Oil Wells Could be Tapped for Geothermal Energy
The Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) at the University of North Dakota has been tasked with leading a new state-led examination of geothermal energy development in North Dakota, particularly focusing on repurposing former oil and gas wells, following the passage of SB 2360 by the 2025 North Dakota Legislature.
The bill provides that Legislative Management will during the 2025-26 interim “consider studying the feasibility of developing geothermal energy in the state,” including “the application of geothermal energy to nonproductive oil and gas wells to extend the life of the well through the use of a complementary energy extraction method.” The study will evaluate geology, resource exploration and production of geothermal energy, support for geothermal startups and innovation, and other opportunities to advance geothermal in North Dakota.
A UND blog article describes how geothermal power offers a 24-7, low-emission alternative to wind or solar, and highlights that converting idle or abandoned oil and gas wells could enable geothermal deployment in regions such as the Williston Basin. The article calls geothermal “the next clean energy frontier,” The deep reservoirs in the Bakken, formerly used for oil and gas production, hold potential for passing a working fluid through hot rock to generate heat or electricity. Research led by UND geology faculty shows North Dakota’s deep formations could be usable for what’s known as “Deep Direct Use” geothermal energy.
~Western Dakota
Energy Association
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