Germany is testing a new way to heat homes using the earth’s heat. This method is being tried in a town called Geretsried. A Canadian company, Eavor, is leading the project. They’re using a technology that involves drilling deep into the ground to tap into hot rocks. This is different from traditional methods that rely on hot water near the surface.
The process involves drilling two deep holes and creating a network of smaller tunnels to maximize contact with the hot rocks. Water is then circulated through this network, heating up in the process. The hot water can be used to heat homes or generate electricity.
How it works
Eavor’s technology is based on techniques used in the oil and gas industry. They drill two wells, 4 kilometers deep, and then create 12 smaller tunnels to increase the surface area in contact with the hot rocks. This closed-loop system allows water to flow through the rocks, heating up as it goes. The hot water then rises to the surface through a separate well.
The heated water can be used to warm up to 36,000 homes. It can also be converted into steam to power turbines, generating clean electricity. This technology has the potential to replace traditional heating methods that rely on fossil fuels, reducing carbon emissions.
Global interest
Several countries, including Mexico, are watching the German experiment closely. Mexico is already a significant player in geothermal energy, ranking sixth globally in 2023 with a production capacity of 976 megawatts. The new technology could help Mexico achieve its goal of 1464 megawatts by 2050.
Eavor plans to continue testing in Geretsried throughout the year. If successful, they will offer their technology to companies and countries looking to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. This could be a significant step towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
The technology is not entirely new, but its application is innovative. District heating systems, which distribute heat to multiple buildings, are common in Europe and the US. However, they often rely on fossil fuels. Eavor’s geothermal approach offers a cleaner alternative.
As the world continues to seek ways to reduce its carbon footprint, innovative solutions like Eavor’s geothermal technology are gaining attention. If the German experiment is successful, it could pave the way for wider adoption of this clean energy source.