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

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

The essence of this innovative partnership is the introduction of a new Clean Transit Rate, also known as the ‘Clean Transit Tariff’ (CTT). This tariff will enable Google and other large energy consumers to meet growing energy demands cleanly and reliably. The proposal is currently being considered by the Nevada State Public Utilities Commission and, if approved, could serve as a model for other states looking to support their clean energy efforts.

NV Energy, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Energy, is leading this initiative by entering into a unique energy supply agreement with Google. A key element of this agreement is the use of increased geothermal energy. The company partnered 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 zero-emission energy by 2030, but also increases the resilience and sustainability of the local energy grid.

Doug Cannon, president and CEO of NV Energy, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating: “NV Energy and Google working together to bring clean, robust energy technology like enhanced geothermal to Nevada’s grid at this scale is extraordinary. 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 feasibility of enhanced geothermal energy. Since the pilot implementation, Fervo has made significant progress in reducing the time and cost of drilling processes, driven by early demand from Google. This has enabled a nearly 25-fold increase in the increased geothermal power that will now be available to support Google data centers in the state.

Cannon added: “If approved, this innovative proposal will serve as a model for other utilities and large customers in Nevada to accelerate their clean energy goals. We are excited to continue this regulatory process and share these advances with other clients, improving the economic benefits and opportunities for our state.”