Geothermal energy is finally getting its due, according to some. There’s a surge in recognition of the role of geothermal resources as a reliable source of electrical power, particularly for base load-renewable energy, said Curt Robinson, Geothermal Resources Council executive director, commenting on record attendance at an annual geothermal conference held early this month. “Several economic and environmental factors have influenced the geothermal resurgence, and, to a certain extent, the tipping point was the spike in crude oil prices in mid-2008,” he added. A major political change has occurred with the worldwide acknowledgment of global climate change and search by nations for non-carbon based power generation, according to Robinson. An increasing interest in energy efficiency and conservation both have helped to create a platform for geothermal resources. The elephant in the room for developers remains securing capital. But private monies and many governmental incentives worldwide have helped, as have national and state quotas for renewable resources. Major challenges for the industry include “finding proven technologies to keep up with new ideas, and access to properties for leasing,” Robinson said. By Susan Hodgson Edited By