Geothermal Energy Exploration and Production Techniques: A Review

Ekeinde Evelyn Bose, Diepiriye Chenaboso Okujagu

Abstract


The internal heat of our planet fuels geothermal energy as a dependable renewable energy that shows extensive potential for sustainable growth. The renewable process of geothermal energy enables its pivotal role in worldwide clean energy development. The initial use of geothermal energy dated back to heating and bathing but now it powers electricity generation and many direct applications. The review delivers an exclusive discussion regarding the fundamental exploration and production methods required for geothermal resource development. The analysis covers geological features as well as sophisticated exploration procedures alongside drilling advancements along with reservoir management practices and the environmental and socioeconomic aspects of building geothermal projects. Research of geological formations requires analysis of heat sources and reservoirs and caprock structures through examination of geochemical methods and geophysical procedures together with remote sensing analysis. The current assessment includes a review of drilling advances that combine horizontality with directionality and the application of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) for regions beyond hydrothermal natural resources. This analysis includes evaluations of environmental effects as well as social effects and it offers approaches to reduce their impact. The research identifies three essential findings about exploration methods that reduce uncertainty and site selection performance and the value of drilling innovations for saving costs yet increasing outputs and EGS's transformative influence on geothermal production expansion. The review demonstrates geothermal energy's capability to operate across different sectors including power production and direct utilization systems by discussing induced seismic issues and water resource management and greenhouse gas release problems. Geothermal energy establishes itself as an essential basis for producing sustainable power. Continued research, technological advancements, and supportive policy frameworks are essential to overcoming existing barriers and fully realizing its benefits. By addressing environmental and social concerns, geothermal energy can significantly contribute to global clean energy transitions and climate change mitigation.


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.52155/ijpsat.v50.1.7155

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