Meta taps geothermal energy to power its data centers

As data centers consume more power, Meta and Google are turning to enhanced geothermal energy to meet their clean energy needs.

Brad Plumer reports for The New York Times.

In short:

• Meta partnered with Sage Geosystems to develop a 150-megawatt geothermal energy project in Texas using advanced fracking techniques.
• Google is collaborating with Fervo Energy on a 5-megawatt pilot geothermal plant in Nevada, with plans for larger projects in Utah.
• Enhanced geothermal is gaining traction as a reliable, emissions-free energy source that can complement wind and solar power.

Key quote:

“It’s basically the same fracking technology. The difference is that we’re going after clean heat instead of hydrocarbons.”

— Cindy Taff, CEO of Sage Geosystems

Why this matters:

Enhanced geothermal could provide a consistent, clean energy source for power-hungry data centers. Its success may help reduce the tech industry’s reliance on fossil fuels.

Related:

• New geothermal systems may be key to sustainable buildings
• Networked geothermal systems could transform urban energy use
• Massachusetts town pilots geothermal heating and cooling system