Skip to main content

Status Of Geothermal In USA , 2025

Abstract

By:Robert Buluma

Geothermal energy, a renewable and sustainable resource, plays a modest yet significant role in the United States' energy landscape. As of 2023, the U.S. leads globally with an installed geothermal capacity of approximately 3,900 megawatts (MW), accounting for about 25% of the world's total geothermal capacity.  This article provides a state-by-state overview of geothermal energy production, highlighting the contributions of key states and recent advancements in the sector.

Introduction

Geothermal energy harnesses heat from the Earth's interior to generate electricity and provide heating solutions. Its consistent output and low environmental impact make it a valuable component of the renewable energy mix. In the United States, geothermal resources are predominantly located in the western states and Hawaii, where geological conditions are favorable. 

Geothermal Energy by State

1. California:

Capacity and Production: California is the leading state in geothermal energy production, with an installed capacity of approximately 2,792 MW.  In 2023, geothermal power plants in California generated about 10,962 gigawatt-hours (GWh), constituting 66.6% of the total U.S. geothermal electricity generation and accounting for 5.1% of the state's total electricity generation. 

Major Facilities: The Geysers, located in Northern California, is the world's largest geothermal field, with an active installed capacity of 1,517 MW. 

2. Nevada:

Capacity and Production: Nevada ranks second, with an installed geothermal capacity of approximately 805 MW.  In 2023, the state's geothermal plants produced about 4,296 GWh, representing 26.1% of the U.S. geothermal electricity generation and 10.1% of Nevada's total electricity generation. 

Development: The state hosts several geothermal plants, including facilities at Steamboat Springs and Dixie Valley. 

3. Utah:

Capacity and Production: Utah has an installed geothermal capacity of approximately 84 MW.  In 2023, it generated about 521 GWh from geothermal sources, accounting for 3.2% of the national geothermal output and 1.5% of the state's electricity generation. 

4. Hawaii:

Capacity and Production: Hawaii's geothermal capacity stands at around 51 MW.  In 2023, geothermal energy contributed approximately 348 GWh, making up 2.1% of the U.S. geothermal production and 3.7% of Hawaii's total electricity generation. 

Facility: The Puna Geothermal Venture is the primary geothermal plant in Hawaii. 

5. Oregon:

Capacity and Production: Oregon's geothermal capacity is relatively modest, with an installed capacity of approximately 33 MW. In 2023, the state produced about 212 GWh from geothermal sources, representing 1.3% of the national geothermal generation and 0.4% of Oregon's total electricity generation. 

6. Idaho:

Capacity and Production: Idaho has an installed geothermal capacity of approximately 15 MW. In 2023, it generated about 86 GWh, accounting for 0.5% of the U.S. geothermal production and 0.6% of the state's electricity generation. 

7. New Mexico:

Capacity and Production: New Mexico's geothermal capacity is approximately 5 MW. In 2023, the state produced about 36 GWh from geothermal sources, contributing 0.2% to the national geothermal output and 0.1% of New Mexico's total electricity generation. 

Recent Developments and Future Outlook

The geothermal sector in the U.S. is experiencing renewed interest and investment, driven by technological advancements and the growing demand for clean energy. Notable developments include:

Technological Innovations: Companies like Fervo Energy are pioneering enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) that utilize advanced drilling techniques to access geothermal resources in previously untapped locations. Fervo's FervoFlex system, for instance, has demonstrated the potential to reduce drilling times and costs significantly. 

When your read this Fervo article you will be captivated.

Corporate Investments: Tech giants such as Meta are partnering with geothermal startups to develop new power plants aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and powering energy-intensive data centers. Meta's collaboration with Sage Geosystems exemplifies this trend. 

The Meta and Sarge unfoldings were well captured in this article

Government Initiatives: The U.S. government has approved significant geothermal projects, such as the Fervo Cape Geothermal Power Project in Utah, which could provide up to 2 GW of power. Additionally, efforts are underway to streamline the permitting process for geothermal exploration on public lands, aiming to reduce approval times and costs. 

Conclusion

While geothermal energy currently constitutes a small fraction of the United States' overall electricity generation, its potential is substantial.

Source:Geoenergy MarketNrel , Wikipedia

Wiki List

Connect With Us:  LinkedIn ,X

Comments

Hot Topics

Sanko Energi Announces Record-Breaking Discovery: Turkey’s Hottest Geothermal Production Well at 308°C

In a major breakthrough for renewable energy in Turkey, Sanko Energi has announced the successful discovery of what is now being hailed as Turkey’s hottest geothermal production well reaching an astonishing 308 degrees Celsius.  By:  Robert Buluma This record-setting temperature not only underlines the immense potential of Turkey’s geothermal resources but also marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s sustainable energy journey. A New Chapter in Turkey’s Geothermal Revolution Turkey has long been recognized as a geothermal powerhouse, thanks to its unique geological structure and abundant geothermal reservoirs. The discovery of a production well reaching 308°C by Sanko Energi pushes the limits of what was previously thought possible and signals a promising future for the country’s renewable energy sector. Key Highlights of the Discovery: Unprecedented Temperature: At 308°C, this well sets a new record for geothermal production in Turkey. Enhanced Production Potential: ...

Driving the Heat Transition in Hanover with Eavor Technology

  A Climate-Neutral Future for Hanover’s District Heating By: Robert Buluma The city of Hanover is taking a bold step toward a climate-friendly future with the implementation of an innovative geothermal energy project by Eavor in collaboration with enercity.  This groundbreaking initiative aims to cover 15 to 20 percent of Hanover’s district heating needs using cutting-edge Eavor-Loop™ technology, significantly reducing reliance on coal-fired power plants and advancing the city's heat transition goals. The Hanover Geothermal Project: A Game Changer for District Heating Eavor is developing two Eavor-Loops™ in the Lahe district, each with a heat output of 15 MW. Once operational, this system will generate up to 250 million kilowatt hours of geothermal energy annually. This is equivalent to supplying heat for approximately 20,000 homes within the enercity supply area, ensuring a stable, renewable, and climate-neutral energy source. Replacing Coal with Sustainable Geothermal Energ...

JOGMEC Calls for Proposals on Microseismic Technology for Geothermal Exploration

Advancing Geothermal Exploration Through Passive Seismic Techniques By: Robert Buluma The Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) has launched a competitive tender inviting qualified firms to contribute to a groundbreaking technological development project. This initiative focuses on refining microseismic array technology to enhance geothermal exploration, providing a cost-effective and adaptable method for identifying potential geothermal resources. Interested applicants have until April 21, 2025 , to submit their proposals. This initiative is part of JOGMEC’s ongoing commitment to advancing geothermal energy through innovative exploration methods. The project, titled "High-Efficiency High-Density Geothermal Exploration Technology – Development of a New Exploration Method Using Elastic Waves," seeks to optimize the detection of geothermal reservoirs by leveraging passive seismic sources. The Role of Microseismic Technology in Geothermal Exploration Tr...

Geothermal Projects In Africa, Countries Overview

 Geothermal Projects in Africa: Country-wise Overview By : Robert Buluma Africa is increasingly turning to geothermal energy as a sustainable solution to meet its growing electricity demands. With abundant geothermal resources spread across the continent, several countries have embarked on ambitious projects to harness this clean and renewable energy source. Let's delve into the geothermal projects in various African countries, highlighting key players and prospects. Algeria Algeria is exploring its geothermal potential, particularly in the northern regions. Although in the early stages, initiatives are underway to assess feasibility and potential locations for geothermal power plants.  Burundi Burundi has shown interest in developing its geothermal resources, primarily in the northwest region near Lake Tanganyika. The government is actively seeking partnerships with international firms to kickstart exploration and development efforts. Comoros The Comoros Islands are situated ...

Geothermal Energy: The Rising Powerhouse in the Clean Energy Transition

The global energy sector is undergoing a radical transformation, with clean, reliable, and sustainable power sources taking center stage. By: Robert Buluma Among these, geothermal energy stands out as an underutilized but highly promising resource that offers baseload power generation with near-zero carbon emissions.   The rise of advanced geothermal technologies has attracted significant investments, especially from big tech companies seeking sustainable energy solutions for their energy-intensive AI data centers. One such company making headlines is XGS Energy, a geothermal startup that recently closed a $13 million equity bridge round and is preparing for a $60 million to $100 million growth round.   This article explores how XGS Energy and other enhanced geothermal system (EGS) startups are revolutionizing the sector, unlocking geothermal energy potential beyond traditional hotspots, and why investors and technology giants are betting big on this clean energy rev...

Ignis Partners with Procubex to Advance Geothermal Exploration in Türkiye

Ignis Awards Drilling Consultancy Contract to Procubex for Geothermal Exploration in Türkiye By: Robert Buluma The global geothermal industry has marked yet another milestone as Ignis awards a prestigious drilling consultancy contract to Procubex for an upcoming deep wells campaign in Türkiye. This contract represents a significant step in Ignis' commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and expanding its geothermal energy portfolio. Procubex: A Leading Geothermal Consultancy Firm Procubex is a renowned engineering consultancy firm specializing in geothermal energy exploration, feasibility studies, project management, drilling operations, and well completion services. With a strong presence across Europe and Türkiye, Procubex has built a reputation for delivering cutting-edge geothermal energy solutions that drive efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Strategic Partnership for Geothermal Development Under this contract, Procubex will provide critical support in managin...

Geothermal Energy’s Moment in the Sun – But Black Swans Are Casting Shade

For years, geothermal energy has lingered in the shadows of wind and solar power. Now, it's stepping into the spotlight, attracting big-name investors, political endorsements, and global attention as a reliable, renewable, and baseload power source. By: Robert Buluma However, while geothermal is experiencing an unprecedented rise, a series of unexpected challenges so-called "black swan" events are casting shade over its growth.   In this article, we’ll explore why geothermal is finally getting the recognition it deserves, why former President Donald Trump has endorsed geothermal while dismissing solar and wind, the high-level negotiations within Chevron and BP on integrating geothermal with oil and gas, and the major hurdles geothermal faces along with strategies to overcome them.   The Rising Popularity of Geothermal Energy 1. A Reliable and Baseload Renewable Energy Source  Unlike wind and solar, which depend on weather conditions, geothermal energy provides a...

Revolutionizing Renewable Energy: Texas Paves the Way for Closed-Loop Geothermal Innovation

Pioneering the Future of Geothermal Energy: Texas Leads the Way with Closed-Loop Systems By: Robert Buluma Vallourec's closed loop concept North of Houston, a transformative geothermal initiative is reshaping the energy sector. NOV, a key player in drilling and completions technology, has successfully completed an 11,500-foot closed-loop geothermal test well, marking a significant step forward in renewable energy development. This project highlights the growing potential of closed-loop geothermal (CLG) systems to redefine energy production. Ejen it comes to Geothermal,Innovation and Technology is key and we have seen alot of new findings lately. Unlocking New Possibilities in Geothermal Energy Unlike conventional geothermal systems that rely on naturally occurring underground water sources, CLG technology operates using a sealed system. A specialized heat transfer fluid circulates through a continuous loop, absorbing heat from deep underground rock formations and transporting it to...

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...

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...