Meta Teams Up with XGS Energy for Geothermal Power
Meta teamed up with XGS Energy to develop a 150 MW advanced geothermal plant in New Mexico. The phased project is on track to support AI-driven data centers by 2030. Moreover, the plan will feed clean, 24/7 power into the PNM grid, reducing carbon emissions and helping Meta meet its net-zero goals latitudemedia.com
In addition, state officials expect a $1 billion private investment, creating around 3,000 construction jobs and 100 long-term energy positions esgdive.com. Also, XGS’s closed-loop system avoids water use—ideal for arid New Mexico and aligning with sustainable energy standards governor.state.nm.us
Moreover, Meta’s Global Head of Energy, Urvi Parekh, said advanced geothermal can “support AI infrastructure development” and become a key power source as data needs surge tricityrecordnm.com
Details of the Geothermal Project
The collaboration aims to tap into the earth’s natural heat to generate clean, renewable energy. This project will significantly contribute to Meta‘s goal of powering its operations with 100% renewable energy.
Project Benefits
- Provides a substantial amount of clean energy.
- Reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
- Supports Meta‘s sustainability objectives.
XGS Energy’s Role
XGS Energy brings expertise in geothermal energy development to this partnership. They are responsible for the construction and operation of the geothermal power plant, ensuring its efficiency and reliability.
Geothermal Technology
How Geothermal Power Plants Work 🔥🌍
Geothermal plants tap heat from deep within the Earth. Engineers drill wells—often 1–2 miles deep—into hot-rock or hydrothermal reservoirs. Then steam or hot water rises to the surface under pressure archive.epa.gov
Next, the steam turns a turbine connected to a generator. This rotation produces electricity—just like in coal or nuclear plants, but without burning fuel nrel.govAfterward, the steam condenses back to water. It then returns underground to renew the reservoir .
There are three main plant types:
Binary-cycle uses lower-temperature water to heat a secondary fluid, which vaporizes and turns a turbine—ideal for cooler reservoirs and emits virtually zero air pollution reddit.com
Dry steam uses natural underground steam directly.
Flash steam brings hot water up; it depressurizes (“flashes”) to steam to power turbines.
Renewable Energy Commitment
Meta‘s investment in geothermal energy aligns with its broader strategy to promote renewable energy sources. The company has made significant strides in reducing its environmental impact through various sustainability initiatives.
