SLB and geothermal developer Ormat Technologies plan to develop and deliver integrated geothermal projects with a focus on traditional and enhanced geothermal systems, the companies announced June 24.

Global energy services company SLB will utilize its knowledge on reservoir characterization, well completion and production technology for the projects, while Ormat will bring its geothermal field and project development, power plant design and manufacturing, operations and engineering, procurement and construction capabilities, according to news release.

As part of the partnership, SLB will license Ormat’s enhanced geothermal systems patent.

“Geothermal energy represents a significant opportunity for the energy transition, providing clean, baseload renewable power,” said Irlan Amir, vice president of renewables and energy efficiency for SLB. “By combining our expertise with Ormat, we are pioneering the first ever geothermal-as-a-service offering in the market to help customers unlock the full potential of geothermal resources and accelerate the deployment of this sustainable energy source.”

Using injection and producer wells in hot reservoirs, geothermal energy is among the technologies being pursued to help lower emissions. Heat extracted can be used to heat or cool homes and buildings via direct use heat, or to generate electricity with higher temperature geothermal resources.

Besides being a renewable energy source, geothermal power plants provide baseload power —meaning they consistently produce electricity—regardless of weather conditions.

“As the largest owner and operator of geothermal fields and power plants in the U.S., this strategic collaboration with SLB aims to expand the opportunities for geothermal development utilizing both traditional and EGS technologies,” said Paul Thomsen, vice president of business development for Ormat Technologies. “Ormat’s world class geothermal development expertise perfectly complements SLB’s significant reservoir knowledge and well completion technologies.”

SLB said it has been involved with about 80% of the world’s geothermal power projects.

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