Artificial Intelligence helps unlock geothermal potential
Geothermal energy has existed since the formation of the Earth, yet harnessing its full potential has proven to be a significant challenge. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing the way we explore and utilize geothermal resources, enabling the discovery of new reserves that were previously overlooked.
The Promise of Geothermal Energy
Geothermal energy is generated from the Earth’s internal heat, which is produced by the planet’s formation and ongoing radioactive decay. This energy is stored beneath the Earth’s surface and can be accessed by drilling deep underground. According to Joel Edwards, co-founder of Zanskar, a geothermal company, “The U.S. has a lot of it, and most of it in the U.S. is untapped. It’s a tremendous sort of resource base that’s waiting for us to go after it.”
AI’s Role in Geothermal Exploration
Traditionally, identifying viable geothermal sites has been a complex and often inefficient process. However, AI is changing the landscape of geothermal exploration. Edwards states, “We have made more discoveries in three years than the industry found in 30.” Zanskar has developed AI models that enhance the accuracy of locating geothermal resources, allowing for more targeted drilling efforts.
How AI Works in Geothermal Energy
AI technology analyzes geological data to identify potential geothermal hotspots. These models simulate various orientations of geothermal systems, improving the likelihood of successful drilling. Edwards explains, “Once we find these systems, we’re having much more success drilling into them because those models are better at sort of simulating all the possible orientations of a geothermal system.”
Challenges in Geothermal Production
Despite its potential, geothermal energy production carries inherent risks. Historically, drilling has led to inefficient wells, which can result in safety hazards and environmental concerns, including air and water pollution. These uncertainties often lead to delays in permitting and operational challenges.
Economic Implications
Edwards points out that drilling unproductive wells increases the overall cost of geothermal projects. “What happens is you drill moderately productive wells, marginal wells, or you drill unproductive wells. All of those failures get rolled up into the total cost of a project, and that drives the cost of the project up,” he explains. By using AI to pinpoint geothermal hotspots, companies like Zanskar are unlocking energy resources that have long been available but difficult to access.
Regulatory Landscape and Permitting
The best geothermal resources in the U.S. are primarily located in the western states, where much of the land is federally owned. To expedite the development of geothermal projects, the Interior Department has implemented emergency permitting procedures as part of the energy agenda. Edwards notes, “It typically takes three to six, three to seven years to get these projects permitted. Luckily, in the last few years, there’s been an urgency to cut red tape, and that’s already having a material benefit for some of these earlier stage projects.”
AI in Streamlining Regulations
AI could also play a crucial role in streamlining the regulatory process associated with geothermal energy projects. Calvin Butler, CEO of Exelon, emphasizes the importance of collaboration among federal, state, and local partners: “What we have to do is work with our federal, state and local partners to drive those solutions that you’re talking about. We cannot think of this technology as it’s happening to us. We have to partner and utilize it just like everyone else.” He believes that AI should help improve efficiency across the board.
Comparisons to the Oil and Gas Industry
The geothermal industry faces challenges similar to those encountered in oil and gas exploration. The Society of Petroleum Engineers has promoted the use of AI since 2009 to improve exploration, drilling, and development techniques. Edwards compares the current state of geothermal energy to the oil and gas industry over a century ago, stating, “It sort of feels like where oil and gas was maybe 100-plus years ago.”
The Future of Geothermal Energy
As AI continues to advance, its application in geothermal energy production is expected to grow. The technology not only enhances the accuracy of resource identification but also helps mitigate risks associated with drilling. This could lead to a more sustainable and efficient energy source for the future.
Conclusion
The integration of artificial intelligence into geothermal energy exploration is a game-changer. By improving the efficiency and accuracy of resource identification, AI is unlocking vast geothermal potential that has remained untapped for decades. As the technology evolves, it holds the promise of making geothermal energy a significant contributor to America’s clean energy future.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on the latest advancements in geothermal energy and artificial intelligence as of October 2023.
