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Geothermal in the future Energy Mix – a take by IGA Exec. Director Marit Brommer

Geothermal in the future Energy Mix – a take by IGA Exec. Director Marit Brommer Website of IGA - screenshot
Alexander Richter 14 Sep 2018

Highlighting the important role of geothermal energy in the global energy transition, Dr. Marit Brommer of the International Geothermal Association points out the specific geoscience skillset and collaboration required to push for development for it to live up to its potential.

In a recent article published in geoscience magazine GeoExpro, Dr. Marit Brommer, Executive Director of the International Geothermal Association highlights that despite the still marginal role of geothermal energy in the energy mix, it will play an important role in the overall energy transition.

While confirming the less important role of geothermal in the overall global mix for sources of electricity, while being of great importance in specific regions and countries, she highlights the predominant role for geothermal energy in the heating context.

The demand for power represents only about 20% of global energy consumption, while heating and cooling represent about half of all energy consumption globally, with 30% for transport.

In the context of geoscience and the role of professionals in this segment, she taps into the topic of Engineered/ Enhanced Geothermal systems (EGS) and the relevant skillset of geoscience subsurface professionals and the need for clear specifications for assessing and classifying geothermal energy potential.

So despite, geothermal energy being a “marginal player today [it] has the potential to become a strong actor in the global energy transition.  In its role, so Marit Brommer, the International Geothermal Association is working with different organisations in the subsurface/ resource related sectors to “jointly work on cross-over initiatives around co-production of electricity and heat in dual plays, on novel drilling tools able to withstand high temperatures, and on setting global standards and certifications both for geothermal well designs and production strategies in low-enthalpy environments.

There is a wealth of knowledge, strong leadership and a thriving safety culture in both industries. Stimulating interactions between the two communities and jointly tackling some of the required technology breakthroughs will be inspirational for both the seasoned industry professional and for the recent geology graduate on the outlook for a sustainable energy career.”

Source: GeoExpro