Google’s new geothermal energy project is up and running

Steam rises from a geothermal power plant in the middle of a snow-covered desert. — *Google partnered with clean energy startup Fervo on a new geothermal project in Nevada that will send electricity to the grid that serves two of Google’s data centers.* | Image: Google

A first-of-its-kind geothermal project is now up and running in Nevada, where it will help power Google’s data centers with clean energy.

Google is partnering with startup Fervo, which has developed new technology for harnessing geothermal power. Since they’re using different tactics than traditional geothermal plants, it is a relatively small project with the capacity to generate 3.5 MW. For context, one megawatt is enough to meet the demand of roughly 750 homes. The project will feed electricity into the local grid that serves two of Google’s data centers outside of Las Vegas and Reno.

It’s part of Google’s plan to run on carbon pollution-free electricity around the clock by 2030. To reach that goal, it’ll have to get more sources of...

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