With new technology and exciting opportunities to scale up energy production, the geothermal effort has the potential to change the energy landscape in Texas and create a more reliable pathway to a cleaner, greener grid. While Austin Energy is already the most environmentally sustainable utility in Texas, far exceeding statewide and national averages for carbon-free energy, it always seeks new ways to provide clean, reliable energy to the grid.
“Geothermal technology for energy generation holds great promise and we are excited to advance innovation in this space," said Mike Enger, Austin Energy’s Vice President for Energy Markets and Resource Planning. “This pilot will allow us to learn about any unforeseen challenges and better understand if those challenges can be overcome safely and economically. Based on what we learn, in the future, we may be able to scale up geothermal to further diversify our clean, renewable supply portfolio.”
The new 5 MW geothermal project works by tapping into heat stored deep underground to produce electricity. This system runs cleanly and continuously, providing reliable, carbon-free energy without using fossil fuel. As part of its Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan to 2035, Austin Energy worked with stakeholders to understand how to reflect the community’s priorities of reliability, affordability and environmental sustainability. Geothermal energy production is a valuable tool in the utility’s efforts to strengthen the grid and keep costs down while continuing toward a greener future.
“Geothermal energy has been an interest of mine since I began as a Council Member and engaged in Austin Energy’s carbon-free energy generation planning and the reliability of the electric grid. I am also enthusiastic about the types of geothermal technology used for heating and cooling in the District 1 community at Whisper Valley,” said Austin City Council Member Natasha Harper-Madison (District 1). “Our electric utility focuses on innovative solutions to our pressing energy needs and it’s exciting to consider the possibilities geothermal energy will have for Austin and the state.”
Austin Energy’s Geothermal Partner
Exceed Energy Inc. is a geothermal company dedicated to generating renewable baseload electricity through the use of supercritical carbon-dioxide (sCO₂) technology. By utilizing the Earth’s natural heat sources, Exceed Energy is pioneering efficient and sustainable baseload power solutions to help build a low-carbon future.
