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The Potential of Fracking Technology to Propel a Clean Energy Revolution

Earth's crust has ample heat for electricity through geothermal tech. Advances in drilling tech revolutionize the field.
Steam rises from the Svartsengi geothermal power station on May 23 near Grindavik, Iceland. Credit: John Moore/Getty Images

From our collaborating partner Living on Earth, public radio’s environmental news magazine, an interview by Paloma Beltran with Jamie Beard, the founder of Project InnerSpace, which aims to advance geothermal power generation.

The Earth’s crust contains a vast supply of heat that can be converted into electricity through geothermal technology.

Traditionally, geothermal power generation has been concentrated in volcanic regions like Iceland due to easy access to underground heat. However, breakthroughs in deep drilling technology are transforming the industry globally.

In 2006, MIT-led research highlighted the potential of deep geothermal as a continuous renewable energy source, which could significantly impact climate change. Recently, the Interior Department approved the large-scale Fervo Energy project in Utah, set to produce up to 2 gigawatts, powering more than 2 million homes.

Jamie Beard, founder of Project InnerSpace, aims to advance geothermal energy using drilling expertise from the oil and gas sector. This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

PALOMA BELTRAN: How would you describe the current state of geothermal energy in the United States?

JAMIE BEARD: The current state is exciting. Geothermal has been relatively inactive in the U.S. and globally because it is geographically limited and lacks awareness and investment. But this is changing in the United States, with many stakeholders now interested in developing geothermal projects. Technology companies and the oil and gas industry are increasingly engaging in geothermal energy projects.

BELTRAN: What is the potential for geothermal in our energy landscape, particularly for base load power?

BEARD: Solar and wind energy are intermittent. Geothermal, once developed, offers a high capacity factor, meaning it provides continuous power, regardless of sun or wind availability. This makes it ideal for critical infrastructure like data centers that require reliable clean power. Geothermal is also promising for heating and cooling.

BELTRAN: How deep are we talking about for next-generation geothermal?

BEARD: Next-generation geothermal involves drilling as deep as we do for oil and gas, between 10,000 and 30,000 feet. While very deep, hot resources remain future targets, a significant amount of geothermal energy can be tapped at these depths. This is the low-hanging fruit we should pursue initially.

BELTRAN: What opportunities exist for involving the fossil fuel industry in clean energy transitions?

BEARD: The biggest opportunity in geothermal is leveraging the oil and gas industry’s capabilities, technologies, and workforce. The industry’s global scale can accelerate clean energy production. If the oil and gas sector focuses on geothermal, the potential impact on global energy supply could be substantial.

BELTRAN: Does geothermal technology involve fossil fuels?

BEARD: Energy is required to build plants and projects, so some carbon emissions are likely unless everything is electrified. However, geothermal mainly uses Earth’s heat for clean electricity and heat, making it virtually carbon-free. Some next-generation concepts employ fracking technology to enhance geothermal systems, without the oil and gas components.

BELTRAN: Why are you confident in scaling up this technology?

BEARD: The shale boom demonstrated rapid energy sector transformation. Within a decade, the U.S. became a leading oil and gas producer through technological advances. Similar innovation and speed could drive a geothermal boom, previously achieved with unconventional oil and gas methods.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024