Enhanced Geothermal Systems

Definition

Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) are engineered geothermal reservoirs that have been modified to extract heat from the Earth’s crust, particularly in areas where traditional geothermal resources are insufficient. EGS technology utilizes hydraulic fracturing to create or enhance fractures in hot rock formations, allowing water to circulate and absorb heat before being pumped back to the surface for energy generation. This method expands the potential for geothermal energy, making it a promising renewable energy source alongside solar, wind, and biomass.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Enhanced geothermal systems can be deployed in locations that do not have naturally occurring hydrothermal resources, vastly increasing the potential areas for geothermal energy production.
2. The process of creating an EGS involves drilling wells into hot dry rock and injecting water to create steam that drives turbines for electricity generation.
3. EGS technology is considered a sustainable energy source as it produces low greenhouse gas emissions and has a small land footprint compared to other energy sources.
4. Research and development efforts are ongoing to improve the efficiency and economic viability of enhanced geothermal systems, including advances in drilling technology and reservoir management.
5. While EGS has great potential, there are environmental concerns, such as induced seismicity, which refers to earthquakes caused by the injection of fluid into the ground.

Review Questions

• How does hydraulic fracturing contribute to the effectiveness of enhanced geothermal systems?
  • Hydraulic fracturing is a critical process in enhanced geothermal systems because it allows for the creation or enhancement of fractures in hot rock formations. By injecting high-pressure fluid into these formations, it increases the permeability of the rock, enabling water to circulate through the fractures more effectively. This circulation allows heat to be transferred from the rock to the water, which can then be extracted at the surface for energy production, making EGS viable in areas lacking traditional geothermal resources.
• What are some environmental impacts associated with enhanced geothermal systems and how can they be mitigated?
  • Enhanced geothermal systems can potentially lead to environmental impacts such as induced seismicity, which are small earthquakes triggered by fluid injection into geological formations. To mitigate these risks, careful site selection, monitoring of seismic activity during operations, and controlled injection rates can be implemented. Additionally, using advanced reservoir management techniques can help maintain pressure levels and minimize disturbance to surrounding areas.
• Evaluate the role of enhanced geothermal systems in the broader context of renewable energy technologies and their contribution to sustainable energy goals.
  • Enhanced geothermal systems play a significant role in expanding the portfolio of renewable energy technologies. By allowing energy extraction from locations previously deemed unsuitable for geothermal development, EGS helps diversify energy sources and contributes to reducing reliance on fossil fuels. With its ability to provide baseload power—consistent and reliable electricity generation—EGS supports sustainable energy goals by complementing intermittent sources like solar and wind. Its low carbon footprint also aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and transition towards cleaner energy systems.

Related terms

Hydraulic Fracturing: A technique used to create or enhance fractures in underground formations by injecting fluid under high pressure, essential for developing enhanced geothermal systems.

Geothermal Heat Pump: A system that uses the constant temperature of the ground to heat and cool buildings, representing a more localized application of geothermal energy.

Geothermal Energy: Energy derived from the heat stored beneath the Earth's surface, which can be harnessed for electricity generation and direct heating applications.