Date/Time: Tuesday, August 30, 2022 - 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Track: Technical Panel
Room: Tuscany 7-8
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Description:

Closed-loop geothermal systems (CLGS), also known as advanced geothermal systems (AGS), rely on conduction to heat a working fluid circulating within a closed wellbore. CLGS are gaining traction in the geothermal and broader clean energy communities, garnering investment from the likes of bp, Chevron, Baker Hughes, H&P, and Nabors. Advocates point out their high predictability, benign nature (no fracking, no continuous water use, no GHG emissions), and ability to make geothermal energy anywhere with no exploration risk. Skeptics point out the reduced thermodynamic efficiency of conduction compared to convection and, correspondingly, the increased length of drilling required to make CLGS economic. This panel is focused on the techno-economics of such systems. Panelists will discuss system design, well construction and operation costs, and the role CLGS can play in the energy transition.