Oregon Super Hot Rocks Geothermal Project Underway

Mazama Energy began a geothermal energy project near Three Rivers, Oregon, on October 6, 2025. The project, located at Pad 29, aims to tap into extremely hot rocks deep underground. Alain Bonneville, chief geoscientist, explained that the project will create a subsurface reservoir two miles deep. This reservoir will allow the extraction of steam and hot water for power generation. The Super Hot Rocks project seeks to provide a consistent, weather-independent energy source for Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Bonneville indicated that extracting heat from these deep rocks could significantly improve electricity production efficiency. The project anticipates a potential output of up to 200 megawatts. This output could power twice the residential population of Bend, Oregon. If the pilot project proves successful, it could lead to a substantial increase in Oregon's renewable energy portfolio. It also has the potential to reduce the state's reliance on fossil fuels. The project represents a significant investment in exploring alternative energy sources and improving energy independence.