Panel 2A: Advances & Innovations in Superhot Rock Geothermal: Resource Characterization, Well Design & Construction, and Project Development

As the world seeks sustainable energy solutions, geothermal stands out as a promising source of renewable energy due to its ability to provide clean, firm power and heat. Previous barriers to geothermal energy development are changing with technology innovations opening up access to new types of resources. This panel session brings together experts and innovators at the forefront of geothermal technology to discuss recent advances, best practices, and emerging trends in Geothermal well design and construction, focusing on Superhot Rock (SHR) environments.

Furthermore, the panel will explore the broader implications of SHR in decarbonization efforts, highlighting its potential to provide local, dispatchable, low or zero carbon power and heat. R&D efforts for SHR resources across different geological settings, including crystalline rock, will be presented, along with ongoing efforts in key related areas such as advanced drilling technologies and well completions in SHR settings, geophysical imaging techniques, reservoir characterization, site selection tools, reservoir characterization and stimulation techniques, chemical modeling and mitigation methods, and techno-economic analysis.

This session aims to deepen the understanding of SHR resources and related engineering developments, informing R&D priorities and fostering collaboration towards scalable and sustainable geothermal energy solutions worldwide.

The discussion will delve into a wide range of topics crucial for understanding and harnessing the potential of SHR. Experts from various sectors including researchers, engineers, industry professionals, and academics will share insights on:
• SHR rock drilling project updates, underway or planned
• Advanced Well design for SHR: How to manage extreme thermal loads
• Innovative drilling techniques and methodologies for deep hot rock reservoirs.
• Well completion progress in superhot environments.
• SHR resource assessment, modeling, reservoir characterization,
• Stimulation in SHR conditions
• Techno-economic studies: e.g. levelized cost of electricity for SHR geothermal; assessment of carbon emissions and water utilization and lifecycle analyses.