Power Players Converge at the Hamm Institute for American Energy at OSU to Discuss Geothermal as a Solution to National Demand for Baseload Power

First in a Series of Roundtable Discussions Addressing Energy Leadership and Dominance in Response to Secretary of Energy Wright's Challenge

OKLAHOMA CITY, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hamm Institute for American Energy at Oklahoma State University recently hosted a geothermal roundtable, bringing together top industry experts, policymakers, and investors to explore the role of geothermal, along with natural gas and nuclear power, in providing baseload energy in the United States due to growing demand.

This event marks the first in a series of roundtable discussions aimed at developing solutions in response to Secretary of Energy Wright's challenge for U.S. energy leadership.

The roundtable focused on the importance of next-generation geothermal energy as a key component of baseload power generation, its role in enhancing grid resilience, and its potential to meet the growing energy demands of data centers. Participants also examined regulatory frameworks, support strategies, and financial mechanisms to accelerate geothermal development.

Dr. Ann Bluntzer Pullin, Executive Director of the Hamm Institute for American Energy, highlighted geothermal's potential as a stable, reliable energy source.

"I'm encouraged that the Department of Energy has recognized natural gas, geothermal, and nuclear as priorities. Geothermal has the potential to be another source of reliable energy and can be a tremendous asset to American economic security," said Bluntzer Pullin. "Particularly as they can leverage the oil and natural gas industry's innovative drilling practices, technology, and skilled workforce."

She also emphasized the critical intersection between geothermal energy, technology, and artificial intelligence:

"Having representatives from tech industries, like Nvidia, at the table today is critical," she said. "Advancements in artificial intelligence and computing are directly reliant on our ability to deliver more reliable and affordable energy. Exploring new technologies, like next-generation geothermal, alongside other dependable energy sources is essential to advancing technology in the U.S."

More than 50 top industry leaders participated in the roundtable, including executives from leading energy companies, academia, investment firms, and government. Attendees included:

• Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell, Oklahoma
• Devon Energy Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer Trey Lowe
• Fervo Energy CEO Tim Latimer
• J.P. Morgan Vice Chairman Michael Johnson
• Nvidia Director of Energy, Science and AI Infrastructure Policy Levi Patterson

AI & Energy: A Tech Perspective

Levi Patterson of NVIDIA shared insights on the tech industry's growing energy demands:

"Electricity load growth is being driven by increased manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and other expanding sectors. This is a critical issue as many emerging industries—such as biotechnology, quantum computing, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing—will all require reliable energy," said Patterson.

He also emphasized AI's role in accelerating the deployment of advanced energy resources, including geothermal.

Geothermal's Future as a Scalable Energy Solution

According to research shared by J.P. Morgan, geothermal energy has the potential to become a major contributor to the global energy mix, offering a stable, constant power source. Geothermal provides baseload energy, generating electricity continuously regardless of weather conditions. Next-generation geothermal technology is expanding access beyond traditional hotspots, making it a more scalable and investment-worthy solution.

As demand for energy grows, particularly from data centers and AI-driven industries, geothermal energy presents an opportunity to deliver reliable, always-on power to meet growing needs.

Following the roundtable, participants toured the Hamm Institute's state-of-the-art laboratory, including a unique geothermal test well, showcasing real-world applications of geothermal technology.

Future Energy Roundtables

The Hamm Institute's Geothermal Roundtable marks the beginning of a broader initiative to foster collaboration and innovation in the energy sector. Future discussions will continue to focus on advancing energy solutions, including natural gas, to strengthen American energy independence and leadership.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Dara McBee | (580) 580-7248 | dara.mcbee@hamminstitute.org

Thomas Graham | Crosswind PR | (512) 537-1414 | media@crosswindpr.com

About the Hamm Institute for American Energy

The Hamm Institute for American Energy at Oklahoma State University is dedicated to advancing energy research, policy, and leadership. Through collaboration with industry experts, government leaders, and academia, the Hamm Institute seeks to meet humanity's growing energy needs through affordable, reliable, and abundant energy. By championing American energy innovation, the Hamm Institute aims to safeguard U.S. national security and support global energy stability.

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SOURCE Oklahoma State University