Back in February, 1,369 thousand mWh of electricity in the US were generated by geothermal energy. While Texas boasts a possible capacity of up to 10,000 MW, according to EIA’s statistics, not a single Texas kilowatt added to those standings. Almost all of that electricity was made in California.
According to the EIA, the unique geothermal sources deep below the Texas turf are largely untapped. For decades, both oil and natural gas drillers have tapped subterranean pools of hot water. It’s thought as much as 12 billion barrels heated to nearly 400°F — well above the boiling point to make steam — may be available. Research has identified 17,000 wells in Texas with bottom temperature ranges above 212 °F. Southern Methodist University’s Geothermal Laboratory and the University of Texas at Permian Basin have estimated Texas could have 2,000 to 10,000 MW in geothermal generating capacity. The hottest well, located east of Victoria, was recorded at 510°F!