot of money ($1.4 million each year for the Oregon Institute of Technology alone). It is also a more reliable alternative than solar energy or wind energy.

But now there is a problem. The hot water is damaging the pipes and machines of the heating system. Fixing everything will cost $18 million.

The city uses geothermal energy to heat many public buildings, but only about 600 homes in Klamath Falls use it. Not only is it expensive to maintain, but it also depends on the home's location. Some areas of the city have easy access to hot water underground, but others do not.