Geothermal energy could provide value to U.S. institutions in the Indo-Pacific region, according to an article by Foreign Policy, as it offers stable power that can boost energy security and geoeconomic interests.
The article highlights that “all modern energy systems need baseload power,” and that de-risking geothermal technology is essential in driving large-scale development of this always-on energy source.
By tapping into these sources, the U.S. can reduce its dependence on diesel fuel imports and enhance energy resilience in areas like Alaska and the Pacific Rim. It could even support other essential needs in these regions, such as food cultivation in greenhouses, seawater desalination, and potentially even green hydrogen production.
Furthermore, Foreign Policy notes that geothermal energy has significant global implications. The successful acceleration of geothermal projects in the Indo-Pacific could serve as a model for U.S. firms to expand into other geothermal-rich regions such as Latin America and East Africa. These regions hold vast potential for gigawatt-scale geothermal power generation, which could contribute to global energy security.
Development in the Aleutians, including the Makushin Volcano project, could turn Dutch Harbor into a major energy hub, with potential expansion to Adak and Shemya. However, with growing competition in the region, the article argues that there is a sense of urgency to develop this technology sooner rather than later.
Eavor’s advanced geothermal systems use cutting-edge drilling technologies that make geothermal power viable in nearly any region on Earth. This method draws on expertise from the oil and gas industry, which the article attributes to being able to minimize financial risks and allow modular project expansion. This will make it easier to scale geothermal projects.
With the help of government-backed initiatives, such as grants or low-interest loans, geothermal energy could be scaled up to advance U.S. energy security goals, enhance regional stability, and support broader geoeconomic strategy.
