Google has taken a new and innovative step to power its data centers in Taiwan. The company has announced an investment in a 10-megawatt geothermal energy project on the island. This marks Google's first geothermal energy initiative in Asia.
Geothermal energy is generated using natural heat from deep within the Earth's crust. In simple terms, it harnesses underground heat to warm water and convert it into steam, which is then used to produce electricity. This type of energy is both clean and sustainable. Unlike solar and wind power, it is not dependent on weather conditions, making it a consistent energy source.
The project is being carried out by the Swedish company Baseload Capital through its local subsidiary, which has been exploring geothermal potential in Taiwan since 2019.
This is not Google’s first experience with geothermal power. In November last year, the company partnered with the startup Fervo to launch a 3.5-megawatt geothermal plant in Nevada, USA, to supply energy to its local data centers.
Taiwan, located on the geologically active "Ring of Fire," is rich in underground thermal resources, making it a suitable location for geothermal energy development. The Taiwanese government has set a goal of producing 6 gigawatts of geothermal energy by 2050. Google's investment is expected to contribute significantly toward reaching this target.
This initiative is also part of Google’s broader plan to reduce carbon emissions and operate entirely on clean energy. Using geothermal energy to run data centers not only protects the environment but also ensures a stable and uninterrupted power supply.
In conclusion, Google’s decision is a significant step for both the tech industry and environmental sustainability. For countries like Taiwan, it opens new opportunities for clean energy development.
