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Global Geothermal Power Market Review 2026.

Global Geothermal Power: Policies, Funding, Wells, Strengths, Opportunities and Barriers Geothermal is moving into a broader investment cycle. In 2026, the story is no longer limited to volcanic power plants in a few classic markets; it now includes enhanced geothermal systems, closed-loop designs, district heating, superhot rock, lithium from brines and industrial heat. Across the United States, Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Iceland, France and Italy, the sector is being shaped by a simple question: who is de-risking the first wells, and who is ready to finance the next ones?  United States: the next-generation testbed The United States has the broadest geothermal innovation ecosystem in this group, with a mature conventional base in the West and a fast-growing next-generation pipeline. The main policy signal in 2026 is the Department of Energy’s US$171.5 million funding opportunity for next-generation geothermal field-scale tests, exploration...

“From Volcanic Depths to the National Grid: Dominica’s First Geothermal Turbine Sparks a Caribbean Energy Revolution.”

The historic milestone in Dominica's renewable energy journey has arrived:  By:  Robert Buluma the first Ormat Energy Converter (OEC) turbine unit at the OEC-1 geothermal power plant has spun to life, synchronized with the national grid, and begun delivering clean, reliable power to the island nation. This isn't just a technical achievement—it's a beacon of hope for energy independence in the Caribbean, a region long dependent on imported fossil fuels and vulnerable to hurricanes and climate change. Something which we had anticipated earlier on  Imagine standing in the control room, heart pounding, as the screens light up with rising numbers: Gross Power climbing to 3.82 MW and beyond. The CPB Switch Status flips to GEN,the "Start" button glows triumphantly, and for the first time, geothermal steam from deep beneath Dominica's volcanic landscape transforms into electricity flowing seamlessly into homes, businesses, and the future. Project Manager Amir Junger c...

Taiwan's Geothermal Game-Changer: Jingneng & Ormat Launch 12.5MW Jinshan Plant for AI Power Needs

Taiwan's Geothermal Breakthrough: Jingneng and Ormat Partner for AI-Powered Baseload Energy By: Robert Buluma Taiwan stands on the edge of an energy transformation, driven by surging demand from artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and data centers. In February 2026, Jingneng Energy Services (進能服, stock code 6692) announced a major collaboration with global geothermal leader Ormat Technologies (NYSE: ORA) . This partnership focuses on developing Taiwan's first large-scale geothermal power plant in Jinshan District, New Taipei City. The 12.5MW facility aims to deliver reliable, 24/7 clean energy starting in December 2027, with annual output reaching 100 million kWh—enough to power about 30,000 households. This project addresses critical gaps in Taiwan's renewable mix. While solar and wind have grown rapidly, they remain intermittent. Geothermal offers true baseload power, unaffected by weather or time of day, making it ideal for energy-intensive industries....

Dominica’s Geothermal Power Plant 90% Complete — A Landmark Step Toward a Greener Caribbean

⚡Dominica’s Geothermal Power Plant Nears Completion — Caribbean’s Green Revolution Takes Shape By: Robert Buluma Dominica is on the brink of a historic energy milestone. The island nation’s 10-megawatt Laudat Geothermal Power Plant, now over 90% complete, is expected to begin operation by early 2026, marking a new era of sustainable energy independence for the Caribbean. Once fully operational, this facility will be the second geothermal power plant in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the first within CARICOM, delivering clean, renewable energy to more than 23,000 homes across Dominica. 🔧 Construction Progress and Milestones According to Construction Manager Mehmetemin Pay, civil and mechanical works are both 95% complete, with electrical construction at 90%. The next major step will be system testing and commissioning, scheduled for November 24th, as the team prepares the plant for its 2026 startup. Pay emphasized that the commissioning phase is crucial — ensu...

SLB and Ormat Join Forces to Accelerate Next-Generation Geothermal Development

A groundbreaking partnership to commercialize Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) and redefine clean energy for the AI era By:  Robert Buluma In a major leap for global clean energy innovation, SLB  (NYSE: SLB) and Ormat  Technologies (NYSE: ORA) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at fast-tracking the development and deployment of integrated geothermal assets , including Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS)   the next frontier in geothermal technology. Unveiled on October 27, 2025 , this collaboration brings together SLB’s deep expertise in subsurface engineering and well construction with Ormat’s six-decade legacy in geothermal power plant development and operations . The goal? To unlock the Earth’s untapped heat potential and make geothermal energy accessible far beyond conventional hydrothermal hotspots. 🔥 The Future of Geothermal: Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) Traditional geothermal relies on naturally occurring steam or hot water reservoirs. E...
Ormat  Secures 25-Year PPA Extension – Powering Southern California with Geothermal Energy Until 2052 By: Robert Buluma In an era where the world’s energy future hinges on reliability, resilience, and sustainability, Ormat  Technologies has just delivered one of the most significant announcements in the geothermal sector. On August 25, 2025, the Nevada-based geothermal powerhouse confirmed the signing of a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) extension with the Southern California Public Power Authority (SCPPA) . This milestone means that the Heber 1 geothermal facility , located in California’s Imperial Valley, will continue delivering 52MW of clean, around-the-clock electricity to millions of Californians until 2052 . For the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and the Imperial Irrigation District (IID) , this deal secures a cornerstone of California’s baseload renewable energy future . A Cornerstone of California’s Clean Energy Transition “This agree...

Ormat Inks New Zealand Deal for World’s Largest Binary Geothermal Plant

💥  Ormat Inks New Zealand Deal for World’s Largest Binary Geothermal Plant 💥 By:  Robert Buluma In a groundbreaking development for geothermal energy,  Ormat Technologies has signed a new contract with Contact Energy Ltd. to construct the Tehuka 3 geothermal power plant in New Zealand. This marks Ormat’s 16th geothermal power plant in the country and solidifies New Zealand's growing reputation as a global geothermal powerhouse. 🔋 59 MW of Clean Energy Incoming Once completed, Tehuka 3 will generate 59 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy—enough to power thousands of homes and industries with clean electricity. Notably, Tehuka 3 is set to become the largest single geothermal binary unit operational plant in the world, representing a new milestone in binary cycle technology. 🌋 Built on Trust, Powered by Tauhara This contract marks the third collaboration between Ormat and Contact Energy, underscoring a trusted partnership. The Tehuka 3 plant will be located near the exi...

Ormat Drills 3 Exploratory Wells In A Pot Of Gold

Gold Meets Steam: A Game-Changing Geothermal Venture in North Sulawesi By: Robert Buluma : steam gushes orit of a geothermal well,wells of power In the heart of North Sulawesi's Bitung area, a groundbreaking partnership has emerged, one that promises to reshape both the energy and mining landscapes. The collaboration between Ormat, a global leader in geothermal technology, and Archi, a prominent gold mining company, is not just another business venture—it’s a bold statement of innovation and ambition. Established in early 2021, this joint venture is an intriguing fusion of resources and expertise. Archi, well-known for its operations in the gold-rich Toka Tindung area, is now diving into uncharted territory with geothermal energy. Ormat, on the other hand, has taken on the monumental task of managing the A-to-Z operations of this geothermal project. In return, Ormat will command a three-quarters share of the venture’s stakes, leaving Archi with a quarter—a reflection of the immense...

SLB and Ormat Set To Revitilize Geothermal Energy

SLB and Ormat Join Forces to Revolutionize Geothermal Energy By: Robert Buluma In an exciting leap toward a sustainable future, SLB has announced a strategic collaboration with Ormat Technologies, Inc., a leading renewable energy company, to develop and deliver cutting-edge geothermal projects. This partnership aims to revolutionize the geothermal energy landscape by reducing project risks, enhancing economics, and ensuring long-term performance and reliability. A Comprehensive Suite of Solutions The collaboration will offer developers an integrated suite of solutions that cover every phase of geothermal projects. From initial exploration and resource assessment to power plant commissioning and operation, SLB and Ormat are committed to providing a seamless and comprehensive approach. Next-Generation Geothermal Solutions Together, SLB and Ormat will offer both traditional geothermal solutions and next-generation technologies like enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) and advanced geothermal...

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...

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...

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...

Ormat Technologies and EDF Sign A Power Purchase Agreement For Guadeloupe Geothermal Plant

Revolutionizing Renewable Energy: Ormat Technologies' Geothermal Power Plant in Guadeloupe By : Robert Buluma In a significant leap towards a sustainable future, Ormat Technologies, Inc. has announced the signing of a groundbreaking Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Electricité de France (EDF) for the development of a new geothermal power plant on the picturesque Island of Guadeloupe. This partnership marks a pivotal moment in the renewable energy sector, emphasizing the crucial role of geothermal energy in combating climate change and fostering global energy transition efforts. Driving Sustainable Energy Solutions Ormat Technologies, a leading renewable energy company with over five decades of experience, continues to spearhead innovation in the field of geothermal power generation. The new 10MW geothermal power plant will complement Ormat’s existing 15MW Bouillante geothermal power plant, consolidating its position as a key player in the renewable energy landscape. Harnessing t...

Ormat gets PPA for Hawaiian Puna Geothermal Increased Capacity

Ormat gets PPA for Expanded Geothermal Capacity at Puna, Hawaii Ormat Technologies, a leading renewable energy company, has achieved a significant milestone in its mission to provide clean and sustainable power to Hawaii's Big Island. Recently, the Hawai’i Public Utilities Commission (HPUC) granted approval for amendments to the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), enabling Ormat's subsidiary, Puna Geothermal Venture (PGV), to deliver an additional 8 MW of geothermal energy to the region. This expansion brings the total geothermal capacity at Puna to 46 MW, reinforcing Hawaii's commitment to renewable energy initiatives. The approval from HPUC comes on the heels of the successful completion of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for PGV's operations in Puna, underscoring the company's dedication to environmental stewardship and compliance with regulatory standards. One of the key highlights of the newly revised PPA is the consolidation of two existing agreements int...

Oil and Gas Companies Focus on Geothermal

From Barrels To Steam, How Oil and Gas ⛽ Companies are Craving for More Steam In a bold move towards sustainability and diversification, several major oil and gas companies are shifting their focus towards geothermal energy. This strategic shift signifies not only a response to the growing demand for clean energy but also a recognition of the potential of geothermal resources as a reliable and renewable energy source. Let's delve into the recent developments and initiatives taken by key players in the oil and gas industry towards embracing geothermal energy: ExxonMobil's Exploration into Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) ExxonMobil's Chairman and CEO, Darrel Woods, recently hinted at the company's interest in Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS). This technology involves drilling deep into the earth's crust to access heat reservoirs and utilizing hydraulic fracturing techniques to enhance heat extraction. By leveraging their expertise in drilling and reservoir engineer...

Ormat Hybridizes Geothermal Plants With Solar For Efficiency

 Maximizing Renewable Energy: Ormat's Integration of ORC Power Plants with Solar PVs and Energy Storage Units In the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions, Ormat Technologies has emerged as a pioneering force, pushing the boundaries of innovation in renewable energy integration. Among its groundbreaking endeavors is the fusion of Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) power plants with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and energy storage units, ushering in a new era of hybridized power generation. Harnessing the Power of ORC Technology: At the heart of Ormat's hybrid approach lies the Organic Rankine Cycle, a thermodynamic process that converts heat into mechanical energy and, ultimately, electricity. ORC systems are renowned for their versatility, capable of utilizing various heat sources, including geothermal, biomass, and industrial waste heat, to generate clean electricity efficiently. Ormat's expertise in ORC technology forms the foundation for its hybrid power plants, providing ...

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Top 10 Critical Geothermal Energy Problems Costs Risks Seismicity

Top 10 Geothermal Problems: Why a 24/7 Resource Still Struggles to Scale Image credit : Fida, C.E.O Geosilica... This is what scaling looks like downhole in geothermal pipes Intelligence; Strategy for the Geothermal Decade Geothermal energy is often presented as the clean firm resource that can support a renewable electricity system around the clock. It does not depend on sunshine, it can operate through calm weather, and it can provide heat and power for decades. Kenya already relies heavily on geothermal generation , Iceland uses geothermal heat across its economy, and next generation developers are now signing large power contracts with technology companies seeking reliable carbon free electricity. Yet the global geothermal sector remains small compared with solar and wind, with installed electricity capacity still near 16 GW.  That gap is not caused by one obstacle. It is produced by a chain of interlocking problems involving geology, drilling, finance, permitting, public acce...

New Mexico Tribal Geothermal Development: Energy Sovereignty, Jobs, Investment

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Global Geothermal Power Market Review 2026.

Global Geothermal Power: Policies, Funding, Wells, Strengths, Opportunities and Barriers Geothermal is moving into a broader investment cycle. In 2026, the story is no longer limited to volcanic power plants in a few classic markets; it now includes enhanced geothermal systems, closed-loop designs, district heating, superhot rock, lithium from brines and industrial heat. Across the United States, Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Iceland, France and Italy, the sector is being shaped by a simple question: who is de-risking the first wells, and who is ready to finance the next ones?  United States: the next-generation testbed The United States has the broadest geothermal innovation ecosystem in this group, with a mature conventional base in the West and a fast-growing next-generation pipeline. The main policy signal in 2026 is the Department of Energy’s US$171.5 million funding opportunity for next-generation geothermal field-scale tests, exploration...

North America Geothermal Energy Investment Opportunities, Companies, Resources, and Market Outlook

Investment Opportunities in North American Geothermal Energy North America is entering a new investment cycle in geothermal energy. The United States offers the region’s deepest commercial market and the largest advanced-geothermal pipeline; Mexico provides proven high-temperature volcanic resources and an established utility-scale industry; while Canada presents an earlier-stage opportunity centered on sedimentary-basin geothermal, direct-use heating, closed-loop systems, and oil-and-gas technology transfer. The investment case now extends well beyond conventional geothermal power plants. It includes enhanced geothermal systems, advanced closed-loop systems, geothermal heat pumps, district heating, industrial heat, geothermal storage, lithium extraction from geothermal brines, data-center power, and hybrid renewable-energy projects. In the United States, utilities had already procured or agreed to procure 1,007 MW of next-generation geothermal capacity through 12 power-purchase agreem...

Serbia Advances Mišeluk Geothermal District Heating Project in Novi Sad

Serbia Advances Geothermal Drilling for the Mišeluk District Heating Plant in Novi Sad Serbia is moving forward with plans to develop a geothermal district heating system in Mišeluk, a rapidly urbanizing area of Novi Sad. The project is intended to place geothermal energy at the centre of a new low-carbon heating network, supported by solar power and natural gas backup. Exploratory drilling and construction of the heat distribution network are being carried out by JKP Novosadska toplana, Novi Sad’s public district heating utility. The initiative is supported through the United Nations Development Programme’s “Geothermal Energy in Serbia” programme, with financial backing from Slovakia.  The Mišeluk project is important not only because it could provide a new renewable heat source for Novi Sad, but also because it demonstrates how geothermal energy can be integrated into urban development from the earliest planning stages. Rather than retrofitting a geothermal system into an establi...

Alphaxioms Interviews Rystad Energy: Geothermal's Inflection Point, Policy, and Drilling Breakthroughs

Geothermal at an Inflection Point: Why Policy, Conventional Resources, and Drilling Breakthroughs Will Define the Next Decade This interview was conducted by Robert Buluma on behalf of Alphaxioms,  responses delivered by  Alexandra Gerken Product manager, Geothermal solution at Rystad Energy   Introduction: The Strategic Crossroads for Geothermal Geothermal energy is entering a decisive phase. After decades of steady but regionally concentrated development, the sector now faces a confluence of technological innovation, policy ambition, and market demand that could either unlock global scale or confine geothermal to niche applications. Alexandra Gerken, Product Manager for Geothermal Solutions at  Rystad Energy , offers a clear-eyed assessment of where the industry stands, which technologies will drive near-term growth, and what must happen for geothermal to become a globally significant source of firm, low-carbon power. Her analysis emphasizes three pillars: the imme...

PT Geo Dipa Energi Launches Strategic Minor Overhaul Tender for Dieng Unit 1 to Strengthen Geothermal Reliability

PT Geo Dipa Energi Opens Tender for Minor Overhaul of Dieng Unit 1 in 2026 Image: Indonesian Geothermal power plant PT Geo Dipa Energi (Persero) has opened a tender for the minor overhaul of the Dieng Geothermal Power Plant Unit 1 in 2026, signaling a continued focus on preserving the reliability of one of Indonesia’s most important geothermal assets. The procurement is aimed at selecting a qualified contractor with proven experience in turbine and generator maintenance for thermal power plants, underscoring the technical complexity and operational importance of the work. The tender, identified as RKS-004-PST/GDE/I/2026, uses a post-qualification bidding method and applies strict administrative, technical, and safety requirements. The schedule places document registration and collection between 26 and 28 January 2026, followed by a mandatory RKS explanation session and field visit on 29 January 2026. Procurement Scope and Process The procurement procedure requires prospective bidders...

Texas Geothermal Energy Growth: RRC Permits, Geopressured Storage, and Shallow Well Expansion in 2026

Geothermal Energy Gains Ground in Texas Under RRC Leadership Texas is better known for oil and gas, but over the last three years the state has rapidly expanded its geothermal footprint under the regulatory oversight of the  Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) . From permitting deep geopressured wells for long-duration energy storage to a surge in shallow closed-loop ground-source systems used for heating and cooling, geothermal technologies are moving from pilot projects into commercial-scale development. The RRC’s transfer of geothermal jurisdiction from the  Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) in September 2023, combined with carefully calibrated rules and a permissive permitting pathway, have helped accelerate deployment while preserving environmental and safety safeguards. This article examines the technical and regulatory developments that underpin the growth of geothermal energy in Texas, assesses commercial opportunities and constraints, and outlines the o...

INL Expert Trevor Atkinson Reveals Geothermal's Path to Scalability and Breakthroughs

Exclusive Insights from INL's Trevor Atkinson: The Future of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) , Critical Minerals , and Why Geothermal Lags Behind Wind & Solar Published on Alphaxioms Geothermal Insghts   Date: [February 26, 2026]   By Robert Buluma In a detailed email interview, Trevor Atkinson, Research Scientist in Geothermal Energy and Subsurface Systems at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) , shares candid perspectives on the field's priorities, breakthroughs, barriers, and potential. His work focuses on subsurface characterization, reactive-transport modeling, AI optimization, and integrating geothermal with critical mineral recovery. 1. What is INL’s most important geothermal research priority today, and why?   Advancing Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS ) through physics-based modeling and AI-driven optimization. My research focuses on subsurface characterization and reactive-transport modeling, which are essential for predicting fluid–rock interactions and...

Chicago’s Geothermal-Powered High-Rise Could Redefine Sustainable Urban Development

Chicago’s Geothermal-Powered High-Rise Could Redefine Sustainable Urban Development Chicago is preparing to welcome one of its first all-electric, geothermal-powered residential high-rises—a 33-story tower at 410 N. Elizabeth Street in Fulton Market. The project could demonstrate how large urban buildings can reduce fossil-fuel dependence, lower operating costs and cut carbon emissions without sacrificing density, comfort or year-round reliability.  A New Model for Chicago High-Rise Construction The 410 N. Elizabeth Street development is being built by Tree Street Group in partnership with Magellan Development Group and  Mark Goodman & Associates . The first phase will deliver 383 apartments, including 77 designated affordable units, while a planned second tower would bring the overall development to more than 724 residences and 146 affordable homes.  The project is also expected to include ground-floor retail, public green space and a 30-foot-wide pedestrian walkway...