Enhanced Geothermal Systems (Illustrated GIF)

Enhanced Geothermal Systems are an emerging resource that the USGS studies. To generate electricity from these systems, fractures are engineered into deep, low-porosity hot rocks to allow water to circulate. Then, the heated water is pumped back to the surface, where the thermal energy is used to move a turbine and generate electricity. 

This GIF is modified from an illustration by Kimber Petersen in a 2025 Fact Sheet.