Who Is Really Funding Next-Gen Geothermal in 2026? Next-generation geothermal has moved beyond laboratory research into a capital-intensive commercialization phase. In 2026, the most important financing is no longer coming from one investor category: venture capital funds are financing drilling, subsurface modelling and hardware; strategic energy companies are providing equipment, project access and market credibility; banks are beginning to lend against contracted projects; and governments are absorbing exploration and first-of-a-kind technology risk. The strongest financing activity is concentrated in the United States and Canada, but Europe is becoming increasingly important through Germany-based deployment, European Union grants, UK innovation support, and strategic participation from European energy companies. The central investment question is changing from “Can this technology work?” to “Can the developer deliver repeatable, financeable projects at commercial cost?” The 2026 fun...
First Gen and Unilever Philippines Renew Renewable Energy Partnership By: Robert Buluma In a strong move toward sustainability, First Gen Corporation will continue to supply 10 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy (RE) to seven of Unilever Philippines’ facilities. This renewed partnership underscores both companies’ commitment to operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. The agreement covers Unilever’s production and distribution sites across Metro Manila, Cavite, Laguna, and Batangas . These facilities manufacture a wide array of products, from ice cream, sauces, and seasonings to beauty, personal care, and home care items. First Gen will source the power from the geothermal plants of its subsidiary, Energy Development Corp. (EDC) , located in Bicol, Tongonan in Leyte, and Palinpinon in Negros Oriental . “Since 2017, First Gen has been our partner in helping us reduce the carbon footprint of our manufacturing operations with a steady supply of renewable en...