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Pennsylvania House of Representatives
04/25/2024 02:36 AM
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20210&cosponId=36350
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House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted: October 18, 2021 12:09 PM
From: Representative Joe Webster
To: All House members
Subject: Geothermal Energy Projects in Communities Near Abandoned Mines
 
Since Pennsylvania has a rich history of mining and is now home to many abandoned mines, I believe we should investigate whether geothermal technology could be utilized as a meaningful resource in our former mining communities. Therefore, I will be introducing a resolution that would direct the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on the feasibility of using geothermal technology to create an alternative energy source in the Commonwealth through the utilization of abandoned mining locations and operations.
 
In the former mining village of Seaham, located along the North Sea in the United Kingdom, abandoned coal mines that once fueled the industrial revolution are now being retrofitted to utilize geothermal technology. Specifically, this village uses heat pumps to increase the temperature of floodwater from the mines to a point at which it may be piped into homes and other structures to provide a steady stream of cheap and reliable heat.
 
Since many communities currently sit on top of abandoned coal mines throughout the United Kingdom, there is the potential for a large number of homes and businesses to be provided with energy through geothermal technology, creating a positive impact both economically and environmentally for generations to come. In addition to producing energy, retrofitting abandoned coal mines could create an industry of technicians and engineers who would be needed to build and service geothermal infrastructure.
 
Pennsylvania may be able to adopt a similar approach and develop a new and valuable energy resource.
 
Please join me in sponsoring this important resolution aimed at helping Pennsylvania to establish a new energy industry while creating economic opportunities for the residents of our former mining communities.