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Google and NV Energy Forge Geothermal Partnership to Power Nevada Data Centers

The core of this innovative partnership is the introduction of a new clean transition rate, also known as a 'Clean Transition Tariff' (CTT).

June 15, 2024. By Abha Rustagi

Google has announced a partnership with NV Energy to power its data centers and office campuses in Nevada using geothermal energy. The collaboration, a first-of-its-kind, aims to set a new standard for clean energy integration in the US energy market.

The core of this innovative partnership is the introduction of a new clean transition rate, also known as a 'Clean Transition Tariff' (CTT). This tariff will allow Google and other large energy consumers to meet their growing power needs cleanly and reliably. The proposal is currently under review by the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada and, if approved, could serve as a model for other states aiming to support their clean energy efforts.

NV Energy, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Energy, is spearheading this initiative by entering into a unique energy supply agreement with Google. Central to this agreement is the use of enhanced geothermal power. The utility has collaborated with Fervo Energy to develop 115 MW of new geothermal capacity, specifically for Google's energy needs. This move not only supports Google's goal of achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030 but also enhances the resilience and sustainability of the local power grid.

Doug Cannon, President and CEO of NV Energy, emphasized the significance of the partnership stating, "NV Energy and Google’s collaboration to bring clean, firm energy technology like enhanced geothermal onto Nevada’s grid at this scale is remarkable. This proposal will not only support Google’s clean energy goals but also benefit our other customers by bringing greener energy resources to Nevada."

The collaboration builds on Google's recent successful pilot project with Fervo Energy in Nevada, which demonstrated the commercial viability of enhanced geothermal power. Since the pilot, Fervo has made significant advancements in reducing the time and cost of its drilling processes, driven by the early demand from Google. This has enabled a nearly 25-fold increase in enhanced geothermal capacity, which will now be available to support Google’s data center operations in the state.

Cannon added, "This innovative proposal, if approved, provides a blueprint for other utilities and large customers in Nevada to accelerate their clean energy goals. We are excited to move forward with this regulatory process and share these advancements with other customers, enhancing the economic opportunities for our state."

Tags:

Clean Transition Tariff

CTT

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Nevada

Fervo Energy