London: ABB and Sage Geosystems’ partnership showcases groundbreaking geopressured geothermal technology aimed at scaling sustainable power to meet soaring electricity demand driven by AI and data centres, with potential to provide 15% of global electricity growth by 2050.
As the world grapples with escalating electricity demands, particularly from burgeoning sectors such as data centres and artificial intelligence, the spotlight is increasingly turning to geothermal energy as a viable and sustainable alternative. The recent collaboration between ABB and Sage Geosystems, underscoring the importance of strategic partnerships, is a testament to the potential of geopressured geothermal systems to reshape the energy landscape.
Following the announcement of their alliance in February 2025, ABB has engaged in discussions highlighting how this partnership aims to leverage advanced technologies to scale up geothermal energy globally. Vijay Rengaraju, Global Industry Business Manager for Power Generation at ABB Energy Industries, reiterated the critical role geothermal can play in meeting future energy needs. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), geothermal energy, which currently constitutes a mere fraction of global electricity generation, could rise to fulfil up to 15% of the projected electricity demand growth by 2050—roughly equivalent to adding 800 GW of capacity.
Geothermal energy presents several advantages that position it favourably in the evolving energy market. Not only does it supply baseload and grid-stabilising power, but its minimal greenhouse gas emissions and versatility in applications—ranging from electricity generation to district heating and industrial uses—further bolster its appeal. This aligns with global decarbonisation efforts, particularly as sectors with significant energy demands increasingly seek reliable, low-carbon energy sources.
However, the path to scaling geothermal energy is not without challenges. Traditional misconceptions cast geothermal as a niche player, but groundbreaking technologies are beginning to redefine this narrative. Innovations such as geopressured systems, which extract thermal energy alongside pressure-driven flow, exemplify a new frontier in geothermal development, particularly in sedimentary basins. These advancements, combined with expertise transfer from oil and gas and power sectors, highlight the transformative potential of strategic partnerships.
Moreover, pivotal to the success of geothermal energy is the collaborative spirit emerging in the industry. The partnership between ABB and Sage Geosystems, for instance, focuses not just on equipment supply but also on the integration of automation, electrification, and digital tools into geothermal sites. This highlights a broader trend where technology from various sectors—such as subsurface analysis and industrial automation—is being adapted to meet geothermal’s unique requirements.
As we move towards a more digital-driven energy landscape, the integration of artificial intelligence and digital twins in geothermal operations will be crucial. Such tools not only enhance efficiency but also optimise resource management, positioning geothermal energy as a more attractive option compared to intermittent sources like wind and solar.
Furthermore, the growing interest from major tech firms—prompted in part by the urgent energy demands of AI—demonstrates a shift in perception. Companies like Google and Meta are increasingly exploring partnerships with geothermal startups, recognising the reliability of geothermal energy over traditional natural gas options. This cooperative approach, however, is dependent on a supportive policy environment, along with significant public and private investments to catalyse technological advancements.
Despite the challenges, the consensus within the industry is one of cautious optimism. As Rengaraju aptly put it, “The new energy future will not build itself.” Thus, a combined effort—embracing partnerships, technological innovation, and stable policy frameworks—appears essential to unlocking the full potential of geothermal energy.
In a world striving for energy sustainability, the trajectory of geothermal energy is promising, transitioning from a niche resource to a pivotal player in the global energy mix. With strategic collaborations at the forefront, the potential for geothermal to contribute significantly to electricity supply by 2050 looks more tangible than ever.
Source: Noah Wire Services
