The University of Nevada, Reno will be involved in two upcoming geothermal events happening in Reno, the National Geothermal Summit beginning June 26 and the National Geothermal Academy starting July 8.

This week, Jim Faulds, director, state geologist and professor with the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology at the University, is one of four professionals who will lead a panel discussion at the National Geothermal Summit Thursday on enhanced geothermal systems and the Department of Energy's new technology developments. 

The Geothermal Energy Association will host its third annual National Geothermal Summit at the Grand Sierra Resort Wednesday, June 26 and Thursday, June 27. The Geothermal Energy Association is a trade association for 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.

Two weeks after the National Geothermal Summit completes, the University will hold the 2013 National Geothermal Academy from July 8 to Aug. 2 at their  Redfield Campus in south Reno.  

The National Geothermal Academy offers a month long intensive course in all aspects of geothermal energy development and utilization. Topics covered during the course include introduction to geothermal energy (July 8-12), reservoir engineering (July 15-19), power plant design and construction (July 22-26) and direct use applications (July 29-Aug. 2). 

Wendy Calvin, the academy director and professor with the Mackay School of Earth Sciences and Engineering, said the fourth annual academy includes professors and professionals from, among others, Stanford University, Cornell University, West Virginia University, Capuano Engineering Consultants, Western Cultural Resource Management, Inc. who will teach the courses. 

The University was chosen to run the academy by a cooperative of top geothermal schools because of its expertise in geothermal research and exploration and the abundance of geothermal activity in Nevada. 

The academy is intended for undergraduates, graduate students and professionals. Professionals who attend the academy receive a Certificate of Achievement upon completion. 

To learn more about the National Geothermal Academy, check out their informational flyer. 

The most current Natural Resources Defense Council search for energy smart cities named Reno, Nev. a 2010 Smarter City for Energy for the cities low per capita municipal energy consumption, distributed energy programs, a 17 percent reduction in energy use in the last five years and the provision of 20 percent of municipal energy by geothermal production.