Department of Energy Announces Geothermal Manufacturing Prize Finalists
Teams Use 3D Printing to Address Geothermal’s Toughest
Manufacturing Challenges
Today, the U.S. Department of Energy announced the finalists of the American-Made Geothermal Manufacturing Prize, a competition designed to advance geothermal energy technology using 3D printing. Harsh geothermal environmental conditions—high temperatures, high rock strength, and corrosive working fluids—require specialized tools and materials with elevated manufacturing costs. Manufacturing innovations can address some of these fundamental challenges and help lower costs, enhance production, and increase the reliability of geothermal energy, bringing affordable power to more Americans.
“This prize will incentivize entrepreneurs and innovators to develop more cost-effective methods and materials to overcome the challenges of working in a geothermal environment,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Kelly Speakes-Backman, who announced the finalists at a live event. “Our focus on rapid prototype development will accelerate geothermal innovation, resulting in more geothermal power generation across the nation, and a faster transition to a clean energy economy.”
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