Kenya may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about geothermal energy, but it leads the world in geothermal electricity production per capita. Sitting atop the geologically active East African Rift System, Kenya has tapped into the Earth’s heat for power, agriculture, industry, and community development—transforming a once-overlooked resource into a cornerstone of its energy future.
Spanning more than 45 square miles, The Geysers in northern California is the largest geothermal power plant complex in the world. For over a century, its steam has powered innovation, clean energy, and communities across the region.
Dr. Kristine Pankow of the University of Utah has been named the Geological Society of America’s 2025–2026 Distinguished Lecturer. Her lecture, “Utah FORGE: A Field-Scale Geothermal Laboratory,” will spotlight groundbreaking research at the world’s only dedicated site for advancing Enhanced Geothermal Systems.
Before it became the world’s largest geothermal power-producing site, The Geysers was known as the “Gates to Hades,” drawing visitors with its healing waters, steam vents, and wild legends.
Geothermal energy is gaining global momentum, with countries like the U.S., Indonesia, and the Philippines leading the way.
