Next-Generation Geothermal: Considerations and Opportunities for Responsible Development

The document examines next-generation geothermal technologies—including enhanced geothermal systems, closed-loop, and superhot systems—which differ from conventional methods by drilling into hot rocks lacking natural fluid or permeability. While these technologies offer potential for 24/7 clean electricity globally and in the United States, their commercialization requires cost reductions, the mitigation of environmental risks, and the resolution of financing and permitting barriers.

• Next-generation geothermal technologies, such as enhanced geothermal systems, closed-loop, and superhot systems, differ from conventional geothermal by drilling into hot rocks that lack sufficient permeability or naturally occurring fluid.
• Geothermal energy is capable of providing reliable, cost-effective, 24/7 clean electricity, which could be essential for reaching a 100 percent clean grid.
• The widespread deployment of next-generation geothermal in the United States and globally depends on continued cost reductions, the development of new techniques, the proactive management of environmental risks, and overcoming barriers related to permitting and high initial financing needs.

APA

World Resources Institute (n.d.). Next-Generation Geothermal: Considerations and Opportunities for Responsible Development. https://www.wri.org/research/next-generation-geothermal-considerations-and-opportunities-responsible-development

Chicago

World Resources Institute. Next-Generation Geothermal: Considerations and Opportunities for Responsible Development. n.d. https://www.wri.org/research/next-generation-geothermal-considerations-and-opportunities-responsible-development.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |author=World Resources Institute |title=Next-Generation Geothermal: Considerations and Opportunities for Responsible Development |url=https://www.wri.org/research/next-generation-geothermal-considerations-and-opportunities-responsible-development |access-date=17 August 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{worldresourcesinstitutendnextgeneration, author = {{World Resources Institute}}, title = {{Next-Generation Geothermal: Considerations and Opportunities for Responsible Development}}, institution = {World Resources Institute}, url = {https://www.wri.org/research/next-generation-geothermal-considerations-and-opportunities-responsible-development}, urldate = {2026-08-17}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }