… Ormat Technologies, one of the biggest geothermal operators in the world, could begin exploratory drilling in Surprise Valley by the end of the year. The Reno-based company is preparing to develop up to 11 geothermal test wells on nine well pads across a nearly 40-acre span in the valley. … Some see it as a harmless, renewable energy that’s safe and heavily regulated by the state. A power plant could also kick-start the sluggish economy by bringing jobs and families back to the area. Others worry that if a plant comes online, it would disrupt the valley’s rural character. Some even fear it could be a detriment to the geothermal reservoir. … Ormat representatives fielded questions in March from residents who worried about threats to the groundwater from drilling and chemicals.