The Renewable Energy Race: Hydrogen vs. Enhanced Geothermal Energy

Throughout history, humanity has faced numerous great races—some for glory, others for survival. In the realm of renewable energy, the most pressing race is the race to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. Japan and Europe are ambitiously pursuing hydrogen as a cornerstone for their energy future, while America is betting on an intriguing alternative—tapping into super-hot geothermal energy derived from deep underground geological features. Which of these methods will prevail in meeting the urgent challenge of climate change?

Hydrogen: Japan and Europe’s Vision

Japan’s Hydrogen Society

Japan has long aspired to create a hydrogen society, where hydrogen plays a central role in its energy security and environmental goals. The nation has committed substantial resources towards developing a hydrogen supply chain, fostering public-private partnerships, and championing industry-wide adoption. The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis indicates that Japan views hydrogen not just as an energy source, but as a key component to diversify its energy mix and steer the country toward a greener future.

Europe’s Ambitious Strategy

Not to be outdone, Europe has formulated the EU Hydrogen Strategy, seeing hydrogen as essential for its transition to net-zero by 2030. This strategy seeks to establish market mechanisms and subsidy platforms to incentivize the commercialization and rapid deployment of hydrogen technologies, especially for heavy industries and transport sectors. By investing in hydrogen infrastructure and R&D, Europe aims to ensure energy independence and sustainability while also addressing climate change.

The Super-Hot Alternative: Enhanced Geothermal Energy

America’s Bold Move

While Japan and Europe race toward hydrogen, America is venturing into an innovative domain—enhanced geothermal energy. Tapping into super-hot rocks deep within the earth’s crust, particularly in places like Oregon’s Three Rivers area, offers a promising pathway to clean energy. The company Mazama Energy is at the forefront of this effort, securing locations like Pad 29 for its pilot projects. Their goal? To harness energy from an enhanced geothermal system, dubbed “Super Hot Rocks.”

The Pilot Project

Mazama’s initiatives involve drilling deep into the Earth—up to two miles—to extract heat capable of generating substantial electricity. Geoscientist Alain Bonneville aims to demonstrate that expanded use of enhanced geothermal resources can meaningfully contribute to Oregon’s renewable energy landscape, ultimately powering homes and supporting local industries.

Enhanced vs. Traditional Geothermal Systems

Understanding Traditional Systems

Traditional geothermal energy relies on natural hot water or steam reservoirs located near the Earth’s surface, making it feasible mainly in specific regions—like the Klamath Falls area of Oregon that has hosted geothermal projects since the 1960s. Oregon Institute of Technology even established the state’s first geothermal power plant in 2010, which has seen success but is limited in its geographic applicability.

Enhanced Systems Break Barriers

Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) represent a technological leap, overcoming the woes associated with traditional methods. By injecting water into hot, dry rocks, these systems can create new pathways through which heat can be transported to the surface. This process involves turning hot water into steam, subsequently driving turbines to generate electricity. A continuous cycle is created as the steam is re-condensed back into water and injected again, yielding a seemingly perpetual source of clean energy.

Advantages of Enhanced Systems

According to Bonneville, enhanced geothermal systems can potentially generate six to eight times more electricity than traditional setups, presenting a considerable advantage in areas like Central Oregon where the geographic constraints of traditional geothermal energy are not present. As researchers continue to explore methods for cost-effectiveness, addressing potential challenges like induced seismicity will be crucial for widespread adoption.

The Global Shift Towards Geothermal Energy

It’s worth noting that America isn’t the only country recognizing geothermal energy’s potential. Several nations worldwide are also focusing on diversifying their energy portfolios by harnessing geothermal sources. As the urgency to combat climate change intensifies, geothermal energy may prove to be a cornerstone in the global energy transition.

By evaluating these different approaches—hydrogen versus enhanced geothermal—it becomes evident that each has its own strengths and challenges. As the renewable energy race unfolds, the quest for a sustainable and effective solution to our energy needs continues.