Roundtable discussion with industry, policy leaders to focus on California's geothermal energy future

SACRAMENTO (August 1, 2012) – Mayor Kevin Johnson of Sacramento, whose city will play host to the GEA National Geothermal Summit on August 7-8, conveyed his appreciation and support for geothermal energy in a letter of welcome to Summit participants. The event, organized by the Geothermal Energy Association (GEA), brings together policy leaders, utilities and industry professionals to discuss geothermal's future in California and across the country, at a time when all renewable technology sectors are striving for sustained growth.

"Geothermal has played a pivotal role in California for over 50 years, providing clean power for Sacramento and the region," said Mayor Johnson in a welcome letter to Summit attendees. "As California continues to face the growing demand for energy, we need to meet these needs in a clean, sustainable way. I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering commitment."

Johnson's office will also have a presence at the event, as Julia Burrows, President & Executive Director of Greenwise Joint Venture and Advisor to the Mayor, will address participants at the GEA Honors Awards Dinner to be held on August 7 at the Hyatt Regency Sacramento. The dinner recognizes the best in geothermal over a number of categories, including Technological Advancement, Economic Development, Environmental Stewardship and additional honors for Special Recognition. For more information on attending the awards dinner, please contact Brigitte Hines at brigitte@geo-energy.org.

"GEA and all of our Summit participants are honored by Mayor Johnson's support of our event and the geothermal industry as a whole," said GEA Executive Director Karl Gawell. "Geothermal has one of the smallest footprints of any energy technology in terms of environmental impact and greenhouse gas emission, and it's also a significant source of job creation. As the state's capital, Sacramento guides California's green energy agenda, making the city a fitting host for the geothermal community."

The Summit program on August 8 will feature speakers including The Honorable Alex Padilla, California State Senate (D-Pacoima); The Honorable V. Manuel Pérez, California Assemblymember (D-Coachella); Commissioner Carla Peterman, California Energy Commission; and Dr. Jane C.S. Long, Co-Chair, California's Energy Future Committee, California Council on Science and Technology. Topics for the Summit include geothermal and renewable energy outlooks for California and neighboring states, utility experience with geothermal power, reducing the risk for geothermal drilling and exploration, streamlining projects and permits, and improving incentives for geothermal power. An exhibit area will feature government, sponsor and industry tabletops.

The Summit will also host an invitation-only media roundtable that will bring together energy and policy reporters with industry leaders for a dialogue on taking geothermal to the next level. Participants include Karl Gawell, Executive Director, GEA; JR Delarosa, Advisor to the Governor for Renewable Energy, Office of California Gov. Jerry Brown; John DiStasio, General Manager & CEO, SMUD; Stacey Crowley, Director, Nevada State Office of Energy; Jonathan Weisgall, Vice President for Legislative and Regulatory Affairs, MidAmerican Renewables; and Paul Thomsen, Public Policy Manager, Ormat Technologies, Inc.

For details on attendee registration, event agenda and floor plan visit http://www.geo-energy.org/nationalgeothermalsummit/main.aspx.

For information about exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Brigitte Hines at 202 454 5263 or brigitte@geo-energy.org.

About the Geothermal Energy Association:

The Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) is a trade association composed of U.S. companies who support the expanded use of geothermal energy and are developing geothermal resources worldwide for electrical power generation and direct-heat uses. GEA advocates for public policies that will promote the development and utilization of geothermal resources, provides a forum for the industry to discuss issues and problems, encourages research and development to improve geothermal technologies, presents industry views to governmental organizations, provides assistance for the export of geothermal goods and services, compiles statistical data about the geothermal industry, and conducts education and outreach projects. For more information, please visit http://www.geo-energy.org/. Check out GEA's YouTube Channel. Follow GEA on Twitter. Become a fan on Facebook.