Futures

Zanskar’s Groundbreaking Geothermal Discovery in Nevada: A New Era for Blind Systems, (from page 20251228.)

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Summary

Zanskar, a geothermal startup using AI, announced a significant geothermal discovery in Nevada, marking the first viable site for a power plant in decades. Geothermal energy, which relies on steam generated from underground hot water, offers a renewable energy source without extensive mining. Most geothermal systems are deep underground and difficult to find, leading to a history of accidental discoveries. Zanskar’s technology, based on extensive geological data, helps identify potential blind systems previously ignored. While enthusiasm grows for enhanced geothermal systems, Zanskar emphasizes the vast untapped potential in blind systems, with estimates suggesting they could provide significantly more energy than previously thought, potentially powering millions of homes.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
AI-assisted geothermal resource identification Zanskar uses AI to locate hidden geothermal resources more effectively. Shifting from random discovery of geothermal sites to systematic identification using advanced technology. In 10 years, geothermal energy could become a major renewable energy source due to improved site identification. Advancements in AI and geological data analysis are driving this change. 4
Resurgence of geothermal energy interest Growing excitement and investment in geothermal energy following decades of neglect. Transitioning from undervalued and abandoned technology to a competitive renewable energy option. Geothermal energy could contribute significantly to the renewable energy mix in the US. Increasing demand for sustainable energy sources and energy security pushes this resurgence. 4
Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) hype Public focus shifting toward EGS technologies, overshadowing blind geothermal systems. Shifting excitement from traditional geothermal to more complex and processed technologies like EGS. EGS may dominate geothermal discussions, but blind systems could reveal greater potential. The pursuit of innovation and solutions for deeper resource tapping drives focus away from traditional methods. 3
Underestimated potential of blind geothermal systems Research suggests much higher potential for blind geothermal resources than previously thought. Changing from a 30 GW potential estimate to a potential of 100s of GW based on new findings. Policies and investments may shift drastically to tap into the much larger unutilized geothermal potential. Advances in drilling technology and geological understanding fuel reevaluation of blind systems’ viability. 5
Geothermal’s untapped potential in the Western US Many hidden geothermal systems remain unexplored, suggesting vast energy potential. From minimal utilization to recognizing Western US as a hotspot for renewable geothermal energy production. The Western US could become a leading region for geothermal energy, significantly impacting energy supply. Geological data and improved identification methods promote exploration of these hidden resources. 4

Concerns

name description
Dependence on AI for Geothermal Discovery Relying heavily on AI to identify geothermal resources may lead to overconfidence and potentially overlooking critical geological factors.
Environmental Concerns of Enhanced Geothermal Systems The push for enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) raises concerns about water usage, seismic activity, and ecological impacts due to rock fracturing.
Underestimation of Geothermal Potential Misjudgment in the capacity of geothermal resources, particularly blind systems, may hinder investment and development in renewable energy.
Neglect of Traditional Geothermal Systems Overemphasis on new technologies like EGS might undermine investments and advancements in traditional geothermal systems, risking underutilization of existing resources.
Funding Instability for Geothermal Research Historical fluctuations in government and private funding for geothermal research could limit long-term advancements and sustainability in the sector.
Market Signal Risks Prematurely signaling geothermal potential might lead to speculative investments lacking foundational validation, resulting in financial losses.
Public Perception of Geothermal Viability Misleading narratives around geothermal energy’s potential could lead to public disillusionment if expectations are not met.

Behaviors

name description
AI-Driven Resource Discovery Using artificial intelligence to identify hidden geothermal resources more effectively than traditional methods.
Revitalization of Geothermal Energy A renewed interest and investment in geothermal energy as a viable renewable resource, overcoming prior negative perceptions.
Methodical Exploration Techniques Applying systematic approaches for discovering geothermal systems, potentially reducing risks and costs associated with exploration.
Leveraging Historical Data Using past research and geological data to inform current explorations for geothermal resources.
Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) vs. Blind Systems Debate between focusing on new technologies like EGS versus exploring untapped blind geothermal systems.
Potential underestimation of Energy Resources Recognizing that existing estimates for geothermal energy potential may be significantly underestimated, highlighting greater untapped resources.

Technologies

name description
AI-Enhanced Geothermal Resource Identification Leveraging AI to analyze geological data for discovering hidden geothermal resources, improving discovery accuracy and reducing costs.
Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) A technology that creates geothermal potential through processes similar to fracking, helping to harness geothermal energy without relying on natural hot springs.
Deep-drilling Technologies for Geothermal Energy Advanced drilling technologies enabling deeper access to hotter geothermal resources, increasing the potential for energy harnessing.

Issues

name description
Resurgence of Geothermal Energy Geothermal energy, once deemed unviable, is experiencing renewed interest due to AI technology enabling new resource detection.
AI in Geothermal Resource Identification The application of AI in mapping and identifying geothermal resources represents a significant technological advancement for the industry.
Blind Geothermal Systems Unidentified geothermal systems may hold vast energy potential, suggesting a significant untapped resource in renewable energy.
Shift from Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) Rising focus on enhanced geothermal systems technology may divert attention from exploring traditional blind systems.
Potential Underestimation of Geothermal Resources Current estimates of geothermal resources may be significantly low, highlighting a need for reevaluation of energy potential.
Funding and Investment in Geothermal Research Historically, geothermal research has been underfunded compared to other energy technologies, impacting potential advancements.
Impact of Seismic Activity in EGS Concerns regarding low-level seismic activity from enhanced geothermal systems need to be addressed to ensure safety and public acceptance.