# Geothermal energy expansion for AI data centers

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/geothermal-energy-expansion-for-ai-data-centers
> Updated: 2026-08-27T12:56:00.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

The geothermal energy sector in the Western United States is expanding through the development of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) to meet the high electricity demands of artificial intelligence data centers.

Ormat Technologies is pivoting toward EGS, which uses hydraulic fracturing and oil-drilling techniques to access heat from deep rock formations. The company has secured agreements to provide power to Google in Nevada and has partnered with firms like SLB and Sage Geosystems for pilot projects. Ormat is also expanding its footprint in New Mexico and has introduced the Ormega100 modular unit to support these applications.

In Utah, engineers at the Department of Energy’s FORGE project—a government-backed research site—are conducting tests using deep-well drilling to circulate water through hot, fractured rock. This research aims to determine if oil-and-gas fracking techniques can create a reliable, widespread source of electricity beyond traditional geological hotspots. Fervo Energy, which is developing a project near the Utah site, has already secured a deal involving Alphabet.

The rapid growth of these facilities has triggered legislative debate. Utah lawmakers are weighing the economic benefits, such as property tax revenue, against potential strains on public resources, including increased demand for water and electricity, infrastructure costs, and concerns regarding noise and air quality.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-27: Utah tests enhanced geothermal technology to power AI data centers

Utah is testing enhanced geothermal technology using fracking techniques to meet the rising power demands of AI data centers, amid legislative debates over infrastructure and resource costs.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/utah-tests-geothermal-energy-to-power-ai-data-centers

### 2026-08-22: Ormat Technologies pivots to AI-driven geothermal power via EGS

Ormat Technologies is pivoting to Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) to provide 24/7 clean power for AI data centers, securing contracts with Google and Switch to support growing energy demands.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ormat-technologies-pivots-to-ai-driven-geothermal-power-via-egs

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Cite as: Geothermal energy expansion for AI data centers. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/geothermal-energy-expansion-for-ai-data-centers