The Center for Earth, Energy and Environment (CEEE) at Marietta College will host a Geothermal Retrofit of Oil & Gas Wells Workshop on Nov. 12, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., bringing together leaders from academia, industry, and government to explore innovative approaches to geothermal energy development in the Northern Appalachian region.
The workshop will examine Northern Appalachia’s low-temperature geothermal resources and their potential to support sustainable energy production. Sessions will explore the geological formations available for thermal energy extraction, current direct use examples, and highlight existing and emerging technologies. Participants will discuss how retrofitting oil and gas wells for thermal energy extraction could help reduce installation costs by repurposing existing infrastructure.
Dr. Ben Stuart, dean of CEEE, said the workshop will encourage attendees to consider how geothermal energy could address regional energy needs and create new opportunities.
"We are reaching out into Appalachia and encouraging communities to think of new challenges, embrace new opportunities, and consider how geothermal energy could possibly help meet evolving needs," Stuart said.
Registration and breakfast will begin at 8 a.m. in the Alma McDonough Auditorium, followed by opening remarks at 9 a.m.
John Lassek, acting principal deputy assistant secretary for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy Office, will deliver the keynote address. Lassek will discuss the potential for geothermal energy in the United States, including the role of the recently established Geothermal Center of Excellence at the National Laboratory of the Rockies in Golden, Colorado.
Following the keynote, Ben Burke, CEO of Gradient Geothermal, will lead a panel discussion titled "Exploring the Potential of Oil & Gas Wells for Geothermal Applications." Panelists will discuss emerging technologies and real-world projects.
After a brief networking break, Susan Nash, director of innovation, emerging science and technology for the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG), will lead a panel discussion titled “Enabling Geothermal Retrofit at Scale.” The panel will examine the challenges and opportunities facing energy off-takers, including permitting pathways, incentives, and policy considerations that could help expand the use of geothermal energy.
The workshop will conclude with a luncheon plenary in the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center (DBRC) featuring Brad Gray, president and CFO of Diversified Energy.
Stuart said the workshop is intended to engage a broad audience, including energy professionals, students and community members interested in understanding energy resources, environmental health and related career opportunities.
"Whether or not you have a career in the industry, energy supply and environmental health affect us all," Stuart said. "This workshop will help people understand their options while showing how geothermal technologies can connect to the skills, experience, and future opportunities of energy and environmental professionals."
To learn more and register, visit marietta.edu/event/center-earth-energy-and-environment.