Next-Generation Geothermal Field Tests and Geothermal Resource Characterization and Confirmation

The Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Geothermal (OG) has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) DE-FOA-0003472 for "Next-Generation Geothermal Field Tests and Geothermal Resource Characterization and Confirmation." This NOFO, structured in two parts, aims to advance geothermal energy through field-scale tests and exploration drilling for electrical power production. Key dates include a Letter of Intent deadline of March 27, 2026, and an Application Deadline of April 30, 2026. Total available funding is approximately $171,500,000 across fiscal years 2023-2025. The NOFO details two open topic areas: Topic Area 1 for EGS Field Tests (up to $100,000,000, 4-10 awards of $10M-$25M each) and Topic Area 6 for Drilling for Next-Generation and Hydrothermal Resource Exploration, Characterization, and Confirmation ($71,500,000 in FY2025, 8-18 awards of $4M-$8M each). Other topic areas (Closed-Loop Field Tests, Super-Hot/Supercritical Field Tests, Direct Use/Thermal Field Tests) are currently closed. Eligible applicants include various domestic entities and, with waivers, foreign entities, with a minimum 20% cost share required. The program emphasizes technical, organizational, and market learning, stakeholder engagement, workforce development, and multidisciplinary teaming. All work must be performed in the United States.

The Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Geothermal (OG) has issued Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Number DE-FOA-0003472, titled "Next-Generation Geothermal Field Tests and Geothermal Resource Characterization and Confirmation." This NOFO seeks to advance geothermal energy by funding field-scale tests for next-generation development technologies and exploration drilling for resource characterization. The initiative aims to de-risk technologies, identify challenges, and establish best practices to overcome the "valley of death" in technology commercialization. The NOFO has an approximate total funding of $171,500,000 across FY2023, FY2024, and FY2025, with a minimum 20% cost share required. Eligible applicants include domestic entities such as institutions of higher education, for-profit and non-profit organizations, state and local government entities, and Indian Tribes. Foreign entities may apply with an explicit waiver. Key dates include a Letter of Intent deadline of March 27, 2026, and an Application Deadline of April 30, 2026. The NOFO details specific requirements for EGS field tests (Topic Area 1) and drilling for resource exploration (Topic Area 6), with other topic areas currently closed. Projects must be performed in the United States and emphasize technical, organizational, and market learning, stakeholder engagement, and workforce development.