In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, researchers Tariq Eldakruri and Edip Senyurek from Qatar University are exploring innovative ways to harness geothermal energy, a low-emission power source that has seen limited adoption in Qatar due to high costs and technical challenges. Their recent study, published in the journal “Energy,” investigates how automation can make geothermal energy more economically and environmentally viable in the region.
Geothermal energy holds significant potential as a continuous, low-emission power source, but its adoption in Qatar has been hindered by high capital costs, drilling risks, and uncertainties about subsurface conditions. Eldakruri and Senyurek’s research focuses on three specific pathways for geothermal deployment in Qatar: Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) in the Dukhan Basin, repurposing existing oil and gas wells, and utilizing ground source heat pumps for district cooling.
The study employs geological datasets and financial modeling to assess the impact of automation on these geothermal projects. The findings reveal that full automation can substantially reduce both capital and operating expenditures. Capital expenditure decreases by 12 to 14 percent, while operating expenditure drops by 14 to 17 percent. Consequently, the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), a measure of the average revenue per unit of energy production, falls from 145 USD per MWh to 125 USD per MWh. Additionally, the payback periods for these projects shorten by up to two years, making them more attractive to investors.
From an environmental perspective, the study highlights that substituting traditional energy sources with geothermal energy can avoid between 4,000 and 17,600 tons of CO2 emissions annually for each project. This reduction in greenhouse gas emissions aligns with Qatar’s long-term energy diversification and decarbonization strategies.
Furthermore, the researchers use Monte Carlo simulations to demonstrate that automation reduces uncertainty in investment outcomes, providing a more stable and predictable return on investment. This added layer of financial security can encourage greater investment in geothermal projects, fostering the growth of a sustainable energy sector in Qatar.
In practical terms, the integration of automation into geothermal energy projects can make these ventures more economically viable and environmentally beneficial. For the energy industry, this means that geothermal power could become a more attractive option for diversifying energy portfolios and reducing carbon footprints. As automation technologies continue to advance, the potential for geothermal energy to play a significant role in Qatar’s energy mix becomes increasingly promising.
The research by Eldakruri and Senyurek, published in the journal “Energy,” provides a comprehensive assessment of how automation can catalyze the adoption of geothermal energy in Qatar. Their findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, investors, and energy companies looking to explore sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.