Understanding Next-Generation Geothermal
What is next-generation geothermal?
To expand geothermal energy’s global reach, next-generation geothermal wells with engineered reservoirs in hot dry rock provide a critical pathway to access the earth’s heat economically, including opening up viable localities across the globe. Next-generation geothermal wells, including Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) and Advanced Geothermal Systems (AGS), are drilled primarily to extract heat from the Earth’s subsurface using horizontal drilling.
How do geothermal systems work?
Geothermal systems circulate fluid through hot rock deep underground, where it absorbs heat and returns to the surface to generate electricity or provide direct heating and cooling.
Are geothermal systems truly efficient?
Yes. Geothermal power plants operate at very high capacity factors, at 77% and above, providing reliable, continuous energy with minimal fuel input.
What are the benefits of geothermal systems?
Geothermal provides reliable baseload energy, produces very low emissions, requires a small land footprint, and can deliver both electricity and heating with long operational lifetimes.
Is geothermal suitable for any climate?
Yes. Because geothermal relies on heat from beneath the Earth’s surface rather than weather conditions, it can operate effectively in almost any climate.
Do geothermal systems work for both heating and cooling?
Yes. Geothermal heat pump systems can provide both heating in winter and cooling in summer.
What is the environmental impact of next-generation geothermal?
Next-generation geothermal has a very low environmental footprint, producing minimal emissions while providing firm, carbon-free energy with a relatively small surface footprint.
Which countries are supporting geothermal development?
There are 32 countries across the globe developing geothermal. The top producing countries include the United States, Iceland, New Zealand, Philippines, Turkey, Indonesia, Kenya, and several European nations are actively supporting geothermal through research, policy, and project development.
Can you build a geothermal plant anywhere?
Not everywhere, but next-generation geothermal technologies are expanding the range of viable locations by enabling development in regions without naturally permeable geothermal reservoirs.
Is geothermal power suitable for AI data centres?
Yes. Geothermal provides reliable, 24/7 carbon-free power that aligns well with the constant energy demand and sustainability goals of AI data centers.
How long will a next gen geothermal plant operate?
Many geothermal plants can operate for 30–50 years or longer, with reservoirs managed to sustain heat production over decades.
What are the costs of next-gen plants compared to traditional power sources?
While upfront capital costs can be high, geothermal’s low operating costs and long lifetimes can make it competitive with other firm power sources over the life of the project.
How much space does a geothermal plant require?
Geothermal plants have a relatively small surface footprint compared with many other energy technologies because most infrastructure is underground.
How reliable is a geothermal plant?
Geothermal plants are highly reliable and can operate continuously, often achieving capacity factors comparable to nuclear or natural gas plants.
What would be the typical carbon footprint of a geothermal plant?
Geothermal power typically produces very low lifecycle emissions to even being completely carbon-free depending on the type of geothermal system.