We assess geologic energy resources.
We lead the government in developing the List of Critical Minerals.
We analyze global supply, demand and trade to strengthen mineral supply chains.
We study mine wastes across the Nation and their potential as a resource.
Energy and Mineral Resources Mission Area
We are the Nation’s primary source of impartial scientific information on geologic energy and mineral resources and their supply chains. We deliver actionable science that informs crucial resource management decisions and investments impacting the Nation.
Our Earth MRI initiative is mapping geology and mineral resources across the Nation. We also lead development of the List of Critical Minerals.
Meet our Research Programs
Meet our Research Programs
Our Programs deliver actionable science about the Nation's geologic resources.
Discover our Science
Discover our Science
Click on each topic below to learn about our science and its impact.
News
Publications
Enhanced geothermal systems electric-resource assessment for the Great Basin, southwestern United States Enhanced geothermal systems electric-resource assessment for the Great Basin, southwestern United States
The U.S. Geological Survey recently (2025) completed a provisional assessment of the geothermal-electric resources associated with high-temperature, low-permeability rock formations of the Great Basin, Southwestern United States. If sufficient technological advances to commercialize enhanced geothermal systems occur, then a current best provisional estimate for electric-power generation...
USGS critical minerals review USGS critical minerals review
No abstract available.
Statistical approaches for modeling correlated grade and tonnage distributions and applications for mineral resource assessments Statistical approaches for modeling correlated grade and tonnage distributions and applications for mineral resource assessments
Correlations between grade and tonnage exist in mineral resource data compiled from published reports, but they are not always addressed during quantitative assessment of undiscovered mineral resources. Failure to account for correlated grade and tonnage distributions can result in geologically unrealistic assessment results. Current software tools simulate univariate ore tonnage and...