Next-Generation Geothermal Field Tests and Geothermal Resource Characterization and Confirmation
Last verified by NonDilute: 2026-04-29. Official notice and agency instructions control.
If you have a novel geothermal technology or can characterize a promising geothermal site, this $1–25M DOE program funds real-world field validation to prove commercial viability.
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What this is
The Golden Field Office is seeking applications for field-scale geothermal R&D projects that test next-generation development technologies at depths and temperatures suitable for commercial deployment. Funding supports both hands-on testing of novel approaches in real-world conditions and exploration drilling to confirm geothermal resource potential. Awards range from $1–25 million and are designed to generate learning-by-doing data that will inform DOE's future geothermal development priorities and site selection decisions, aligned with the GeoVision Roadmap.
Who can apply
Open to any entity type—companies, universities, non-profits, and individuals are all eligible. No size restrictions stated. The applicant must be capable of conducting field-scale geothermal testing or exploration drilling aligned with DOE's geothermal development roadmap.
Eligible applicant types
- Unrestricted (i.e., open to any type of entity above), subject to any clarification in text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility"
Full description — from the agency
This NOFO targets field-scale tests at depths and temperatures appropriate for full-scale project development. These tests are intended to support research and development (R&D), testing, and evaluation of next-generation development technologies and approaches, and the applicability of those approaches in select real-world conditions. Additionally, this NOFO targets exploration drilling activities required to gather data to support the characterization and potential confirmation of promising next generation and hydrothermal prospects for electrical power production. These projects will directly support the DOE’s emphasis on learning-by-doing and helping to identify and focus R&D priorities. In the end, the knowledge gained from these tests will support future funding decisions regarding the development approach and the location for development. Strategic goals for this NOFO are derived from the GeoVision Roadmap, and GTO’s Multi-Year Program Plan (MYPP).
Topics: geothermal field testing · next-generation geothermal · exploration drilling · geothermal resource characterization · enhanced geothermal systems · DOE energy funding · geothermal power production
Public-source funding discovery only. This summary is generated from public agency data and may be incomplete or stale. NonDilute is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of any government agency. Official notices and agency instructions control. NonDilute does not determine eligibility, provide grant-writing advice, or guarantee funding.