Skip to main content

$14.2 Million Announced Subsequently by US DOE For Enhanced Geothermal Pilot Projects

Unleashing the Power Beneath: The Second-Round EGS Pilot Demonstrations

By: Robert Buluma

image:wells of power at Kenyan Geothermal Field gushing steam

Geothermal energy is a game-changer in the quest for sustainable and reliable energy sources. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is pushing the boundaries of this potential through its Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO). With the second round of funding opportunities for Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) pilot demonstrations, authorized under President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the future of geothermal energy looks brighter than ever. This initiative aims to catapult EGS into the mainstream, contributing significantly to the goal of a carbon pollution-free electricity system by 2035.

 What Are Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS)?

Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) represent a cutting-edge approach to geothermal energy. Unlike traditional geothermal systems that rely on naturally occurring hydrothermal resources, EGS creates man-made geothermal reservoirs. By injecting fluid into hot rock formations, EGS enhances the permeability of these rocks, allowing heat to be extracted and converted into electricity or used for heating purposes.

The Second-Round Funding Opportunity

The second-round funding opportunity, identified as DE-FOA-0002826, comes with a substantial $14.2 million up for grabs. This initiative aims to support a variety of pilot projects that demonstrate EGS in different geologic settings. These projects will help advance EGS towards achieving DOE’s ambitious Enhanced Geothermal Shot™ and GeoVision analysis goals. The ultimate objective is to harness 90 gigawatts of domestic electricity-generating capacity by 2050, enough to power over 65 million American homes.

Key dates for this funding opportunity are:

- Letters of Intent Due: July 18, 2024

- Full Applications Due: September 25, 2024

- Selection Notifications: December 2024

- Award Negotiations: January 2025

Objectives and Benefits

The economic viability of EGS hinges on developing and improving technologies to understand the subsurface, including geological qualities and permeability. By supporting EGS pilot demonstrations, the DOE aims to:

Model Reliability and Performance: Prove the reliability and performance of EGS technologies, ultimately reducing risks associated with their development.

Learn-by-Doing: Utilize pilot projects to identify new challenges that might not be evident at smaller, lab-based scales.

Validate Design Approaches: Test hypotheses and validate design approaches tailored to specific geological conditions.

Standardize Best Practices: Establish best practices and general operational processes through collaboration.

Market Connection: Begin connecting with consumers and off-takers to understand their needs, helping define the market for geothermal energy.

Focus on the Eastern United States

The second-round funding opportunity is particularly focused on Topic Area 4, which seeks to demonstrate EGS at a well-characterized site in the eastern United States with potential for near-term electricity or thermal power production. This focus aims to diversify the geographic and geological applicability of EGS, paving the way for broader development and implementation.

Get Involved

If you're interested in this transformative opportunity, review the second-round FOA Quick Guide for eligibility details and application instructions. Explore the Teaming Partner List if you wish to form a partnership to apply

The second-round EGS pilot demonstrations represent a pivotal step towards unlocking the full potential of geothermal energy. By fostering innovation, collaboration, and practical implementation, these projects will not only drive technological advancements but also contribute significantly to the nation's clean energy goals. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this groundbreaking journey towards a sustainable energy future.


For more information and to stay updated, visit the Geothermal Technologies Office page on Energy.gov.

Source:Energy Gov

Connect With Us :Alphaxioms

Comments

Hot Topics

Fervo Energy Pushes Boundaries with 15,000-FT, 500°F Geothermal Well

Fervo Energy Pushes Boundaries with 15,000-FT, 500°F Geothermal Well — Ushering in a New Era for Enhanced Geothermal Systems June 10, 2025 – By Robert Buluma In a stunning feat of engineering and innovation, Fervo Energy has announced the successful drilling and logging of its Sugarloaf appraisal well, marking a monumental leap in the advancement of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS). Clocking in at an impressive 15,765 feet of true vertical depth and aiming for a bottomhole temperature of 520°F , this well not only sets new records but also firmly positions geothermal energy as a major player in the clean energy race. Breaking Records, Redefining Possibilities What makes this well particularly revolutionary is Fervo’s drastic 79% reduction in drilling time — completing the ultradeep well in just 16 days compared to the U.S. Department of Energy’s baseline expectations. Along the way, the company shattered several drilling records, including: Bit run length: 3,290 feet Average rate...

Meta and XGS Energy Partner on 150 MW Geothermal Power Project in New Mexico

Meta and XGS Energy Partner on 150 MW Geothermal Power Project in New Mexico A Game-Changer for AI, Clean Energy, and the Future By Robert Buluma – Alphaxioms Energy Blog In a bold move that signals the future of energy and technology convergence, XGS Energy and Meta Platforms, Inc. have announced a groundbreaking agreement to develop 150 megawatts (MW) of next-generation geothermal energy in New Mexico. This partnership not only promises to reshape the state's energy landscape but also underscores the growing demand for sustainable, round-the-clock power to fuel the age of artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven economies. Clean Power Without Water – XGS’s Unique Edge At the heart of this partnership lies XGS Energy’s proprietary solid-state geothermal technology. Unlike traditional geothermal systems that rely heavily on water and specific geological conditions, XGS’s innovation enables electricity production from hot, dry rock  with zero operating water use. This water-inde...

Geothermal Colonialism or Global Partnership?

The Ethics of Foreign Investment in African Geothermal Resources By:  Robert Buluma Beneath the surface of Africa lies a force powerful enough to revolutionize the continent's energy future: geothermal energy. With its promise of clean, sustainable, and reliable baseload power, geothermal is no longer just a hidden treasure it's a strategic resource. Yet, as the interest of foreign investors grows in the Rift Valley and beyond, so do the ethical questions. Are these investments empowering Africa or quietly replicating patterns of resource exploitation? This article delves deep into the ethical implications of foreign investment in Africa's geothermal sector. We explore case studies across the continent, highlight emerging concerns, and present a framework for ensuring that Africa benefits from its geothermal riches without surrendering control or sovereignty. The African Geothermal Boom: A Global Attraction Africa, particularly along the East African Rift System (EARS)...

Iceland Heats Up the Canaries: Reykjavík Geothermal to Ignite Tenerife’s First Geothermal Drilling This Autumn

In a bold and historic leap towards clean energy, Tenerife is gearing up for its first-ever geothermal drilling for energy production , thanks to a visionary collaboration led by Reykjavík Geothermal (RG) of Iceland and local energy giant DISA .  By:  Robert Buluma The project marks a seismic shift in how the Canary Islands approach renewable energy quite literally. As the autumn breeze begins to roll in over the volcanic landscapes of Tenerife, drilling rigs will roar to life , signaling the dawn of a geothermal revolution in the region. This isn’t just another renewable energy project  it’s the birth of an entirely new energy frontier , and Iceland is right at the helm. 🌍 A Northern Powerhouse in a Southern Paradise Renowned for harnessing its own geothermal resources with unmatched expertise, Iceland has long been the benchmark for clean, sustainable energy. Now, Reykjavík Geothermal is exporting that excellence to the Canary Islands through a trailblazing partner...

PPC Renewables Announces Geophysical Assessment Tender In Tetra, Lesvos Greece

Unveiling the Hidden Mysteries:  PPC Renewables Calls for Tender in Petra, Lesvos Island By: Robert Buluma In the heart of the Aegean Sea lies an island of unparalleled beauty and historical significance – Lesvos. But beneath its serene surface lies a mystery waiting to be unraveled, and  PPC Renewables is taking the lead in uncovering it. Picture this: Land Geophysical Surveys, delving deep into the secrets of Petra, Lesvos Island, Greece. It's not just any ordinary survey; it's a journey into the unknown, a quest for knowledge hidden beneath the earth's surface. Referring to the intriguing Call for Tenders (ref/title: PR110000001319) dated 12th April 2024,  PPC Renewables beckons the daring and the curious to join them in this adventure. The scope of the contract? Nothing short of extraordinary – 2D Seismic Reflection, Gravity & Magnetic Surveys with precise positioning, coupled with integrated Geological-Tectonic-Geophysical analysis of all available data. But w...

G24 and Eco Cloud To Put Up a1GW Geothermal Data Center In Kenya

Kenya and UAE Sign Deal to Develop First-Ever Geothermal Powered Data Centre By  Robert Buluma Published on: March 07, 2024 06:13 (GMT) In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable technology, Kenya and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have inked a historic agreement to construct the world's first data centre powered entirely by geothermal energy. This momentous event was witnessed by President William Ruto, marking a significant step forward for Kenya's digital infrastructure. The memorandum of understanding signed between Kenya's EcoCloud and UAE's G42 represents a pivotal moment in the convergence of technology and environmental conservation. Under this partnership, a colossal 1GW mega data centre will be erected, catapulting Kenya's digital economy to unprecedented heights. Amos Siwoi, CEO of EcoCloud, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "By harnessing geothermal energy, we are not only meeting the region's data needs but also setting a...

Fervo Energy’s Potential IPO: A Turning Point for Geothermal Energy

The geothermal energy sector is witnessing a significant transformation , and Fervo Energy is at the forefront of this change.  By: Robert Buluma The innovative geothermal startup, known for integrating oil and gas drilling techniques into geothermal energy production, is considering an initial public offering (IPO) as early as next year. This potential move comes at a time when energy demand from data centers is skyrocketing , driven by artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and the ever-expanding digital economy. The global push for clean, reliable, and scalable energy solutions is creating an unprecedented opportunity for geothermal energy to emerge as a mainstream renewable power source . With substantial financial backing, strategic partnerships, and groundbreaking technology , Fervo Energy is reshaping how geothermal energy is developed and deployed. This article explores Fervo’s journey, its technological innovations, the impact of its IPO on the clean energy market...

Bill Gates Visits Fervo Energy: Exploring the Future of Geothermal Power

  Robert Buluma Bill Gates recently visited Beaver County, Utah, to tour Fervo Energy’s Cape Station, which is poised to become the world’s largest enhanced geothermal power plant. In a LinkedIn post, Gates highlighted the project's innovative use of horizontal drilling techniques adapted from the oil and gas industry to access geothermal heat more efficiently. This approach allows for the utilization of geothermal resources in areas previously considered unsuitable for traditional geothermal methods . The Cape Station project is expected to deliver up to 400 MW of power, with initial production of 70 megawatts slated for 2026 and full capacity expected by 2028. The project has secured power purchase agreements to supply electricity to approximately 350,000 homes in Southern California . Gates emphasized that geothermal energy is a promising solution for delivering reliable, low-carbon power, especially as demand for affordable energy grows. He also noted that Fervo Energy's...

Alberta’s $20 Million Bet on Drilling Innovation: Why Eavor is a Key Contender in the Alberta Drilling Accelerator

Alberta’s $20 Million Bet on Drilling Innovation: Why Eavor is a Key Contender in the Alberta Drilling Accelerator Date: June 13, 2025 Author:  Robert Buluma Alphaxioms Energy Insights A Bold Step Forward in Drilling Technology Alberta is once again proving that it’s not just rich in natural resources it’s rich in ambition. On June 10, 2025, the Government of Alberta announced a game-changing $20 million investment into the newly launched Alberta Drilling Accelerator (ADA) program, an initiative designed to push the boundaries of drilling innovation. This funding, administered through Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA), targets emerging technologies that promise to reduce emissions while enabling responsible energy production. With its world-class expertise in oil and gas drilling, and increasing momentum in geothermal, lithium, and critical minerals, Alberta is positioning itself to be the global nerve center of next-generation drilling. And among the hopefuls vying to leverage th...

Neptune Energy To Extract Lithium From Geothermal Brine In Altmark Germany

Revolutionizing Energy:  Neptune Energy Bold Move Towards Sustainability in the Altmark By: Robert Buluma In a groundbreaking development poised to reshape the energy landscape,  Neptune Energy is spearheading a transformative initiative in the Altmark region of Germany. With licenses secured for the extraction of lithium and geothermal energy,  Neptune Energy is set to pioneer innovative solutions in the realm of green energy production. The journey towards sustainability begins with  Neptune Energy commitment to harnessing the potential of lithium and geothermal energy resources. With exclusive mining permits granted by the State Office for Geology and Mining in Saxony-Anhalt,  Neptune Energy is poised to revolutionize energy production in the Altmark. Dr. Andreas Scheck, Managing Director of Neptune Energy, envisions the Altmark as a beacon of future-oriented technology, where traditional energy practices seamlessly transition into eco-friendly alternativ...