Introduction
In a monumental leap towards sustainable energy, we are thrilled to announce the successful operation of our groundbreaking geothermal power project in Nevada. Partnering with the innovative clean-energy startup, Fervo, we have achieved a significant milestone in our commitment to providing 24/7 carbon-free energy across all our data centers and office campuses globally by 2030.
Advancing Clean Electricity Technologies
The Promise of Enhanced Geothermal Energy
To combat climate change effectively, a swift transition to clean energy on a planetary scale is imperative. Enhanced geothermal energy emerges as a promising solution, utilizing cutting-edge techniques to harness the Earth’s consistent heat without relying on fossil fuels. This innovative approach not only contributes to carbon-free energy but also complements variable renewables like solar and wind, bringing us closer to our goal of continuous carbon-free energy operation.
Unprecedented Partnership with Fervo
Two years ago, we embarked on a pioneering journey with Fervo, entering into the world’s first corporate agreement for the development of an enhanced geothermal power project. Today, we proudly announce the project’s operational status, with carbon-free electricity seamlessly flowing into the local grid powering our Nevada data centers.
Tapping into Geothermal Potential
Geothermal Energy’s Vast Capacity
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, geothermal energy has the potential to offer up to 120 gigawatts of reliable, flexible generation capacity in the U.S. by 2050. This could account for over 16% of the country’s anticipated electricity needs. Geothermal stands out as a viable clean energy option, particularly in regions where deploying other renewable sources proves challenging, such as the Asia Pacific region.
Fervo’s Technological Innovations
Acknowledging the limitations of traditional geothermal technologies, our partnership with Fervo introduced pioneering drilling techniques borrowed from the oil and gas industry. By digging two horizontal wells and installing fiber-optic cables to capture real-time data on flow, temperature, and system performance, Fervo has enabled us to tap into subsurface heat that was once difficult to access. The result is a geothermal plant that produces continuous carbon-free energy, utilizing less land compared to alternative clean energy sources.
Building Progress for a Sustainable Future
Expanding Geothermal Horizons
While our initial geothermal endeavor is in Nevada, the potential for geothermal energy expansion is vast. Recently, we announced a strategic partnership with Project InnerSpace, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to the global development of geothermal energy. This collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of geothermal energy, marking a pivotal step towards a cleaner and sustainable energy future.
Advocacy and Collaboration
Our commitment extends beyond individual projects; it encompasses a broader vision of transforming the global power sector. Encouraged by our progress, we welcome initiatives like the U.S. federal government’s commitment to 24/7 carbon-free energy goals. Collaborating with partners, we actively advocate for policies that propel the clean energy transition, fostering a resilient, secure, cost-effective, and fully decarbonized electricity grid globally.
In unity, we can expedite the implementation of advanced clean energy technologies, mitigate climate change, and pave the way for a prosperous, carbon-free future for all.
