The Geothermal Energy Unit, formerly UURI (University of Utah Research Institute) performs basic and applied research in geothermal exploration, reservoir delineation, drilling and logging, and production. The U.S. Department of Energy has funded this work for more than 20 years. EGI staff work closely with the geothermal industry to improve geothermal technology.

The emphasis is on integrated interpretation of geological, geochemical, geophysical, and engineering data sets. EGI scientists have worked in many of the major geothermal systems worldwide, and maintain a unique collection of drill core and chip samples from many of these locations.

The experience gained over the group's long history is brought to bear on projects worldwide, including:

New technology for exploration, reservoir development, and production Nature and development of subsurface permeability Fractured and fracture controlled geothermal reservoirs Geologic mapping in granitic, volcanic, and sedimentary terrains Geological, geochemical, and geophysical data collection and interpretation Geological and thermal evolution of geothermal reservoirs Hydrothermal alteration and chemical zoning studies Software development for electrical geophysical methods High-temperature chemical tracer development and application Geothermal exploration and field management