ABB and Sage Geosystems have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop geothermal energy generation and storage solutions that will harness the earth’s heat to produce emissions-free electricity . The collaboration aims to strengthen baseload energy supply with a stable, renewable source, marking a step forward in the transition to a more sustainable future.
Geothermal energy as a reliable alternative
The deal will see ABB support Sage’s commitment to Meta , the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, to supply up to 150 MW of geothermal electricity at a location east of the Rocky Mountains in the US. The first phase of the project is expected to be operational in 2027.
Geothermal energy is distinguished by its ability to generate electricity 24 hours a day, regardless of weather conditions . Using geopressurized geothermal systems (GGS) technology, Sage Geosystems pumps fluids into underground reservoirs, heats them to over 150°C, and releases them to the surface to power turbines that generate energy.
Geothermal energy and energy storage: a strategic combination
ABB will explore the integration of its automation, electrification and digitalization technology in geothermal plants globally. Potential contributions include distributed control systems (DCS), advanced electrical architecture and digital solutions focused on process optimization and cybersecurity .
In order to harness the potential of geothermal energy and enable a low-carbon society, we need cross-sector collaboration to drive advances in technology.
said Per Erik Holsten, President of ABB.
Sage Geosystems is also considering integrating its energy storage technology with intermittent renewable sources such as solar and wind. This system would allow for the absorption of surplus energy and release it during times of high demand, consolidating a more stable and resilient electrical grid.
The potential for geothermal energy is vast: in the US alone, it is estimated that natural thermal resources could power more than 65 million homes . Moreover, the geothermal market is projected to continue to grow, from 16.8 GW of installed capacity today to more than 110 GW by 2050, with planned investments exceeding $120 billion in the coming years.
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Source and photo: ABB
