Geothermal Energy Gains Momentum in National Security

The United States Department of Defense (DoD) has taken a significant step toward integrating geothermal energy solutions across military installations, designating eleven American companies as “Awardable” under the U.S. Air Force’s geothermal initiative. This recognition, facilitated through the Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace, streamlines procurement for the rapid deployment of cutting-edge geothermal technologies to enhance national security and military preparedness.

Who Made the Cut?

The following companies have been granted "Awardable" status, positioning them as key providers of geothermal energy solutions across all branches of the U.S. military:

• Addis Energy
• Baker Hughes
• EarthBridge Energy
• Energy Systems Group (ESG) / GE Vernova and partners
• GreenFire Energy Inc.
• Power Planet, Inc.
• Quaise Energy
• Sage Geosystems Inc.
• SLB Technology Corporation
• TLS GEOTHERMICS
• XGS Energy

This designation not only facilitates procurement but also allows these companies to pursue geothermal energy projects with the Air Force, Army, Navy, and other DoD branches without additional competition.

How These Companies Were Selected

The selection process was conducted through the Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace, a digital ecosystem designed to accelerate innovative solutions for the DoD. The U.S. Air Force issued a solicitation seeking novel geothermal technologies capable of providing reliable, renewable energy to military installations.

Companies were evaluated based on the following:

• Technical Feasibility: The ability to deliver scalable geothermal solutions.
• Energy Resilience Contributions: Ensuring uninterrupted power supply for critical military operations.
• Scalability and Implementation: Readiness to deploy across various military bases.
• Alignment with DoD Objectives: Supporting national security and sustainability mandates.

These criteria enabled the DoD to identify the most effective and innovative geothermal providers to support its long-term energy goals.

A Strategic Energy Shift for the U.S. Military

The U.S. Air Force leveraged the Tradewinds solicitation process to engage with cutting-edge companies capable of deploying next-generation geothermal technologies at military bases—without relying on taxpayer dollars. This initiative aligns with the federal government's broader energy security strategy, emphasizing resilience, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.

Key Projects and Industry Momentum

• Sage Geosystems Inc.: Sage Geosystems has been selected to develop utility-scale geothermal power plants for U.S. military installations. The company is currently working on a demonstration project in Texas, aiming to provide continuous, reliable electricity to military bases, ensuring operational stability during grid disruptions.
• GreenFire Energy Inc.: Recognized for its innovative geothermal technologies, GreenFire Energy focuses on transforming underutilized geothermal fields into productive energy assets. This effort supports the DoD's objectives for energy resilience and sustainable baseload power generation.
• Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) Expansion: The DoD has expanded its geothermal energy investments, partnering with companies like Fervo Energy and SLB Technology Corporation to deploy advanced geothermal solutions at key military bases in Alaska, California, Idaho, Nevada, and Texas.

Future Opportunities for Geothermal Development

While these eleven companies have secured "Awardable” status, the DoD remains open to additional geothermal partnerships. The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and the Air Force Office of Energy Assurance (OEA) continue to seek innovative solutions through Requests for Information (RFIs) and new solicitations. Companies interested in future geothermal energy projects should monitor DoD procurement channels and be prepared to demonstrate the following:

• Advanced geothermal technologies that enhance military energy resilience.
• Cost-effective, scalable solutions for various base locations.
• Proven records of successful geothermal development and implementation.

Geothermal Energy as a National Security Imperative

This geothermal initiative is a direct response to the administration’s call to "Unleash American Energy" and ensure energy dominance. With increasing concerns over grid stability and energy security, geothermal energy offers a consistent, renewable, and independent power source for critical military operations.

By integrating geothermal technologies, the DoD aims to enhance energy resilience, reduce reliance on external power grids, and ensure the uninterrupted functionality of military installations. The ongoing collaboration between the U.S. government and these innovative companies highlights the essential role of sustainable energy in strengthening national security.