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Title: Technical-assistance report on a geothermal heating utility for Lemmon, South Dakota

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/5281554· OSTI ID:5281554

The purpose of this effort was to review work already done toward establishing a geothermal heating utility in Lemmon, South Dakota; to redefine the goals for such a project; and to recommend how the project might proceeed to completion. The minimum size Phase I suggested would provide heat for up to 62 buildings in a 9-block area. Total cost is estimated at $1,800,000 to 1,950,000. The geothermal source is expected to be 100 to 400 gpm of 160/sup 0/F water pumped from 500 feet deep. Proposed energy savings and energy cost savings are presented. Analysis indicates that the major geothermal development effort in Lemmon should be directed toward the Madison aquifer. The minimum project dictates simple reinjection of the water after primary thermal extraction, although other uses are attractive and may be promoted if this resource is developed. A wide range of funding sources was investigated. Most promising avenues appear to be some form of local bond financing, and loans from the Farmer's Home Administration or the HUD Urban Development action grant program. The report suggests that a municipally-owned geothermal district heating utility be established, and a bond issue approved to pay for the initial well drilling, which is the major risk in the whole venture. A UDAG grant for 25% of the well cost may be obtainable. If the well proves successful, then the rest of the project can go forward.

Research Organization:
EG and G Idaho, Inc., Idaho Falls, ID (United States); Dunham Associates, Inc., Bismarck, ND (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC07-76ID01570
OSTI ID:
5281554
Report Number(s):
EGG-2144; ON: DE82011590
Resource Relation:
Other Information: Portions of this report are illegible
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English