Meta taps geothermal energy to power its data centers
As data centers consume more power, Meta and Google are turning to enhanced geothermal energy to meet their clean energy needs.
In short:
- Meta partnered with Sage Geosystems to develop a 150-megawatt geothermal energy project in Texas using advanced fracking techniques.
- Google is collaborating with Fervo Energy on a 5-megawatt pilot geothermal plant in Nevada, with plans for larger projects in Utah.
- Enhanced geothermal is gaining traction as a reliable, emissions-free energy source that can complement wind and solar power.
Key quote:
“It’s basically the same fracking technology. The difference is that we’re going after clean heat instead of hydrocarbons.”
— Cindy Taff, CEO of Sage Geosystems
Why this matters:
Enhanced geothermal could provide a consistent, clean energy source for power-hungry data centers. Its success may help reduce the tech industry’s reliance on fossil fuels.
Related:
As fires and floods rage, Facebook and Twitter are missing in action
Mark Zuckerberg's private jet has carbon footprint 17 times average
In just two months, Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg's private jet has emitted 17 times more carbon than the average American produces in a year.
Facebook algorithm ‘pushes conspiracy theories at climate change sceptics’
Facebook’s automated algorithms push climate change sceptics to read increasingly extreme conspiracy theories and misinformation about global warming, a study has found.
Facebook’s new ad policies make it harder for climate groups to counter Big Oil
Meta removed advertisers’ ability to target audiences on “sensitive” topics. Climate groups say the change favors polluters.
Climate denial still flourishes on Facebook
Facebook is still allowing climate denial to flourish on its platform despite pledging months ago to crack down. About half the content from major publishers of climate denial receives warning labels and very little is fact-checked, a new report from the Center for Countering Digital Hate has found.
Whistleblower takes on Meta over climate change, Covid misinformation
The nonprofit organisation that represents Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen has filed two new complaints against Meta (formerly Facebook), accusing the social network of misleading investors about its efforts to tackle misinformation about climate change and Covid-19.