The geo-scientific consulting firm CGG has uncovered an underwater energy resource with geothermal potential, capable of changing clean energy generation. According to their report, the ocean floor harbors a vast amount of energy, specifically in areas where tectonic plates are separating, promising a more accessible and economical source of energy.
Despite the growing interest in solar and wind energy, these sources cannot guarantee an autonomous and complete transition to a clean energy grid. However, geothermal energy emerges as an ideal and promising solution, offering a constant source of clean energy derived from the earth’s heat and available, in large quantities, 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
On the other hand, geothermal energy still accounts for less than 1% of global energy production. Added to this are the difficulties of accessing subway hot rocks in some regions, and the high investment cost associated with drilling and exploration of these new sources. Traditionally, the industry has been concentrated in active volcanic areas, well known for their accessibility to heat sources close to the earth’s surface.
Unlocking marine geothermal potential
CGG’s goal suggests looking beyond these volcanic zones, by targeting the seafloor, to extract geothermal resources in a broad and consistent manner, thanks to the formation of new earth crusts in the submarine rifts where tectonic plates separate. These areas, covering approximately 65,000 square kilometers, present ideal conditions for geothermal exploitation, with magma close to the surface and a more predictable environment.
The study indicates that seafloor expansion zones could replicate the optimal conditions found on land in places like southern Iceland, but with significantly more extensive resources. This approach would not only increase drilling success rates, but also provide more stable geothermal temperatures and fluids.
Challenges and opportunities for marine geothermal energy
One of the main challenges of this energy source energy source is its remoteness from terrestrial power grids. In other words, it limits the transport of generated electricity to nearby coasts. CGG proposes as a solution the production of green hydrogen through steam electrolysis, which can then be transported or converted to ammonia for sale, also generating fresh water as a potentially marketable by-product.
Meanwhile, CGG has applied for a patent for an innovative combination of technologies designed to explore and develop these marine geothermal resources. The company claims that its objective in obtaining the patent is to facilitate the rapid development of these resources, offering licenses at a reasonable cost in developed countries and even more accessible in developing nations.
The industry is exploring new drilling technologies, such as the one proposed by Quaisewith ultra-deep particle beams, the potential of geothermal energy is expanding, promising an inexhaustible source of clean energy. Marine geothermal, in particular, could play a crucial role in meeting the world’s growing demand for clean energy, underscoring the importance of innovation and international cooperation in the search for sustainable energy solutions.
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Source and photo: newatlas.com
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