Drilling Toward Superhot Geothermal Power

Quaise Energy is raising substantial private capital to commercialize millimeter-wave drilling for accessing deep rock at temperatures of roughly 300–500°C.

The company is developing Project Obsidian in central Oregon, initially targeting a 50-megawatt superhot geothermal plant by 2030, while advancing field demonstrations and partnerships with energy and drilling companies. The approach could expand geothermal power beyond areas served by conventional resources, but its commercial performance and ability to reach planned depths remain unproven.