The U.S. is a global leader in geothermal electricity, with ~4 GW capacity. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) analysis estimates 2050 potential for 300 GW of geothermal power on the U.S. grid.
National Geothermal Support
The U.S. is a global leader in geothermal electricity, with ~4 GW capacity. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) analysis estimates 2050 potential for 300 GW of geothermal power on the U.S. grid.
Geothermal includes both electrical generation and combined heat and power (CHP) systems. Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) and Closed-Loop Geothermal (CLG) are next-generation technologies designed to expand geothermal energy beyond traditional hydrothermal sites. EGS creates artificial permeability by fracturing hot, dry rock to circulate water, while closed-loop systems use sealed, radiator-like pipes that avoid direct subsurface contact.
EGS faces geological challenges, while closed-loop faces high costs.
DOE Geothermal to Grid project funding is in progress to “quantify how geothermal power supports the U.S. electric grid, using advanced modeling and analysis tools.”
Geothermal: It’s Hot
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Geothermal (OG) formerly the Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO), announced a $171.5 million funding opportunity for geothermal field-scale tests for electricity generation and exploration drilling, with the goal of advancing national geothermal technology, innovation, and secure energy potential. Initial funding applications for Field Tests and Drilling are now open.
Applications due April 30, 2026.
Six Field Testing funding options:
1. EGS - electric power generation using EGS
2. Drilling for Next-Generation and Hydrothermal Resource Exploration, Characterization, and Confirmation - reservoir depth resource exploration, characterization, and confirmation well(s) to gather data
3. Closed-Loop, Drilling Required - electric power generation using CLG
4. Closed-Loop, No Drilling Required - electric power generation using CLG, existing wells (workover operations allowed)
5. Super-Hot/Supercritical - EGS or CLG with superhot/supercritical temperatures (375°C / 700°F)
6. Direct Use/Thermal - EGS or CLG for direct thermal use (not electric power generation)
Tribal Project Funding
The DOE Office of Indian Energy (IE) announced a $50 million funding opportunity to promote energy solutions for Tribal communities, with CHP systems mentioned. Applications due July 24, 2026.
Case Study: Colorado
Colorado state agencies are partnering with Gradient Geothermal to evaluate orphaned oil and gas wells; projects may reduce emissions and create local jobs by repurposing wells for geothermal energy production. The Colorado project will release a final report outlining technical findings, project recommendations, and policy guidance.
Geothermal Re-Use
Considering geothermal re-use? Given the temperatures and stresses of thermal cycling, addressing subsurface integrity is essential. BioSqueeze is the leader in biosafe well solutions, ensuring or restoring well integrity across the U.S. and Canada. Contact us with your well issues for a complimentary evaluation.