Geothermal Power Organization

The Geothermal Power Organization (GPO) was formed in 1993 to serve as an advisory group of geothermal industry professionals working on energy conversion technologies and equipment. The formation of the GPO involved the consolidation of the functions of the former Energy Conversion Panel (ECP) and the Technical Advisory Group (TAG). Since its inception, the GPO has provided an effective forumfor discussions on the research needs for the geothermal industry and the promotion of geothermal energy for the production of electricity in a cost-effective fashion. The GPO has promoted an active exchange of ideas that provides industry response and guidance on the DOE Geothermal Division energy conversion program. As a result of the members' active involvement in the GPO and at the bi-annualmeetings, a fundamental change in the structure of the organization was instituted by DOE to assist the industry in pursuing cost-shared research and development with DOE. Efforts over the last year have centered upon investigating the various options for establishing a cost-sharing capability, and then implementing the most appropriate mechanism that met with agreement from the GPO members andthe DOE. Significant strides have been made in moving the process forward, and as a result, a Memorandum of Understanding and a new, more structured organizational charter have been developed and are currently under review. The signing of the MOU should take place in January, 1996.