Researchers Orkhan Khankishiyev and Saeed Salehi, affiliated with the University of Oklahoma, have conducted a comprehensive study on the challenges and potential solutions for drilling in hard rock formations at high temperatures, specifically for the development of super-hot Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS). Their work, titled “Hard Rock Drilling for Super-hot Enhanced Geothermal System Development: Literature Review and Techno-Economic Analysis,” was published in the journal Geothermics.
The study underscores the growing importance of geothermal energy as a sustainable and renewable source of electricity, particularly in the context of global efforts to achieve net-zero energy solutions. Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) offer a promising avenue for expanding geothermal energy production, but their development is hindered by the technical challenges of drilling through hard rock formations at elevated temperatures.
Khankishiyev and Salehi’s research involves a thorough review of previous projects and existing drilling technologies, focusing on the state-of-the-art techniques for drilling in hard rock formations under high-temperature conditions. They highlight the need for specialized equipment and methods to overcome these challenges, which are critical for the successful development of super-hot EGS.
The study also includes a techno-economic evaluation to assess the feasibility of super-hot EGS development in hard igneous formations. This analysis considers key factors such as drilling performance, operational challenges, and material costs. The researchers aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the technical and economic aspects of drilling in these extreme conditions, which is essential for designing efficient and cost-effective drilling technologies.
The outcomes of this study are expected to facilitate the advancement of geothermal energy as a viable and sustainable energy source. By improving the drilling process in EGS development, the full potential of geothermal energy can be harnessed to meet the growing global demand for electricity. The research provides valuable insights for the geothermal energy industry, highlighting the importance of continued innovation and investment in drilling technologies to overcome the technical challenges associated with super-hot EGS development.
For more detailed information, the full study can be accessed in the journal Geothermics.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.