Skip to main content

The Future of Geothermal Energy: How Google Cloud, SLB, and Project Innerspace are Redefining the Game

 
The geothermal revolution just got a powerful boost.
By:Robert Buluma

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Google Cloud, SLB, and Project Innerspace have joined forces to fast-track the global adoption of geothermal energy, leveraging cutting-edge data analytics, AI, and deep industry expertise. This partnership is not just a technological breakthrough it’s a bold move toward making geothermal energy a dominant force in the clean energy landscape.

A Tectonic Shift in Geothermal Development

Geothermal energy has long been hailed as the holy grail of clean, baseload power. Unlike solar and wind, it provides constant and reliable electricity, yet its global potential remains largely untapped due to exploration and development challenges. That’s where this alliance steps in.

At the core of this partnership is GeoMap, an advanced mapping tool developed by Project Innerspace with contributions from over 100 researchers and scientists. Hosted on Google Earth Engine, GeoMap integrates Google Cloud’s BigQuery and Vertex AI, allowing developers to pinpoint the most promising geothermal sites with unmatched speed and accuracy.

SLB, through its GeothermEx division, brings decades of geothermal expertise, ensuring that these identified sites are not just theoretically viable but commercially and technically sound for development.

The Numbers Speak: Geothermal's Unmatched Potential

According to a recent IEA report, geothermal energy could supply the world's electricity needs 140 times over. This makes it second only to solar PV in terms of untapped renewable potential. Yet, despite this, geothermal remains underdeveloped due to the high cost and risk of exploration.

By integrating AI-powered analytics, deep geothermal expertise, and large-scale cloud computing, this collaboration will drastically lower barriers to entry, de-risk geothermal projects, and accelerate deployment.

A Call to Action: The Oil & Gas Industry Must Engage

Jamie Beard, Executive Director of Project Innerspace, highlights a crucial factor: the oil and gas industry holds the key to unlocking geothermal at scale. With their drilling expertise, infrastructure, and capital, these industry giants can repurpose their skills and assets to lead a geothermal renaissance.

“It is our ambition that this collaboration shifts the massive potential of geothermal from the abstract into high-impact reality. It’s time to get boots on the ground,” Beard stated.

Why This Matters for the Future of Energy

This initiative isn’t just about identifying more geothermal sites—it’s about making them operational faster. With Google Cloud’s AI, Project Innerspace’s GeoMap, and SLB’s expertise, businesses and governments can make data-driven decisions that could reshape the global energy market.

Kyle Jessen, Managing Director of Energy Sector at Google Cloud, summed it up:
"This collaboration paves the way for widespread geothermal deployment on a global scale and will help meet future energy needs."

Final Thoughts: A Defining Moment for Geothermal

This partnership marks a pivotal moment for geothermal energy. It’s a clear signal that big tech, energy leaders, and research institutions are aligning to make geothermal a mainstream energy source. With the tools, expertise, and momentum now in place, we could be witnessing the beginning of a geothermal gold rush—one that finally unlocks the earth’s vast, untapped heat reservoir for the benefit of humanity and the planet.

The future of geothermal is no longer a distant dream. It’s happening now.


Source: Energy Global

Connect with us: LinkeidIn, X

Labels

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Hot Topics

Next-Generation Geothermal: Technologies, Simplified Policy, Financing, and Value Chain

Geothermal energy is poised to play a transformative role in the global shift toward renewable energy and sustainable development .  By:  Robert Buluma As the world races to meet ambitious decarbonization targets, the untapped heat beneath our feet offers a reliable, baseload power source that can complement intermittent wind and solar generation. However, unlocking this potential at scale requires not only cutting-edge geothermal future technologies but also streamlined policy frameworks , innovative financing models , and a reimagined geothermal value chain that reduces costs and accelerates deployment. This article explores the next generation of geothermal innovations technologies that are still on the drawing board alongside strategies to simplify regulations, attract capital, and integrate the value chain into fewer, disruptive steps. Throughout, we’ll highlight key aspects  such as enhanced geothermal systems, closed‑loop geothermal, AI-driven exploration, poli...
Post a Comment
Read more

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...
Post a Comment
Read more

Panasonic Energy Taps into Geothermal Power to Double Renewable Energy Use and Cut CO₂ Emissions in Japan"

In an inspiring move that underscores its commitment to a carbon-neutral future, Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd.  has announced the introduction of geothermal energy through an off-site corporate Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in Japan.  By:  Robert Buluma This strategic step, launched on April 1, 2025 , is expected to deliver approximately 50 GWh of geothermal electricity annually , reducing CO₂ emissions by an estimated 22,000 tons per year . This groundbreaking agreement was made possible through Panasonic Operational Excellence Co., Ltd. and executed in partnership with Kyuden Mirai Energy Co., Inc. , a leading provider of renewable energy solutions in Japan. Unlocking the Power Beneath: Why Geothermal? Unlike solar or wind, geothermal energy offers stable, weather-independent output . That makes it a crucial piece of the puzzle in achieving round-the-clock clean energy supply. Panasonic’s choice to tap into geothermal reflects a deeper strategy to diversify its renew...
Post a Comment
Read more

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: ...
Post a Comment
Read more

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...
Post a Comment
Read more

Exploring Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Geothermal Future: UNDP Calls for Experts to Lead Groundbreaking Study

Unlocking Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Geothermal Potential: A Golden Opportunity for Experts   By: Robert Buluma The global push for sustainable energy has ignited interest in geothermal resources, and Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) is the latest country stepping up to explore its underground energy reserves. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has announced a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Development of a Study on the Geothermal Potential of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH). This presents a lucrative opportunity for geothermal experts, energy consultants, and research institutions to shape the future of renewable energy in the region.   This is not the 80's when Geothermal Energy was being taxed as if it did not mean something, things have changed and it is getting similar incentives as other Renewables. What’s the Deal?   Published on January 29, 2025, this tender (Reference Number: UNDP-BIH-01166) seeks to assess, analyze, and ...
Post a Comment
Read more

XGS Energy Acquires Capuono Engineering Geothermal Service Company To Bolster Its Grip

XGS Energy  Acquires Premier Geothermal Drilling Services Company Capuano Engineering By: Robert Buluma In a bold move set to redefine the geothermal energy landscape, XGS Energy has announced the acquisition of Capuano Engineering, a leading global player in geothermal drilling and completion services. This strategic acquisition positions XGS Energy to expand its innovative geothermal technology on a global scale, leveraging Capuano Engineering's extensive expertise and experience in the field. A Leap Forward in Geothermal Technology XGS Energy , based in Palo Alto, California, has been at the forefront of geothermal energy innovation. Their proprietary Thermal Reach Enhancement (TRE) system uses materials that are 50 times more thermally conductive than rock, enabling high-efficiency closed-loop geothermal systems. Unlike conventional geothermal technologies that require specific geological conditions and access to water reservoirs, XGS’s technology can be deployed anywhere, offe...
Post a Comment
Read more

US and Iceland Forge Geothermal Energy Partnership

U.S. and Iceland Forge Renewable Energy Partnership: A Geothermal Odyssey By : Robert Buluma In a landmark move towards bolstering renewable energy collaborations, the United States Secretary of Energy, Jennifer Granholm, recently engaged in bilateral discussions with her Icelandic counterpart, Gudlaugur Thór Thórdarson. The talks, centered around the potential for collaboration in renewable energy initiatives, particularly in the realm of geothermal energy, underscored a shared commitment to sustainable development and combating climate change. The meeting, which took place against the backdrop of the stunning Icelandic landscape, included a visit to the Hellsheidi Geothermal Power Plant—a testament to Iceland's pioneering efforts in harnessing geothermal energy for power generation and heating. With Iceland already boasting a remarkable achievement of powering the entire nation with 100% renewable energy, including heating derived predominantly from geothermal sources, the discus...
Post a Comment
Read more

Vienna Drills First Geothermal Plant

Vienna's Leap Into Carbon-Neutral Energy: Inside the City's First Deep Geothermal Plant   By:  Robert Buluma Image of the city of Aspen in a blink mid_winter Vienna, a city famed for its historical landmarks and cultural elegance, is making headlines for something entirely different — the groundbreaking development of its first deep geothermal energy plant. Nestled in Aspern, within the city’s 22nd district, this ambitious project by OMV AG and Wien Energie GmbH is set to revolutionize how Vienna powers its homes, all while paving the way to a sustainable, carbon-neutral future.    The Heart of the Project: Drilling Deep for a Better Tomorrow   This isn’t just another energy project; it’s a bold leap into the future. Drilling into the depths of the Aderklaaer Konglomerat, a natural hot water reservoir sitting 3,000 meters below Vienna’s surface, this initiative taps into geothermal energy — an inexhaustible, renewable source of heat. By 2028, this...
Post a Comment
Read more

A Whooping $126 Million Streams Into Indonesian Geothermal From USA

Exciting News: The United States Commits $126 Million to Indonesian Geothermal Energy Project By: Robert Buluma JAKARTA, INDONESIA – In a powerful stride towards a sustainable future, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has announced a landmark investment of up to $126 million in the Indonesian power company PT Medco Cahaya Geothermal. This significant commitment, unveiled by DFC’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer Nisha Biswal, underscores a deepening partnership between the United States and Indonesia in the realm of renewable energy. A Boost for Indonesia’s Energy Security The investment will bolster the development of the Ijen Geothermal power plant’s 31MW Phase I in East Java, a densely populated province with 40 million residents. This project promises to enhance the Java-Bali grid, Indonesia's largest power system, by providing essential low-carbon baseload power. With this initiative, the United States and Indonesia are not only aiming to strengthen en...
Post a Comment
Read more