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

The Next-Generation Geothermal Field Tests and Geothermal Resource Characterization and Confirmation funding opportunity is offered by the U.S. Department of Energy through its Golden Field Office as part of its broader Renewable Energy Research and Development portfolio. This program aligns with the Department of Energy’s long-term strategy to advance geothermal technologies and expand domestic clean energy capacity. The initiative is informed by strategic frameworks such as the GeoVision Roadmap and the Geothermal Technologies Office Multi-Year Program Plan, both of which emphasize innovation, field validation, and scaling of geothermal systems. The funding opportunity is structured as a cooperative agreement, indicating ongoing involvement between the agency and award recipients throughout project execution. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support field-scale geothermal testing and exploration activities that are essential for validating next-generation geothermal technologies. These include testing at depths and temperatures representative of full-scale deployment conditions. The program prioritizes research, development, testing, and evaluation of advanced geothermal development approaches, including both enhanced geothermal systems and hydrothermal resource exploration. Projects are expected to generate actionable data that will inform future decisions about geothermal development strategies, site selection, and investment priorities. Funding under this opportunity supports a wide range of activities, including drilling operations, subsurface characterization, resource confirmation, and field-scale technology demonstrations. These activities must contribute directly to understanding geothermal resource potential and improving the technical and economic feasibility of geothermal energy systems. While the funding is substantial, ranging from one million to twenty-five million dollars per award, recipients are required to provide cost sharing, reflecting the Department of Energy’s emphasis on shared investment and commitment from project partners. The total program funding is approximately one hundred seventy-one million five hundred thousand dollars, with an anticipated forty awards. Eligibility for this funding opportunity is broad and unrestricted, meaning that entities of all types may apply, including public and private organizations, academic institutions, nonprofit organizations, and for-profit companies. However, applicants must meet any additional criteria specified within the full funding announcement documentation. This inclusive approach is designed to encourage a diverse range of participants and innovative solutions from across the energy sector. Applicants are expected to demonstrate technical capability, financial readiness, and alignment with the program’s objectives. The application process requires submission through the Grants.gov platform, where applicants must prepare and submit a full proposal in accordance with the detailed instructions provided in the official funding announcement. While the summary does not specify pre-application requirements such as letters of intent, applicants should review the full announcement for any required components, including technical narratives, project management plans, budgets, and supporting documentation. The evaluation process is expected to consider technical merit, relevance to program goals, feasibility, and potential impact on geothermal energy development. Key dates for this opportunity include an initial posting on February 25, 2026, and a current application deadline of May 14, 2026, following an extension from the original March deadline. The opportunity is not described as recurring and is expected to close after the stated deadline. Award decisions will likely follow internal review processes after the closing date, with project timelines dependent on negotiated agreements between the Department of Energy and selected recipients. Applicants are encouraged to direct questions or technical issues to the listed program contacts via email or phone for assistance during the application process.

Align proposals with DOE GeoVision Roadmap priorities and emphasize real-world field validation and data generation