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Bernie Karl extracts energy from the ground
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Former Colorado Sen. Timothy E. Wirth, center, hosts the
National Clean Energy Project, Monday, Feb. 23, 2009 in
Washington. From left are, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, House
Speaker Nancy Pelosi of Calif., former President Bill Clinton,
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nev, Wirth, John Podesta,
former Vice President Al Gore and T. Boone Pickens in
Washington. (AP Photo/Lawrence Jackson)
Chena Hot Springs is miles away from an energy grid. Expensive diesel fuel, energized Bernie Karl’s motivation to find a new source of electricity. He knew the Chena Hot Springs were a potential source of energy, but no model existed for him to follow to harness the power he saw emanating from the ground. Many experts believe that the new green economy will follow the lead of innovators like Karl.
Geothermal technologies had been based on water much hotter than the waters available at the Chena Hot Springs. His water never reached boiling, so a steam-driven turbine wouldn’t work. Karl was undeterred. He partnered with United Technologies Corporation (UTC) to demonstrate moderate temperature geothermal power plant technology. In a technology Karl describes as “moving hot water around” pressure develops to move turbines.
Chena Hot Springs project has applications to any source of waste heat. While many visitors come to the Springs to learn about geothermal applications,.the location is a working resort. Energy from the springs fuel a year-round Alaskan green house that provides produce for guests. Geothermal energy warms the buildings, keeps the ice museum cold in the summer, and is the only source for electricity. Guests enjoy indoor swimming, dog sledding, thermal spas, and energy tours.
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