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Principles of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS)

Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) represent a breakthrough in renewable energy, allowing for geothermal power generation in areas lacking natural hydrothermal resources. By using hydraulic stimulation to increase rock permeability, EGS plants can extract Earth's heat to generate electricity. This technology promises a consistent energy supply and has a global application potential, with projects in various countries exploring different stimulation methods for efficient energy extraction.

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1

EGS vs. Natural Geothermal Resources

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EGS extends geothermal power beyond natural hydrothermal areas by creating/enhancing permeability in hot dry rock.

2

EGS Heat Extraction Method

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EGS uses hydraulic stimulation to access thermal energy in Earth's crust where natural water/permeable rock lack.

3

EGS Impact on Geothermal Development

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EGS broadens geothermal energy potential geographically, allowing exploitation in diverse locations.

4

The success of ______ relies on the increased permeability of subterranean rock formations.

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EGS

5

Hydraulic stimulation in EGS involves the process of ______, which differs from the oil and gas industry's hydraulic fracturing.

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hydro-shearing

6

Unlike hydraulic fracturing, hydro-shearing does not create new fractures but extends ______ ones.

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pre-existing

7

In EGS, the heated water from underground is pumped back to the surface to ______ electricity.

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generate

8

EGS plant power generation methods

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Steam turbines and binary cycle power plants

9

Role of working fluid in EGS

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Vaporized by Earth's heat to drive turbines

10

EGS plant operational cycle

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Closed-loop with re-injection of cooled water or fluid

11

EGS can be applied globally because it is not constrained by ______ limitations.

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geographical

12

The primary requirement for EGS is the capability to tap into the ______ at adequate ______.

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heat resource depths

13

To access the necessary high temperatures for EGS, ______ drilling technologies are employed.

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advanced

14

An EGS facility typically has an operational lifespan of ______ to ______ years.

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20 30

15

EGS offers a ______ renewable energy solution due to its long-term operational potential.

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long-term

16

EGS stimulation techniques

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Hydraulic, chemical, thermal, explosive methods to create permeable rock pathways.

17

Cooper Basin significance

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Location of one of the largest EGS projects, with a 25MW demo plant, scalable to gigawatts.

18

EGS global potential

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Demonstrates versatility and potential for substantial geothermal energy extraction worldwide.

19

EGS is notable for its ability to provide ______ power and its flexibility in different ______ conditions.

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continuous geological

20

The transition to a more ______ energy landscape sees EGS as a critical component.

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greener

21

To increase the attractiveness of EGS, efforts are being made to improve its ______ and reduce ______.

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efficiency cost-effectiveness

22

EGS could help satisfy the ______ energy demands while lessening the ______ impacts.

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global environmental

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Principles of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS)

Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) are an innovative approach to geothermal power generation that extends the potential of this renewable energy source beyond areas with natural hydrothermal resources. EGS technology makes it possible to extract heat from the Earth's crust in locations where natural water and permeable rock are not present. By artificially creating or enhancing the permeability of hot dry rock formations through methods such as hydraulic stimulation, EGS can access the thermal energy stored in the Earth's crust, thus broadening the geographical scope for geothermal energy development.
Geothermal power plant with cylindrical tower from which steam comes out, connected pipes and gray building, against a background of semi-arid hills and blue sky.

Hydraulic Stimulation in EGS Explained

The effectiveness of EGS hinges on increasing the permeability of rock formations deep underground. This is accomplished through hydraulic stimulation, a process that involves injecting water at high pressures into the rock via a well. The pressure opens and extends pre-existing fractures within the rock, thereby enhancing its permeability. This technique, known as hydro-shearing, differs from hydraulic fracturing in the oil and gas industry, which often creates new fractures. In EGS, the expanded fractures enable water to flow, absorb underground heat, and then be pumped back to the surface as heated water, which is then used to generate electricity.

Generating Electricity from Geothermal Heat

The conversion of geothermal heat to electricity in an EGS plant can be achieved through steam turbines or binary cycle power plants. In both systems, the heat extracted from the Earth is used to vaporize a working fluid that drives turbines, generating electricity. The cooled water or secondary fluid is then re-injected into the Earth to maintain the geothermal cycle. This closed-loop system allows EGS plants to operate as baseload power sources, providing a consistent and reliable supply of electricity.

The Global Potential of Enhanced Geothermal Systems

EGS has the potential for worldwide application, as it is not limited by geographical constraints. The key requirement is the ability to access the heat resource at sufficient depths. Sites with deep granite formations, often covered by insulating sedimentary layers, are ideal for EGS. Advanced drilling technologies enable penetration into these hard rock formations to reach the high temperatures needed for efficient energy extraction. The operational lifespan of an EGS plant is typically 20 to 30 years, offering a long-term renewable energy solution.

International Efforts in EGS Development

Global research and development in EGS are robust, with projects underway in countries such as Australia, France, Germany, Japan, Switzerland, and the United States. These projects are experimenting with various stimulation techniques, including hydraulic, chemical, thermal, and even explosive methods, to effectively create permeable pathways in the rock. The Cooper Basin in Australia hosts one of the world's largest EGS projects, with a 25-megawatt demonstration plant that has the potential to scale up to several gigawatts of power generation. These international efforts underscore the versatility and vast potential of EGS in tapping into the Earth's abundant geothermal resources.

The Future Outlook for Enhanced Geothermal Systems

In the quest for sustainable and dependable renewable energy sources, EGS emerges as a particularly promising technology. Its capacity to deliver continuous power and adaptability to various geological conditions positions EGS as a key player in the transition towards a greener energy landscape. Ongoing research and technological improvements aim to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of EGS, increasing its appeal as a means to meet global energy needs while mitigating environmental impacts.