This report describes the results of an analysis tracing the technological influence of geothermal energy research funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)’s Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO) and its precursor programs, as well as geothermal energy research funded by other offices in DOE. A total of 118 geothermal energy patents are confirmed to be associated with GTO funding (95 U.S. patents, 9 EPO patents, and 14 WIPO patents). Geothermal energy research funded by GTO, and by DOE in general, has had a significant influence on subsequent developments, both within and beyond geothermal technology. This influence can be seen upon innovations associated with the leading geothermal energy companies. It can also be traced in other technologies, notably oil and gas exploration, energy storage, materials handling and wastewater treatment.
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