Advancing Geothermal Energy, Natural Gas and Industrial Heat
The Geothermal and Natural Gas pillar accelerates geothermal energy solutions and strengthens natural gas and process-heat infrastructure. The goal is abundant, affordable electrical and thermal energy that supports industrial needs across sectors.
Energy sources, efficiency and process-heat generation are central to industrial growth. The U.S. industrial sector uses approximately 32% to 35% of the nation's end-use energy, and natural gas supplies roughly 41% of industrial energy. Thermal processes such as boiling, melting, drying and calcining account for up to 74% of U.S. manufacturing energy use.
Geothermal power currently provides less than 1% of U.S. electricity, with approximately 4,000 MW of operating capacity. The U.S. Department of Energy has projected more than 90,000 MW of near-term geothermal grid potential by 2050, with next-generation potential reaching 300,000 MW.
Purdue researchers are advancing geothermal technologies, natural gas infrastructure, process heating and waste-heat recovery. Together, these efforts support U.S. industrial capability and leadership in energy and manufacturing innovation.