Engineers pioneering high-temperature geothermal methods to boost efficiency

In its recent article, Jason Deegan highlights the groundbreaking advancements in geothermal energy technology, shedding light on the latest innovations.

Historically, geothermal power plants have focused on extracting energy from rocks heated to around 200°C. However, a group of innovators is advancing the field by targeting rocks that reach an impressive 375°C. Using a groundbreaking approach that involves microwave technology, these engineers can vaporize the moisture within the rocks, unlocking considerably more geothermal energy than traditional methods. A colleague in renewable energy once described this advancement as “transformative,” highlighting it as a major step toward more efficient energy production in the industry.

The potential of this technology is immense. A landmark study by MIT in 2006 showed that tapping into just two percent of the geothermal energy located three to ten kilometers beneath the Earth's surface could generate more than 2000 times the United States' annual energy consumption. This virtually limitless energy source offers a promising solution in the fight against climate change, serving as a clean alternative to fossil fuels and supporting global sustainability objectives set by organizations like the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

Naturally, exploring such extreme conditions comes with significant challenges. The intense pressure and extreme heat make conventional drilling equipment ineffective. To address these obstacles, engineers are working on microwave-based drilling systems that can operate regardless of depth or rock composition. This breakthrough not only overcomes the constraints of traditional methods but also offers a more precise and efficient extraction process.

One of the most fascinating elements of this new approach is the way water behaves under such extreme conditions. At temperatures around 375°C, water can reach a supercritical state, greatly enhancing its heat transfer capabilities. However, predicting and comprehending this behavior is still a challenge. Scientists are working on developing models to predict how water will respond in these unfamiliar conditions, a crucial step to ensure the process is both safe and efficient.

By Naila Huseynova