Geothermal Energy: An Eco-Friendly Solution for Future Data ...
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to grow rapidly, the demand for reliable and sustainable digital infrastructure is increasing. One of the biggest challenges in this industry is the massive energy consumption of data centers. According to the latest findings from Rhodium Group, an independent research institute based in the United States, geothermal energy has significant potential to become a primary solution for powering data centers in the future. 
According to a report cited by TechCrunch on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, advanced geothermal technology could supply nearly two-thirds of the new data center energy demand in the United States by 2030. With more optimal utilization of geothermal energy, power capacity could increase from 4 gigawatts to 16 gigawatts without relying on conventional power plants.
The report also highlights the potential of geothermal energy in the western United States, where geothermal resources are more abundant. If managed properly, these energy sources could meet 100 percent of the power demand for new data centers without requiring additional power plant infrastructure. For example, Phoenix, the capital of Arizona, is projected to increase data center capacity by up to 3.8 gigawatts simply by optimizing geothermal energy utilization.
Compared to other renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, which depend on weather conditions, geothermal energy offers the advantage of providing stable and consistent power around the clock. Historically, the use of geothermal energy has been limited to areas with natural heat sources. However, with advanced geothermal technology (Enhanced Geothermal Systems/EGS), energy extraction can be conducted at greater depths and over a wider area, generating significantly more electricity.
With this approach, operators can access more energy and optimize the number of geothermal wells within a single site. According to estimates from the U.S. Department of Energy, the potential clean energy output from advanced geothermal techniques could reach 90 gigawatts, far exceeding the currently available capacity.
In addition to its high capacity, geothermal energy is also more cost-effective than other energy sources. The Rhodium Group report emphasizes that geothermal power has very low operational costs, making it a competitive alternative for data centers that currently rely on fossil fuel-based energy.
Amid global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to clean energy, geothermal power presents a strategic solution for the data center industry. With cost efficiency and high energy availability, geothermal energy not only promises sustainability but also has the potential to reshape the global digital infrastructure landscape.
The utilization of geothermal energy for data centers in the AI era is a strategic step toward supporting the transition to clean energy. With its large power capacity, lower operational costs, and minimal environmental impact compared to fossil fuels, geothermal energy is a highly promising alternative. In the future, optimizing geothermal technology could be the key to providing reliable and sustainable energy for the growth of global digital infrastructure.
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