The $300,000 prize will help locate hidden geothermal systems.
Geothermal Technologies Office
September 10, 2026
Estimated Read Time min
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Geothermal has announced the $300,000 Geologic Enhanced Mapping System (GEMS) Prize to help identify hidden geothermal systems by using geophysical data to identify faults and structures indicative of geothermal resources.
The GEMS Prize challenges competitors to develop, train, and test algorithms that generate enhanced geologic fault datasets—which, in turn, can support mapping and modeling for geothermal and critical mineral resources. By using real-world datasets and testing ideas against geophysical data, the GEMS Prize is expected to accelerate discoveries of new, commercially viable hidden geothermal systems while reducing exploration and development risks.
The competition comprises two rounds, with prizes ranging from $15,000 to $100,000. Both individual and group competitors can participate, and submissions are due December 3, 2026.
Learn more and sign up to compete on the GEMS Prize website.