Las major technology companies in the United States They are increasingly focused on finding clean energy sources that support their activities and contribute to reducing their CO2 emissions.
In this context, Meta, the giant behind Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, has committed to reducing its ecological footprint through the use of geothermal energy, a less explored renewable source, but with great potential.
This decision is intended not only to reduce the impact of the company’s activities, but also to ensure a stable and continuous electricity supply to meet the growing demand for technological resources, especially to support artificial intelligence and constant operation of their platforms.
An innovative alliance with Sage Geosystems
Meta has entered into an alliance with Sage Geosystemsa pioneering startup in advanced geothermal technology, to develop an innovative system that harnesses the Earth’s deep heat and converts it into clean electricity.
This partnership aims to create a sustainable, emission-free energy source, a crucial step towards decarbonization. The initial goal of this project is to generate up to 150 megawatts (MW) of energy, enough to power approximately 70,000 homes, and to establish an infrastructure that will enable a transition to a more sustainable energy model.
One of the key components of this endeavor is the Geopressurized Geothermal System (GGS). technology developed by Sage Geosystems that can generate energy from deep fractures in the Earth’s crust. By drilling wells thousands of feet deep, water is injected which, when heated, produces steam that can move turbines to generate electricity.
This approach goes beyond traditional methods of harnessing geothermal energy, which are limited to geographic areas with natural resources such as hot fluid reservoirs. The novelty of this technology lies in its ability to create these resources artificially, which opens up new possibilities in places previously infeasible for geothermal projects.
The value of geothermal energy for Meta activities
Urvi Parekh, Director of renewable energy at Metaemphasized that a continuous power supply is essential for the operation of the company’s data centers.
While energy sources such as solar and wind energy depend on climate factors and seasonal variations, geothermal energy can generate electricity in a constant and predictable way, which is crucial for the operations of a company whose infrastructure must always remain active, without interruptions.
Be next to collaboration with Sage GeosystemsMeta is supported by the US Department of Energy, which has expressed interest in initiatives that promote renewable and robust energy sources.
Challenges and opportunities on the road to a sustainable future
Despite the promise that geothermal energy offers, there are technical and economic challenges that could hinder its adoption. The initial costs for developing these types of projects are high, partly due to the complexity of deep drilling and obtaining permits.
According to Sage Geosystems estimates, the first phase of this project will be required an estimated investment of $50 million. However, Meta’s involvement could mark a turning point in the clean energy sector.
The company has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability, pledging in 2020 to achieve net zero emissions by the end of the decade. In addition, Meta has contracted more than 12,000 MW of sustainable energy projects to date.
Meta, in collaboration with Sage Geosystemsthis change leads to a greener and more sustainable future. These advances will not only transform the global energy landscape, but will also influence how major technology companies embrace renewable energy and operate in a greener way.