Western Australia (WA) will allow companies to probe for potential geothermal hotspots as the state revitalises Australia’s dormant geothermal energy ambitions. The new acreage release allows applicants to bid for a total of 21 onshore exploration zones across the state, covering a combined area of nearly 82,000 square kilometres—slightly smaller than the island of Ireland. The proximity of several of these would have the potential to supply power to WA’s capital, Perth, by harnessing the hot temperatures found deep under the earth’s surface. WA Acting Mines and Petroleum Minister Rita Saffioti explained that the renewable power source could also help power remote operations whilst producing no emissions. “Geothermal energy is clean and renewable, so it can play an important role in securing WA’s domestic energy supply and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Saffioti said. “Geothermal energy produced from these areas could power regional centres, ports and infrastructure, as well as …