sage geosystems
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.
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 fracking-inspired technology could revolutionize renewable energy storage
Three Houston startups are using a novel approach similar to fracking to create underground storage for renewable energy, potentially reducing reliance on lithium batteries.
In short:
- Sage Geosystems is developing the first commercial geothermal energy storage system in South Texas, using pressurized water in underground caverns.
- The technique involves injecting water underground, which is then released to generate power during peak demand, offering up to 10 hours of energy storage.
- This system, while still in early stages, could provide an alternative to lithium-ion batteries, which currently dominate the energy storage market.
Key quote:
"There is a growing need for technologies that can adjust generation levels to maintain grid stability. The technology Sage is developing has the potential to be a game changer."
— Yiyi Zhou, an energy analyst at BloombergNEF
Why this matters:
Renewable energy storage is crucial for maintaining grid stability as solar and wind power become more prevalent. This technology could diversify storage options, reducing dependency on scarce lithium resources.
Related: Energy storage surge reshapes US electricity landscape