The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced Monday that the department would provide up to $4.45 million for early-stage development of enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) tools and technologies.
Zonal isolation technologies can 'radically' improve the performance and economics of EGS, or manmade geothermal reservoirs, a statement said.
'These technologies provide the ability to target specific zones for stimulation activities, which can enable the command and control of fracture location and the economy of resources.
'In turn, this reduces development costs and operational risks associated with EGS development and promotes more power from fewer wellbores,' it added.
According to the DOE, EGS has the potential to provide a stable and secure source of renewable power across the nation, while creating jobs.
'Investing in EGS technologies could lead to more than 100 gigawatts (GW) of economically viable, electric generating capacity in the continental U.S., which currently stands at 3.8 GW,' it said.
By Gulsen Cagatay
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr