Creating a Global Research Capability Directory to Aid Advancements in Higher-Enthalpy Geothermal

Abstract

Next-generation geothermal has the potential to provide reliable, scalable, and clean baseload power globally. However, technological advancements, such as those that enable access to higher-enthalpy resources, are needed for these systems to reach their full potential as a cost-competitive bankable technology. Numerous research groups and industries worldwide are conducting research that can help with the development of higher-enthalpy geothermal systems, but there is no comprehensive overview of where these critical laboratory and modeling capabilities exist. Furthermore, many other research groups and industries possess relevant expertise in related fields that could accelerate the development of higher-enthalpy geothermal but may not realize its applicability to this technology. To address this challenge, we have conducted a first of its kind comprehensive global survey of research relevant to advancing higher-enthalpy geothermal capabilities, focusing on five key technical domains: resource characterization and/or modelling, drilling and well design, monitoring and instrumentation, reservoir creation and management, and surface engineering and power generation. Our survey was first distributed in Spring 2025, and we have begun to catalogue over 120 responses. The detailed survey captures specific equipment capabilities, including their maximum pressure and temperature, numerical modeling tools, and current as well as planned research activities. At the time of paper submission, we are actively collecting and validating survey responses and plan to finalize the development of the directory in mid-2026. The directory will include both a detailed overview of research capabilities by institutions around the world as well as country profiles. The directory will be continuously updated as we receive new survey responses, creating a one-stop shop for global research capabilities for higher-enthalpy geothermal development. It is hoped that this tool will create the conditions for collaboration and knowledge exchange that will accelerate the deployment of higher enthalpy geothermal while creating global visibility into research laboratories and gaps in capabilities. It is also expected that the benefits to higher-enthalpy geothermal development through cost reductions, efficiency gains, and technology improvements will aide in the advancement of lower enthalpy geothermal systems.