Mission, Vision, and Goals

Geothermal resources are domestic, baseload, and produce virtually no greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. They have the potential to make a significant contribution to our nation's energy security, environmental and economic goals.

Our Mission

To research, develop, and validate cost-competitive technologies and tools to accelerate the growth of geothermal energy in the United States.

Our Vision

Geothermal is a major contributor to the nation's baseload energy supply.

Our Goals

Accelerate Near Term Hydrothermal Growth

Lower hydrothermal exploration risks and costs
Lower hydrothermal levelized cost of electricity to 6 cents/kWh by 2020
Accelerate development of 30 GWe of undiscovered hydrothermal resources

Secure the Future with Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS)

Demonstrate 5 MW reservoir creation by 2020
Lower EGS levelized cost of electricity to 6 cents/kWh by 2030

Our Strategy

Increase Speed of Innovation

Industry alone cannot advance innovation at the rate required to achieve development and power generation targets.
EERE investment is critical to achieving technology step-change and a greater geothermal percentage of the renewable energy mix.

Reduce Exploration and Development Risk and Cost

Develop tools and technologies which can both lower cost, and identify new resources.
Invest in the discovery of blind resources, and establish commercial pathway for EGS.

National Geothermal Data System and Geothermal Data Repository Benefits Entire U.S. Geothermal Industry

One-stop source for all existing public data.
Allows more rapid evolution from concept, to exploration and development.

Leverage International Cooperation and Coordination

Accelerate U.S. technology deployment (e.g. Enhanced Geothermal Systems).
Accelerate commercial timelines using leverage from international projects.

Conduct Technology and System Validation to Increase Investor Confidence

Will result in increased and more favorable funding to private sector.