State Energy Offices are exploring ways to advance geothermal power projects through policy action, permitting reform, and planning support. Traditionally, geothermal plants have been limited to regions with accessible geothermal resources near tectonic plate boundaries. In the United States, utility-scale geothermal power plants are currently operating in seven states – California, Hawaii, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, and Utah. However, enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) use advanced drilling, fluid injection, and reservoir stimulation technologies to unlock heat from deep, dry rock formations in areas that lack natural permeability. This innovation expands the potential of geothermal power generation across much of the United States, transforming it from a regionally constrained resource into a scalable, firm energy option that can support energy and grid reliability goals.
Stay tuned for resources and updates from NASEO.