Dec 15 2009
R&D Needs in Geothermal Exploration and Development, a report prepared by Dan Jennejohn of the Geothermal Energy Association (GEA), highlights problems and risks associated with geothermal energy and provides suggestions that will help to solve these problems.
This report was prepared by the Geothermal Energy Association as part of the Geothermal Summit Meeting conducted at Colorado’s Tri-State Generation headquarters in Westminster. Through this report Jennejohn highlighted the significance of improving the currently used technologies and revolutionary techniques.
This Geothermal Energy Association report is based on interviews given by many industrial experts and individuals from national laboratories and universities on issues relating to geothermal drilling and exploration. The report provides a summary of the different stages of drilling and exploration and it also highlights areas that consist of important geothermal opportunities and requirements. EGS and breakthrough technologies are important areas for R&D as suggested by this report. The report also emphasizes on the development of conventional technologies that will create a positive impact in the industry.
Karl Gawell, Executive Director of GEA, remarked that through this report people should be able to understand the availability of opportunities in this area of technology and research. Gawell also stated that a global expansion in geothermal production can be brought about through advancements in drilling and exploration technologies.
Recent R&D efforts have brought about a positive impact in the geothermal industry. The Department of Energy announced an award of $338 million for geothermal research projects in November. This includes 24 “Innovative Exploration and Drilling Projects” for which $98.1 million will be awarded. Recipients of ARRA funding and their association with varied drilling and exploration R&D requirements are identified and presented in this report.
Source: http://www.geo-energy.org/