Supercritical geothermal: Tapping Earth’s fiery furnace

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• April 19, 2024

Insight summary

Supercritical geothermal energy seeks to harness extreme underground heat, offering a powerful and sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources. This technology, while challenging due to the intense conditions and technical demands, has the potential to significantly increase the energy output from geothermal sources. Its adoption could lead to major shifts in energy security, job creation, and environmental sustainability, marking a pivotal change in how societies generate power.

Supercritical geothermal context

Supercritical geothermal delves deeper into the Earth's crust to harness immense heat, which exists at temperatures and pressures beyond the critical point where water no longer exists as either liquid or gas but as a supercritical fluid. This approach promises to unlock a new frontier in geothermal energy by tapping into underground reservoirs significantly hotter than those accessed by conventional geothermal systems. In New Zealand, research led by the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (GNS) aims to exploit these deeper and hotter geothermal resources, potentially revolutionizing the energy sector with a more potent and sustainable power source.

By drilling up to 6 kilometers beneath the Earth's surface, scientists can access reservoirs with temperatures exceeding 400 degrees Celsius. While technically challenging due to extreme conditions, this endeavor could significantly amplify the energy yield from the same volume of geothermal fluid extracted. The Taupō Volcanic Zone in New Zealand is a prime example of an area with immense potential for such exploration, supported by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)'s Endeavour Fund. 

International efforts in Japan, Italy, Iceland, and the US are also underway to harness supercritical geothermal energy. However, the challenge remains to overcome the significant engineering hurdles the harsh underground environments pose. Innovations in drilling technologies, well construction, and the management of supercritical fluids are essential to realize the potential of supercritical geothermal power. 

Disruptive impact

As these systems become more accessible and efficient, renewable energy could increasingly displace fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy security. For individuals, this could mean more stable energy prices and reduced environmental footprints as the reliance on imported fuels decreases. Energy companies may need to adapt to this shift by investing in geothermal technologies, redefining traditional business models centered around non-renewable resources.

For governments, the widespread adoption of supercritical geothermal energy offers a tool to meet ambitious climate targets. Policy frameworks may need to evolve to support the exploration and development of geothermal resources, including incentives for research and development, as well as guidelines to ensure environmentally responsible practices. Regions with geothermal potential could see increased investment and infrastructure development, leading to regional economic revitalization.

The global energy landscape could witness significant changes as supercritical geothermal energy matures. Countries with geothermal resources could become major players in the global energy market, exporting electricity or leveraging their geothermal capabilities. This shift could lead to a more diversified and resilient global energy supply, reducing dependency on a narrow range of energy sources and the geopolitical tensions often associated with them. As international collaborations in geothermal research and development strengthen, shared technological advancements and best practices could accelerate the global transition to renewable energy. 

Implications of supercritical geothermal

Wider implications of supercritical geothermal may include: 

• New job opportunities in the renewable energy sector, particularly in geothermal exploration, drilling, and power plant operation.
• A shift in labor market demands, requiring new skills and training programs for workers transitioning from fossil fuel industries to renewable energy sectors.
• Governments investing in infrastructure and research to support the expansion of supercritical geothermal energy, influencing budget allocations and fiscal policies.
• Increased local development and economic growth in regions with geothermal potential, contributing to rural revitalization and reduced urban migration.
• New business models in the energy sector, focusing on sustainability and long-term resource management rather than short-term profit.
• Changes in land use and planning regulations to accommodate geothermal power plants and protect geothermal resources.
• Geopolitical shifts as countries with significant geothermal resources become key players in the global energy market.

Questions to consider

• How could supercritical geothermal energy transform your community's approach to sustainability and economic development?
• How can individuals and local governments collaborate to support geothermal energy development while preserving nature?