Clean energy companies are scrambling to survive as President Trump dismantles federal climate programs and cancels billions in funding. Offshore wind projects have been scrapped while geothermal energy emerges as a surprising winner. At CERAWeek in Houston, executives showcased how they're pivoting to survive without government subsidies.

Geothermal power has become one of the biggest beneficiaries of the new energy landscape. Companies like Fervo Energy are adapting oil and gas drilling techniques to tap underground heat in more locations, raising hopes for emissions-free power that runs 24/7. The Trump administration has provided support for advanced nuclear and next-generation geothermal while largely rejecting wind and solar.

Start-ups are finding new strategies to stay afloat. Brimstone, which lost a $189 million federal grant for carbon-free cement, has refined its process to produce multiple industrial materials and remain economically competitive. Others like AtmosZero are focusing on industrial heat pumps that make financial sense regardless of policy changes. Data center demand for AI is also creating unexpected opportunities for battery storage and renewable energy providers.