U.S. Department of Energy Invests $31M to Advance Renewable Geothermal Energy Technologies
The U.S. Department of Energy is investing up to $31 million in six innovative geothermal energy projects to advance enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) and explore new energy storage methods. This initiative aligns with U.S. goals to reduce emissions and expand the clean energy sector, potentially unlocking up to 90 gigawatts of power by 2050, enough for 65 million homes. EGS technology creates artificial underground reservoirs to efficiently extract heat where traditional geothermal methods aren’t feasible. Additionally, the DOE is funding the development of reservoir thermal energy storage (RTES), which stores heat energy underground, providing a reliable and environmentally friendly energy source.
According to the Innovation News Network, the United States Department of Energy (DOE) has announced an investment of up to $31m to support six innovative renewable geothermal energy projects across the country. These initiatives aim to advance enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) and explore new methods of energy storage, aligning with the US’ broader goals of reducing emissions and bolstering the clean energy sector.
Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm emphasised the significance of the initiative: “Expanding the use of new and innovative geothermal technologies will allow the United States to continue pushing forward into the frontier of the clean energy revolution by using the heat beneath our feet.”
Currently, geothermal energy contributes around four gigawatts to the US electricity grid. However, the DOE estimates that the expansion of EGS could unlock up to 90 gigawatts of reliable, flexible power by 2050, enough to supply energy to over 65 million American homes.EGS technology involves creating artificial underground reservoirs to extract heat from the Earth’s subsurface, which can then be converted into electricity.
While geothermal heat is abundant, many locations lack the natural water or fluid flow needed to recover this energy efficiently. EGS addresses this issue by enabling the extraction of heat in areas where traditional geothermal methods are not feasible.
Another key focus of the DOE’s funding is the development of reservoir thermal energy storage (RTES) technology.Unlike conventional batteries that store electrical energy, RTES stores heat energy directly in underground reservoirs, offering a valuable solution for industries that require high amounts of thermal energy, such as chemical production and food processing.
Renewable geothermal energy offers several significant advantages as a renewable energy source. Unlike solar or wind energy, which depend on weather conditions, geothermal energy provides a consistent and reliable power supply. It also requires less land and water compared to other energy sources and emits very low levels of greenhouse gases, making it an environmentally friendly option.
By investing in geothermal technologies, the US is making strides towards its clean energy goals while also enhancing energy security and creating economic opportunities.