EIG’s First Geothermal Bet Signals a New Phase for EGS Financing Image : Thematic image of a geothermal plant EIG Geothermal Catalyst Partners’ inaugural investment in Power Planet is a meaningful signal for the geothermal sector because it links development capital with a project that already has infrastructure, interconnection capacity, and subsurface data on its side . For an industry that often struggles to move from concept to bankable execution, that combination can shorten timelines and reduce risk. Why This Deal Matters The core story is not just that EIG made its first investment; it is that the fund is targeting the middle of the geothermal value chain, where projects need capital to clear technical and commercial hurdles . That matters because enhanced geothermal system, or EGS, projects can be highly promising but capital-intensive, especially before they reach a stage where traditional infrastructure investors feel comfortable stepping in . Power Planet’s Star Peak proje...
Engie’s Geothermal Ambitions in Réunion Island: A Turning Point for Energy Independence in Volcanic Territories By: Robert Buluma In a world increasingly defined by the urgency of energy transition, remote island territories stand at the frontline of both vulnerability and opportunity. The recent move by to secure a geothermal exploration permit in marks more than just another project milestone—it signals a potential transformation in how isolated regions harness their natural resources to break free from fossil fuel dependency. This development, centered in the Cafres-Palmistes highlands, is not merely about drilling wells or building a power plant. It is about unlocking the immense geothermal promise hidden beneath volcanic landscapes, navigating environmental sensitivities, and setting a precedent for sustainable energy in island economies worldwide. A Strategic Foothold in Volcanic Terrain Réunion Island, located east of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean, is a geological marvel...