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Imperial County supports calls for extension of production tax credits in the U.S.

Imperial County supports calls for extension of production tax credits in the U.S. Hudson Ranch I geothermal power plant, January 2012, Salton Sea, California/ U.S. (source: EnergySource)
Alexander Richter 19 Mar 2013

Local authorities of Imperial County in California are supporting industry calls for an extension of production tax credits in the U.S. for geothermal projects beyond the year end 2013.

Local authorities in the Imperial Valley in California are calling upon policies to induce geothermal development in the county. While it specifically talks about this particularly region, it is as applicable as well for the whole of the U.S.

The comments now refer to overall renewable energy development in the county and the question on why only two geothermal power plants have been built over the last five years, despite Imperial County holding the largest geothermal resources in California.

The work on geothermal power plants is more labor- and capital-intensive than other renewable energy resources and could therefore bring more substantial economic benefits through taxes and employment opportunities, so the country deputy chief executive officer. He presented a resolution crafted by the county in collaboration with industry representatives.

The resolution aims at supporting calls for an extension of production tax credits in the United States beyond 2013.

With an extension, the county could possibly see another 80-90 MW geothermal power plant, providing $4 million of revenue for the region.

The region around the Salton Sea is expected to be able to produce more than 2,000 MW of geothermal power.

Source: Imperial Valley Press