Geothermal Resources in New Mexico
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Overview of Geothermal in New Mexico
New Mexico is blessed with several low-temperature (100–190°F) geothermal systems. A few hot springs in the Jemez Mountains are associated with cooling magma beneath the southwest margin of the Valles Caldera. However, most of the state’s hot springs are located in or near the Rio Grande rift.
Precipitation falling on the mountain ranges bordering the rift percolates to depths of approximately 3–5 km, where it is heated by elevated rift-related heat flow. These heated fluids are then discharged as springs near rift-related faults or at intersections of multiple generations of geologic structures.
Geothermal waters in New Mexico already support a variety of commercial uses, including heating of buildings and greenhouses and aquaculture operations such as fish farms. Spas and bathhouses are also economically important tourist destinations, particularly in Truth or Consequences and at Ojo Caliente.
New Mexico has strong potential to become a leader in geothermal energy, which will play a vital role in the transition to green energy and a low-carbon economy. Unlike more intermittent renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, Earth’s heat is available 24/7. Ground-source heat pumps and thermal energy networks can provide efficient heating and cooling, while hydrothermal and geothermal electricity production can supply clean, reliable power.
The Geothermal Research Program at NMBGMR
The Geothermal Research Program has been active since 2010 and focuses on exploring and cataloging geothermal resources throughout New Mexico while building partnerships with other research groups and industry.
Since 2010, completed projects have included evaluations of geothermal resources in Truth or Consequences, the Raton Basin, the Acoma Basin, the Pueblo of Jemez, southwestern New Mexico, the southern San Luis Basin, and the Española Basin.
In addition to research, the program actively supports workforce development through partnerships with faculty from the Petroleum Engineering Department at New Mexico Tech. Program staff engage with public audiences, K–12 educators, geothermal developers, nonprofits, and industry organizations across the state.
Program Highlights & Outreach
NMT Geothermal Certificate students at Lightning Dock with the Geothermal Program staff
MT Surveys for Geothermal Exploration
Various outreach initiatives. Left: Handing out educational resource packets to K–12 STEM educators representing NM public schools. Middle: Geothermal Program staff at Zanskar ribbon cutting. Right: Publicly attended panel in Santa Fe.
Explore More
Future of Geothermal in New Mexico
A comprehensive report exploring the state's geothermal resources, opportunities, and role in a low-carbon energy future.