As the world grapples with the urgent need to decarbonize and combat climate change, innovative solutions are emerging from the energy sector. A recent review published in the journal ‘Energies’ highlights the potential of using carbon dioxide (CO2) as a working fluid in Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS). This research, led by Lianghan Cong from the Construction Engineering College at Jilin University, presents a promising avenue for both geothermal energy extraction and CO2 sequestration.
The increasing concentration of greenhouse gases has reached alarming levels, necessitating immediate action to mitigate climate change. Traditional geothermal systems primarily utilize water as a working fluid, but the integration of CO2 introduces a range of benefits that could revolutionize the industry. “CO2’s lower viscosity and higher thermal expansivity enhance its mobility in geothermal reservoirs, leading to more efficient heat transfer,” Cong explains. This means that geothermal plants could potentially harness energy more effectively, particularly in low-temperature environments, where CO2’s thermal properties can significantly boost energy recovery rates.
The implications of this research extend beyond efficiency. By using CO2, geothermal systems can also contribute to climate change mitigation efforts. The process not only improves energy extraction but also facilitates the long-term storage of CO2, effectively reducing atmospheric concentrations. “We are not just extracting energy; we are also addressing the CO2 emissions problem,” Cong adds, emphasizing the dual benefits of this approach.
The study explores two main configurations: CO2-EGS, which focuses on enhancing geothermal energy extraction while sequestering CO2, and CO2 plume geothermal (CPG) systems that utilize natural CO2 reservoirs. This versatility opens up new possibilities for geothermal energy development, particularly in regions with existing CO2 reservoirs. The research indicates that the economic viability of these systems could improve through multi-objective optimization and integration with other renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind.
However, the road to commercialization is fraught with challenges. High costs associated with CO2 capture, injection, and infrastructure development pose significant barriers. The study underscores the importance of addressing these economic hurdles to unlock the full potential of CO2-enhanced geothermal systems. “Future research must focus on optimizing the CO2 capture phase, as this could significantly reduce overall system costs,” Cong suggests.
As the energy sector seeks sustainable and efficient solutions, the findings from this research could shape the future of geothermal energy. By leveraging CO2 as a working fluid, the industry may not only enhance energy production but also contribute to global decarbonization efforts. This innovative approach positions geothermal energy as a critical player in the transition to a low-carbon future.
For more insights into this groundbreaking research, you can visit the Construction Engineering College, Jilin University. The full study is available in the journal ‘Energies’, which translates to ‘Energies’ in English, reflecting the journal’s commitment to advancing energy-related research and technologies.
