Mazama Energy secures DOE grant for superhot rock geothermal project in Oregon

Mazama Energy, Inc. has received a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Geothermal Technologies Office, under the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, to develop a cutting-edge superhot rock enhanced geothermal system (SHR EGS). The ambitious project will take place on the western flank of Newberry Volcano in Oregon and is poised to transform how geothermal energy is harnessed for large-scale, carbon-free power generation.

Geothermal energy is widely recognized as a renewable and sustainable energy source that harvests heat from beneath the earth’s surface. Conventional geothermal systems are typically dependent on naturally occurring underground water reservoirs to extract this heat. However, Mazama Energy is breaking new ground by addressing the limitations of conventional systems through SHR EGS technology, a process that creates artificial reservoirs capable of capturing heat from subsurface formations exceeding 374°C (705°F).

The SHR EGS approach represents a leap forward in geothermal energy technology. While traditional and existing enhanced geothermal systems operate at temperatures around 200°C, SHR EGS taps into extreme heat conditions, enabling it to produce five to ten times more electricity. This efficiency not only increases power generation but also makes the system highly scalable and environmentally friendly, with negligible carbon dioxide emissions.

Mazama Energy, formed by AltaRock Energy and Blade Energy Partners, is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation due to its expertise in advanced geothermal technologies. Preliminary testing began in October 2024, focusing on evaluating the feasibility of several advanced geothermal techniques at one of the Newberry Volcano’s existing wells. These preparatory operations are scheduled to conclude in February 2025, setting the stage for the SHR EGS demonstration to officially commence the following month.

This DOE-funded initiative is a collaborative effort involving top-tier research institutions, including Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the University of Oklahoma, and Oregon State University. These partners are expected to contribute critical expertise to refine the SHR EGS technology, marking an essential step toward its commercial implementation.

Industry experts view SHR EGS as a potential game-changer in renewable energy. By unlocking the immense potential of superhot rocks, Mazama Energy could address a significant portion of global energy demand while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The scalability of SHR EGS technology also positions it as a key solution for future energy needs, particularly in regions where conventional geothermal systems are not viable.

The SHR EGS demonstration at Newberry Volcano highlights the importance of innovation in tackling climate challenges. By proving the commercial viability of SHR EGS, Mazama Energy aims to establish a blueprint for harnessing geothermal energy more efficiently, opening doors to widespread adoption of this groundbreaking technology.