How Hot Rocks Could Steady America’s Clean Grid

Mazama’s 331°C EGS pilot and new SLB-Ormat collaboration boost momentum for firm clean power

14 Nov 2025

A fresh wave of interest is building around superhot geothermal energy as new field results in Oregon highlight meaningful progress toward future firm clean power. At the Newberry site, Mazama Energy has reported a bottom-hole temperature of 331°C (629°F) in an enhanced geothermal system (EGS) pilot well. While still in the demonstration phase, this milestone has caught the attention of policymakers, utilities, and investors who see it as a promising early indicator of what next-generation geothermal could achieve.

Mazama’s temperature result doesn’t represent a commercial facility but ranks among the hottest known measurements for an EGS effort to date. This milestone strengthens the case that superhot rock resources, at the proof-of-concept level, may eventually be accessible beyond traditional geothermal hotspots. For an industry long constrained by drilling costs and location limits, the pilot result offers a meaningful step forward. As Mazama has pointed out, the market is increasingly looking for reliable clean power that can compete on cost and operate around the clock.

Momentum is also growing from broader industry collaboration. SLB and Ormat Technologies recently announced a partnership to accelerate enhanced geothermal systems by applying advanced drilling and subsurface methods proven in other energy sectors. Their involvement highlights the growing convergence of legacy drilling expertise and emerging clean energy technologies.

Analysts note that these developments come as states strengthen clean energy mandates and major technology companies ramp up their search for stable, low-carbon power to support data and AI growth. While superhot geothermal remains in the early stages of commercialization, its potential for continuous energy output offers a significant strategic advantage over intermittent renewables. However, key challenges remain, including demonstrating long-term reservoir performance, managing seismic risks, and reducing development costs.

For now, the Newberry project stands as a pilot-level achievement rather than a commercial deployment. Nonetheless, the precise 331°C result represents meaningful technical progress. If continued research and demonstration success follow, superhot EGS could become an increasingly significant contributor to the US clean energy landscape, helping to shape a more resilient and reliable grid in the years ahead.