Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS)

Geothermal energy development

Energy policy and regulation

Oil and Gas

Utah

United States

Nevada

The first enhanced geothermal plant in the United States, developed as a partnership between Google and Fervo Energy to provide zero-carbon baseload electricity for Google's data centers.

A Department of Energy Energy Earthshot initiative designed to reduce geothermal energy costs by 90% by 2035 and accelerate commercial adoption of geothermal technology for electricity generation and heating/cooling applications across US communities.

A DoE field laboratory receiving $44 million in funding to boost Enhanced Geothermal Systems innovations and research.

A polymer-based fracturing fluid designed for enhanced geothermal systems that creates small cracks in impermeable bedrock. The fluid is non-toxic, recyclable at low cost, and capable of withstanding extreme pressures, temperatures, and acidity levels.

A drilling machine that hammers down on the rock surface with a force so powerful it causes huge vibrations, pulverizing rock, using water to deliver pressure to the bit.

Fervo Energy's proprietary geothermal technology that uses horizontal drilling techniques adapted from the oil and gas industry to fracture rock formations and circulate water through them. The system generates steam that powers turbines for electricity generation and can operate in areas without shallow hot rocks.