THE ENERGY INTERVIEW
The potential of geothermal energy is well known. According to the IEA, the planet has enough geothermal capacity – at a drilling depth of just 8km – to cater to global energy demand 30 times over. What’ s more, it promises something that solar and wind simply cannot – uninterrupted, round-the-clock energy that does not fluctuate with the weather.
But for all this promise, geothermal has remained a niche power source. It has been held back by geography, high costs and a lack of visibility compared with other renewables, but that is beginning to change.
Innovative new techniques and technologies are freeing geothermal from its shackles, while automation and AI are helping to push performance and planning to brand new heights. Companies like ABB are absolutely central to this shift, supplying the motors, drives and digital control systems needed to bring geothermal into the mainstream.
Brandon Spencer, President of ABB Motion, spoke to Energy Digital about all things geothermal.
Q. PLEASE INTRODUCE YOURSELF, YOUR ROLE AND YOUR RESPONSIBILITY AT ABB
» I’ m Brandon Spencer, President of ABB Motion, one of ABB’ s three business areas. We are a global leader in motors, drives and technologies that power critical applications across virtually
“The historical barriers are real. However, the question now isn’ t whether geothermal can scale, it’ s how fast we can make it happen”
Brandon Spencer President ABB Motion
every industrial sector. We continuously innovate and push the boundaries of technology, delivering energy efficient, decarbonising and industrial circular solutions that create lasting value for customers, industries and societies.
Q. WHAT IS ABB’ S ROLE IN GEOTHERMAL ENERGY?
» As geothermal energy gains momentum as a dependable source of clean baseload power, ABB is well positioned to support its growth. Our experience across critical energy infrastructure, combined
26 September 2026