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Ormat says it will file exploratory permits for Surprise Valley geothermal wells
Summary
Representatives from Ormat Technologies told the Modoc County Board of Supervisors they plan to file applications for exploratory geothermal wells north of Cedarville and Lake City and described a 0‑discharge exploration approach and baseline studies to determine commercial viability.
Representatives of Ormat Technologies updated the Modoc County Board of Supervisors on the company’s exploration plans in the Surprise Valley area and said they will soon file applications for exploratory work.
"We really want to put that question to rest and see if we can determine whether there is a commercially viable geothermal resource there," Scott Nichols of Ormat said, explaining that company project managers have completed baseline studies and met with county planning staff and consultants. Nichols said the application will be limited to exploration and may propose three or four wells; during exploration the company plans a zero‑discharge approach with monitoring and reinjection.
Nichols said Ormat held a community update the afternoon of March 10 with the Chamber of Commerce and that the firm will provide future updates to the board as applications are filed and reviewed.
Why it matters: Geothermal exploration can lead to long‑term energy projects, local economic activity and regulatory reviews; exploration work can also raise water‑use and environmental questions in rural areas. Ormat’s stated 0‑discharge approach and baseline monitoring are measures intended to minimize surface impacts during the exploration phase.
What comes next: Ormat will prepare and submit formal exploration applications to county planning; the county planning process and environmental review (as required) will guide any subsequent approvals.
Sources: Public comment by Scott Nichols, Ormat Technologies, March 10, 2026 Modoc County Board of Supervisors meeting.
