Geothermal Energy in Utah: A Safe Technology With Limited Environmental Impacts

Authors

• Joseph Harding
• Kendall Becker, Utah State UniversityFollow
• Logan Mitchell, Utah Clean Energy
• Jennifer Bodine, Utah Clean Energy
• Scott Hotaling, Utah State UniversityFollow

Document Type

Factsheet

Publisher

Utah State University Extension

Publication Date

6-25-2026

First Page

1

Last Page

7

Abstract

Geothermal energy has the potential to transform Utah’s electricity landscape, driving a future with improved air quality, lower carbon emissions, and fewer environmental impacts. In this fact sheet, we provide an overview of geothermal energy and its potential environmental implications in Utah. We highlight that recent geothermal projects in Utah do not use fresh water and that new well designs are expected to reduce the consumption of salty, brackish water. If these efforts are successful, geothermal energy would have lower water consumption, reduced seismic risk, and a similarly low land-use footprint compared to fossil fuel sources of electricity.

Recommended Citation

Harding, J., Becker, K., Mitchell, L., Bodine, J., & Hotaling, S. (2026). Geothermal energy in Utah: A safe technology with limited environmental impacts [Fact sheet]. Utah State University Extension.