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Geothermal Potential Could Surpass Nuclear

Geothermal energy is undergoing a significant transformation akin to the technological boom of the shale revolution, according to an article in The Economist, and this shift could potentially enable geothermal to outperform nuclear generation.

Geothermal has traditionally been limited to regions with naturally occurring underground reservoirs. However, the article states that innovative techniques are now making it possible to extract geothermal energy by drilling kilometres deep into hot rock, which can be done virtually anywhere across the planet.

Eavor’s technology, for example, creates a closed-loop system that circulates a working fluid, extracting heat via conduction from the surrounding rock. This heat is then brought to the surface to feed into heating networks or generate electricity.

Despite challenges, such as drilling costs and technological complexities, these new geothermal methods are yielding promising results. Recent projects have successfully reduced drilling times and costs, enhancing the competitiveness and scalability of geothermal technologies. Additionally, these projects have amplified geothermal’s potential to be a favourable companion to wind and solar, as it can provide power on demand and replace the output lost on cloudy or windless days.

The article anticipates that the impact of these advancements in geothermal technology could be profound. New drilling and extraction techniques could significantly expand its potential, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Moreover, these developments position geothermal energy as a major player in global efforts to reduce emissions.

Read the full article.

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