Rodatherm Energy’s Geothermal Bet: More Efficient, But Cheaper?

Rodatherm Energy’s Geothermal Bet: More Efficient, But Cheaper?

Rodatherm Energy Wants to Make Geothermal More Efficient, But Will It Be Cheaper? Rodatherm Energy wants to make geothermal more efficient, but will it be cheaper? That’s the big question as the startup emerges from stealth with $38 million in fresh funding and a bold plan to build a pilot plant in Utah. Investors and industry watchers are closely tracking whether this technology can finally push geothermal into the mainstream. Image Credits:grandriver / Getty Images A Different Approach to Geothermal Energy Unlike many enhanced geothermal companies, Rodatherm Energy is testing a closed-loop system. Instead of water, its boreholes are likely lined with steel and filled with a refrigerant to move heat from deep underground. This could improve efficiency and reduce some of the technical risks tied to water-based systems. Backing From Top Investors The Series A round was led by Evok Innovations, with participation from Active Impact Investments, Giga Investments, Grantham Foundation for the Pr…