TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Amid growing efforts to decarbonize global energy systems, geothermal energy is emerging as a dependable solution by harnessing the Earth’s natural heat to produce reliable and low-carbon electricity. Unlike wind and solar, geothermal power can operate continuously regardless of weather conditions.
Several nations have become global leaders in developing this resource, ranking among the top countries with geothermal power production.
Here’s a closer look at the nations driving the growth of this sustainable power source according to Visual Capitalist and various sources.
List of Top Countries with Geothermal Power
1. United States – 3,734 MW
As of 2025, the United States remains the world’s leading producer of geothermal energy, accounting for approximately 23% of total global geothermal capacity, with an operating capacity of around 3.7 gigawatts.
Beyond its current output, the United States is also advancing an extensive pipeline of new geothermal projects. According to the Global Geothermal Power Tracker, around 223 units are currently under development, representing more than 15 GW of potential capacity, nearly doubling the existing global geothermal operating capacity of about 16 GW.
2. Indonesia – 2,432 MW
Positioned along the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia becomes one of the top countries with geothermal power production. Its unique geology, particularly across islands like Sumatra at the meeting point of the Eurasian and Indo-Australian tectonic plates, creates frequent volcanic activity that fuels vast underground heat reserves.
By tapping into this vast natural advantage, geothermal energy could play a key role in advancing Indonesia’s long-term clean energy transition.
3. Philippines – 1,937 MW
Following suit behind the United States and Indonesia, the Philippines primarily relies on geothermal resources for electricity generation, using the Earth’s internal heat to produce steam that drives turbines connected to power generators.
This process provides a stable supply of electricity to both urban and rural areas, supporting a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial activities.
4. Turkiye – 1,726 MW
Ranking fourth globally in installed geothermal power capacity, Turkiye strengthened its domestic capabilities, achieving a localization rate of around 55%, with local companies producing key components such as generators, turbines, and power electronics. Geothermal power plants also contribute meaningfully to Türkiye’s electricity supply.
5. New Zealand – 1,377 MW
New Zealand stands among the world’s leading countries in geothermal power production, supported by its abundant geothermal resources and long-standing expertise in the sector.
The country has recently introduced an ambitious draft strategy aimed at doubling geothermal energy production by 2040, both for electricity generation and direct heat use.
To achieve this target, the government has outlined several key priorities, including improving access to geothermal data, ensuring regulatory frameworks remain effective, and expanding the adoption of geothermal technologies.
6. Mexico – 941 MW
One of geothermal energy’s key advantages in Mexico lies in its remarkably low water consumption. Modern geothermal systems, particularly closed-loop and enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), circulate and reinject water rather than consuming it during operation.
With the use of dry cooling technologies, geothermal plants can reduce water use by more than 90% compared to conventional thermal power generation.
7. Italy – 834 MW
Italy holds a historic place in the development of geothermal energy, inevitably leading other countries with geothermal power production.
The nation currently operates 34 geothermal power plants, all located in the Tuscany region and managed by Enel Green Power. Although geothermal energy contributes a smaller share to Italy’s electricity mix, it continues to play a steady role in renewable power generation.
8. Kenya – 817 MW
Kenya has emerged as one of the leading geothermal energy producers in the world, particularly within Africa. Geothermal development in Kenya began in the 1980s with the first phase of the Olkaria power plant, located near Naivasha about 120 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. Over the years, several additional units have been constructed, bringing the facility’s capacity to nearly 800 megawatts.
9. Iceland – 779 MW
Included on the list, Iceland has long utilized its abundant geothermal resources, initially for space heating and everyday uses such as bathing and washing. In recent years, geothermal development expanded significantly to include electricity generation.
Today, geothermal power plants produce roughly 25% of Iceland’s total electricity supply, making it one of the nation’s most important renewable energy sources.
10. Japan – 618 MW
As a volcanic nation, Japan possesses abundant geothermal resources, including the potential for advanced supercritical systems. However, development has progressed slowly due to strict national park regulations and other regulatory barriers where many geothermal sites are located. Despite these constraints, Japan still holds significant potential to expand its geothermal power capacity in the future.
The top countries with geothermal power production demonstrate how underground heat can deliver reliable, low-carbon electricity to support modern energy systems. As investment and technology continue to advance, geothermal power is expected to play an even greater role in the years ahead.
Interested in learning about another major renewable source? Read more about countries that use wind energy, here.
Read: 10 Countries with the Most Nuclear Reactors: 2026 Ranking
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