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Showing posts from March 17, 2024

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Mijnwater Starts Terhoevenderweg Drilling for New 634-Meter Heat Source in Heerlen

Mijnwater starts drilling for new heat source on Terhoevenderweg in Heerlen New source expands Parkstad’s district heating and cooling network Mijnwater has started drilling work for a new heat source at Terhoevenderweg in Heerlen, marking another important step in the expansion of its sustainable heating and cooling network in Parkstad. After a period of preparation, work began this week and is expected to continue for three to four weeks. Because the operation must be completed safely and efficiently, the drilling is taking place 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The project is part of Mijnwater’s broader effort to strengthen a low-carbon energy system for the region. The new source will tap warm groundwater in a former mine passage deep underground and feed that energy into the company’s network. For Heerlen and the surrounding area, this means further development of a district energy system that draws value from the region’s mining past while supporting a more sustainable energy ...

Mercury Collaborates With Ormat To Expand Nga Tamariki Geothermal Station With Additional 45 MW

Unveiling a New Era: Ngā Tamariki Geothermal Station Expansion Underway! By: Robert Buluma In a symbolic gesture marked by the clinking of shovels against the earth, a new chapter in renewable energy dawned as the groundbreaking ceremony for the fifth generating unit at the Ngā Tamariki geothermal commenced. The air was filled with anticipation and reverence as representatives from Tauhara North 2 Trust , Tahu Ngati Whaoa , and their esteemed delivery partner, Ormat gathered to bless and celebrate this momentous occasion. At the heart of this expansion lies a profound commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation. Collaborating closely with their valued partners,  Tauhara North 2 Trust and the wider mana whenua Ngāti Tahu Ngati Whaoa ,They had meticulously crafted a plan that not only ensures the long-term health of the land but also honors its sacred significance as a taonga. The addition of this new unit marks a pivotal milestone in  Mercury ongoing mission to cha...

Exxon Hints On Tapping Geothermal Energy AT An S&P Event

Unlocking Earth's Secret Power: Exploring the Potential of Geothermal Energy By: Robert Buluma In a world where the energy transition is gaining momentum, the quest for sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels has never been more crucial. Among the myriad of emerging solutions, one often overlooked yet immensely promising avenue is geothermal energy. This underdog in the renewables arena holds the key to unlocking Earth's secret power, and even industry giants like  Exxon are beginning to take notice. In an exclusive interview with Axios, Exxon CEO Darren Woods revealed the company's keen interest in the progression of geothermal technology. While  Exxon isn't currently actively pursuing geothermal ventures, Woods emphasized the potential alignment and synergies between geothermal energy and the company's existing expertise. With a cautious yet watchful eye,  Exxon recognizes the possibility of integrating geothermal energy into its portfolio, provided the right ...

Google, Microsoft and Nucor To Fast Track Advanced Geothermal,

Revolutionizing Energy: A Collaborative Journey Towards Advanced Clean Electricity By: Robert Buluma In a groundbreaking alliance, tech titans  Google and Microsoft , along with steel giant Nucor Corporation , have embarked on a mission to reshape the landscape of electricity generation. The trio is not merely envisioning a cleaner future but actively spearheading initiatives to accelerate the development and adoption of advanced clean electricity technologies. At the core of this ambitious endeavor lies a profound understanding: the transition to a sustainable energy future demands more than just conventional renewables like wind and solar. To effectively combat climate change and meet the soaring global energy demand, a diverse portfolio of cutting-edge solutions is imperative. This is where advanced clean electricity technologies come into play. The International Energy Agency (IEA) underscores the critical role of these technologies in decarbonizing grids and ensuring energy se...

Eavor Partners With Neu-Ulm To Explore Deep Geothermal

Unlocking the Depths: Neu-Ulm's Bold Leap into Deep Geothermal Energy By: Robert Buluma In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, Neu-Ulm emerges as a pioneer, spearheading a groundbreaking project in partnership with  Eavor GMBH to explore the potential of deep geothermal energy. This ambitious endeavor marks a decisive step towards decarbonizing heat demand in Neu-Ulm and Senden, setting a shining example for cities worldwide. At the heart of this endeavor lies a commitment to innovation and sustainability. As Mayor Katrin Albsteiger asserts, "The effort to examine the safe use of deep geothermal energy in our region marks a significant step towards a sustainable and climate-friendly energy future for Neu-Ulm." With a target to achieve climate neutrality by 2040, Neu-Ulm recognizes the urgency of addressing the heating sector now, paving the way for a greener tomorrow. The project, which commenced its exploration phase in January 2024, is characterized by meticulo...

Microsoft Campus To Heat and Cool Using Geothermal

Microsoft  Redmond Campus Embraces Sustainable Future with Geothermal Innovation By: Robert Buluma In an era where climate change looms large, every step towards sustainability is a leap forward for humanity. Enter Microsoft's Redmond campus, where innovation meets environmental responsibility in a groundbreaking project set to redefine corporate sustainability standards. The crown jewel of this endeavor? The Geothermal Energy Center (TEC), a marvel of engineering designed to heat and cool millions of square feet of office space using geothermal energy—a virtually carbon-neutral solution that promises to revolutionize the way we think about corporate campuses. Picture this: a 6.5-acre geothermal well field, consisting of nearly 900 boreholes drilled up to 550 feet deep, quietly humming beneath the surface, delivering 50% of the campus's heating and cooling needs without emitting a single ounce of carbon. It's not just sustainable; it's a game-changer. But here's the...

Ormat Awarded Rongkong Geothermal Exploration In Indonesia

Unveiling Indonesia's Geothermal Potential: A Thrilling Expedition into Sustainable Energy By: Robert Buluma Indonesia, a land of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures, holds a treasure trove beneath its surface - geothermal energy.  As the world races towards sustainable solutions, Indonesia stands at the forefront, ready to unlock the power of its volcanic landscapes to fuel a cleaner, greener future. Picture this: steam rising majestically from the earth's crust, hinting at the immense energy waiting to be harnessed. Welcome to the world of geothermal energy, where nature's fury becomes mankind's salvation. In a recent announcement that sent shockwaves through the energy sector,  PT Ormat Geothermal Indonesia has been chosen as the trailblazer for the Preliminary Survey and Exploration Assignment (PSPE) in the Rongkong area of Luwu Utara District, nestled in the scenic beauty of South Sulawesi Province. But what does this mean for Indonesia, and indeed, the w...

Toshiba and SEPCO to Uprate Kengens Olkaria 1 To 65 MW From 45 MW

KenGen Unveils Ambitious Plan to Revamp Oldest Geothermal Power Plant, Paving the Way for a Greener Future By: Robert Buluma In a groundbreaking move towards bolstering Kenya's renewable energy sector, the Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) has announced a landmark initiative to upgrade the country's oldest geothermal power plant. Set against the backdrop of a burgeoning global push towards sustainable energy solutions, this endeavor marks a pivotal moment in Kenya's journey towards a greener, more environmentally conscious future. The Olkaria I geothermal power plant, a venerable institution in Kenya's energy landscape, is poised to undergo a transformative overhaul aimed at enhancing its operational efficiency and significantly boosting its electricity generation capacity. KenGen's ambitious vision entails elevating the plant's output from its current 45MW to a robust 63MW, representing a remarkable stride towards meeting the nation's escala...

Earth's Energy and Baker Hughes To Develop Australia Geothermal Using Closed Loop Geothermal Technology

In the heart of Australia's vast landscapes lies a promising partnership that could reshape the country's energy landscape.  By: Robert Buluma Earths Energy, a pioneering geothermal exploration company, has teamed up with Baker Hughes, a global leader in energy technologies, to unlock the potential of Australia's geothermal resources. At the forefront of this collaboration is the exploration of Advanced Geothermal   technology, a cutting-edge approach that holds the key to tapping into Australia's abundant geothermal energy. Through a  Memorandum of Understanding  both companies are embarking on a journey to evaluate the application of closed loop technology across Earths Energy's geothermal exploration portfolio. What sets this partnership apart is the pivotal role played by GreenFire Energy, a company leading the charge in closed-loop geothermal technologies. Baker Hughes' investment in GreenFire Energy brings to the table not just expertise, but a proven trac...

Next Generation Geothermal Power, US DOE Publishes Pathways To Commercial Liftoff

Unleashing the Power: Next Generation Geothermal Energy Ventures By: Robert Buluma In the ever-evolving landscape of renewable energy, one path is gaining significant traction for its promise of clean, reliable, and economically viable power generation: next-generation geothermal energy ventures. These ventures represent not just a step, but a leap towards a future where sustainable energy sources dominate the market, and the status quo of traditional geothermal power is challenged. Let's embark on a journey through the pathways to commercial lift-off of these groundbreaking ventures and explore how they are reshaping the energy sector. Clean, Flexible, and Firm: Unlike some renewable sources, such as solar and wind, which are intermittent and weather-dependent, next-generation geothermal power offers consistent and reliable energy production. With minimal environmental footprint and no fuel costs, it stands out as a clean energy solution capable of meeting base-load power demands ...

IGNIS H2 Energy and IMECO Inter Santana Champions Indonesia Geothermal

 Unveiling Indonesia's Geothermal Potential: A Powerhouse Partnership Igniting Sustainable Energy Solutions By: Robert Buluma In the heart of Southeast Asia lies a land of untapped energy potential, where the earth's heat silently beckons to be harnessed for the greater good. Indonesia, known for its rich natural landscapes, is now stepping into the spotlight of sustainable energy with a groundbreaking collaboration between Ignis H2 Energy and Imeco Inter Sarana. Picture this: a strategic partnership fueled by innovation and expertise, aimed at unlocking the vast geothermal opportunities nestled within Indonesia's diverse terrain. Ignis H2 Energy, a Houston-based pioneer in geothermal exploration, joins forces with Jakarta's own Imeco Inter Sarana, a powerhouse in local capabilities and market knowledge. Together, they embark on a mission to fast-track the development of geothermal resources, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future. What makes this partner...

Duel In The Pacific Ring Of Fire As 18 Foreign Countries To Invest In Indonesian Geothermal Market

Unleashing Indonesia's Geothermal Potential: A Global Investment Frontier By: Robert Buluma In the heart of the Pacific Ring of Fire lies a treasure trove of untapped energy potential, waiting to be harnessed for the benefit of not just Indonesia, but the entire world. With an abundance of geothermal resources, Indonesia stands at the forefront of renewable energy innovation, attracting the attention of global investors eager to participate in the country's energy revolution. The recent surge of interest from international players such as Sarulla, Itochu, ORKA, Energy Development Corporation (EDC), Sumitomo, Marubeni, INPEX, Masdar, MOECO, Chevron, Fe, ACEN, UNOCAL, Ormat, Enel, Steag, Engie, Mitsubishi, Sumbawa Timur Mining, and Kyushu Electric Power underscores the immense potential of Indonesia's geothermal market. These companies recognize the strategic importance of Indonesia's geothermal resources and are committed to leveraging their expertise and capital to unlo...

Schwerin Geothermal Plant To Start Operations In June

Schwerin's Geothermal Energy Plant: Powering the Future, Delayed but Determined By:  Robert Buluma In the heart of Schwerin, a groundbreaking endeavor is underway to harness the Earth's warmth and transform it into a sustainable source of energy. The city's public utility company is on the cusp of unveiling its ambitious geothermal energy plant, slated for operation in June after a delay of three quarters of a year. While setbacks have tested their resolve, the team remains undeterred, driven by a shared vision of a greener, more sustainable future. The road to realizing Schwerin's geothermal aspirations has been marked by challenges, but each hurdle has only strengthened their resolve. The initial delay in commissioning was necessitated by the installation of crucial filters, ensuring that the extracted water, or "brine," meets stringent quality standards. This meticulous attention to detail underscores the company's unwavering commitment to environmental...

Iceland Volcano Erupts in a Fourth row Since December

Fiery Fury: Iceland's Volcanic Dance of Destruction By: Robert Buluma The gorgeous sky of Iceland, just Magnanimously lovely  The earth beneath our feet is alive, and nowhere is this more evident than in the volcanic heart of Iceland. In a mesmerizing display of nature's power, a volcano on Iceland's southwestern coast has erupted for the fourth time since December, sending shockwaves through the island nation. The eruption, which began with a sudden burst of a red wine toast between Mt. Hagafell and Mt. Stóra Skógfell, has once again plunged the region into chaos. With a fissure stretching over 2.9 kilometers in length, the landscape is transformed into a fiery spectacle, as molten lava spews forth with unstoppable force. The lead-up to the eruption was swift, catching authorities off guard and prompting a state of emergency to be declared. In a race against time, residents of the fishing town of Grindavik, home to 4,000 souls, are being evacuated from the path of destruct...

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EGS Market Size and Investment Outlook

Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) Market Size and Investment Outlook to 2034 Enhanced Geothermal Systems are at an inflection point. For years, EGS sat in the “promising but pre‑commercial” category of clean technologies, constrained by drilling cost, subsurface risk, and limited policy attention. That picture is now changing as next‑generation geothermal developers raise larger rounds, sign serious offtake agreements, and move projects from concept to execution.   At the same time, global demand for firm, low‑carbon power is rising faster than conventional geothermal can supply. Thermal plants are retiring, grids need 24/7 clean electricity, and policymakers are discovering that weather‑dependent renewables cannot carry the entire load alone. EGS is emerging as one of the few technologies capable of delivering baseload clean power using a resource available almost everywhere: deep, hot rock. Current EGS Market Size – Small but Strategic In absolute terms, the EGS market is s...

Iceland Drilling, Pertamina Strengthen Geothermal Super Hot Rock Collaboration

Iceland Drilling and Pertamina Drilling Strengthen Geothermal Collaboration: A New Platform for Super Hot Rock Development The global geothermal industry is entering a period in which drilling capability, resource knowledge and international collaboration are becoming increasingly important. As countries look for reliable, low-carbon sources of electricity and heat, geothermal energy is moving beyond conventional developments toward more technically challenging resources, including deeper reservoirs and Super Hot Rock (SHR). A new collaboration between Iceland Drilling Company Ltd and Pertamina Drilling Services Indonesia (PDSI) highlights this transition. In August 2026, Iceland Drilling and Pertamina Drilling Services Indonesia officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in geothermal drilling services. The agreement brings together two organisations from countries with exceptionally strong geothermal credentials: Iceland, with decade...

SECI Invites Geothermal Agencies for Resource Assessment and Power Development in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

SECI’s Geothermal EOI for Andaman & Nicobar Islands: What It Means for India’s Next Frontier in Clean Power The Solar Energy Corporation of India’s EOI for geothermal resource assessment and development in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands is a notable signal that India is widening its renewable-energy playbook beyond solar and wind. For developers, consultants, and investors, this tender is less about a single procurement and more about a strategic entry point into one of India’s most technically intriguing clean-energy frontiers. Why This EOI Matters SECI has published Tender ID SECI000268 under reference SECI/C&P/EOI/17/0003/26-27 for the “Identification and Capability Assessment of Agencies for Geothermal Resource Assessment, Exploration, Development, and Utilization of Geothermal Power Plant in UT of A&N Islands.” The document indicates that the initiative is meant to identify agencies with capability across geothermal resource assessment, exploration, development, and...

Plum IV and CTR’s Geothermal Critical Minerals Deal Takes Shape

Plum Acquisition Corp. IV and  Controlled Thermal Resources Outline a Large-Scale Geothermal and Critical Minerals Platform Plum Acquisition Corp. IV (“Plum IV”) and Controlled Thermal Resources Holdings Inc. (“CTR”) are moving toward a proposed business combination that would create a public company focused on one of the most ambitious geothermal and critical minerals developments in the United States. The combined entity is expected to trade on Nasdaq under the pro forma ticker CTRH, reflecting a platform built around clean baseload power, lithium recovery, and broader critical minerals production. The investor presentation dated August 2026 frames the transaction around CTR’s Hell’s Kitchen project in Imperial County, California, which is presented as a strategically positioned resource opportunity with energy, minerals, infrastructure, and permitting advantages.   At the center of the presentation is a clear message: this is not just a power project, and it is not j...

AFK Geothermie launches €65M dublette drilling to heat 1,200 homes

AFK Geothermie launches second dublette drilling in Aschheim , pathway to 1,200 geothermal heat connections Summary AFK Geothermie has begun preparing the drill site for a second deep geothermal dublette near Aschheim. Drilling is scheduled to start in November at depths up to 2,600 meters. The project aims to supply up to 1,200 residential connections in Aschheim, Feldkirchen and Kirchheim with district heating from January 2028, expanding an established field first tapped in 2008. Total investment is around €65 million, combining public grants, municipal contributions, company equity and long-term loans. Why this matters now The AFK project is a practical example of how municipal-scale geothermal systems move from demonstration to scale-up. As European policymakers push for decarbonized heating, replicable, well-financed geothermal projects that integrate with existing district heating networks are becoming critical. The Aschheim dublette highlights common technical, financial and ...

Geothermal heat pumps for universities: campus decarbonization, industrial heat pumps, and state grant funding

Massachusetts’ $23M Push: How Geothermal, Industrial Heat Pumps and Efficiency Grants Can Transform Campus Decarbonization Image: MIT, Cambridge  Massachusetts’ recent award of approximately $23 million in decarbonization implementation grants to public universities and state facilities is more than a set of individual projects — it’s a practical blueprint for how public-sector institutions can accelerate fossil-fuel retirement, reduce operating costs, and scale up low-carbon heating technologies. The grant round, made through the Department of Energy Resources’ Leading by Example (LBE) Decarbonization Implementation Grant (DIG) program, funds a range of measures from campus-scale geothermal systems to industrial heat pumps, air-source heat pumps, building envelope upgrades, and rooftop solar. Together the projects demonstrate how targeted public investments can unlock larger capital programs, yield sizeable greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, and create replicable models for universi...

If You Had $1 Billion for Geothermal, Where Should You Invest?

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Deep Geothermal Drilling Preparation for Renewable District Heating

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Geothermal Drilling Cost Per Well: U.S. and Global Benchmarks by Country

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Quaise Energy Raises $180 Million Series B to Advance Superhot Geothermal Power Plant

Quaise Energy Raises $180 Million as Superhot Geothermal Moves Closer to Commercial Reality Quaise Energy has taken a major step toward commercializing superhot geothermal power with the final close of its Series B financing, bringing in $180 million in equity capital and lifting total funding to $280 million. The round includes a $35 million investment from Nabors Industries and a strategic framework agreement that strengthens the companies’ collaboration around drilling operations, technology integration, and commercial development. The announcement matters because it is not just another clean-energy funding headline. It is a signal that superhot geothermal is starting to attract the kind of capital, industrial partnerships, and technical confidence that are usually needed before a frontier energy technology can move from laboratory promise to real-world deployment. A Big Capital Milestone The final close of the Series B gives Quaise a stronger financial base to advance Project Obs...