The feaSiBiliTy of GeoThermal PoTenTial in The rio Grande rifT area of new mexico and TexaS

This paper will summarize the feasibility findings for the geothermal potential of the Rio Grande Rift in New Mexico and Texas by the Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT) Team at the Geo Heat Center, Klamath Falls, Oregon. The Rincon and Hatch area was selected as having the highest prospects for geothermal development, specifically for cascading geothermal power production and district heating. The following criteria were investigated: estimated reservoir temperature, reservoir volume, flow-rate, drilling feasibility, environmental effects, local infrastructure, social considerations, diversity and efficiency of end use, and maximum potential cost including estimated time of payback.