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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...

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...

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: ...

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...

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 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...