Meta has partnered with startup XGS Energy to explore the development of a 150 megawatt geothermal power plant in New Mexico. This agreement represents a growing trend among tech companies to invest in geothermal energy, recognized for its potential to provide constant, emission-free electricity. Notably, while XGS is going for a closed loop system to minimize water loss, other companies are leaning towards open loop designs. The deal adds to a series of recent moves within the geothermal sector, positioning it as a viable solution to future energy demands.
Recently, tech companies, data center developers, and investors have been warming to the technology. Geothermal can generate electricity around the clock without producing emissions, an appealing combination to hyperscalers.
XGS Energy, on the other hand, sends water through a closed loop inside a sealed well, minimizing water loss. It also injects a proprietary mud around the outside of the well casing to help transfer more heat from the rocks to the loop.
The partnership between XGS Energy and Meta is the latest in a string of deals racked up by geothermal startups.
Many geothermal startups are pursuing open loop designs, where they inject water down one well and let it flow through cracks in the rock before extracting it from another well.
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