Integrating geothermal energy and carbon capture and storage technologies: A review
Annick Loschetter, Christophe Kervévan, Rowena Stead, Thomas Le Guénan, Chrystel Dezayes, N.F. Clarke
Abstract
Geothermal energy production and CO 2 capture and storage are two promising technological solutions for mitigating climate change and addressing the need for a sustainable global energy supply. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of concepts that combine and integrate these technologies. A comprehensive literature review has been conducted, resulting in the mapping of fifteen hybrid concepts. Certain concepts use supercritical CO 2 as the heat vector, some inject dissolved CO 2 into the geothermal brine , and others propose the separate use of distinct fluids for each purpose. Subsurface competition among the concepts is lower than could be initially expected: even if some concepts target similar formations at different depths and temperatures, a number of concepts are designed for specific subsurface characteristics. Besides, the concepts integrate differently into the value chains of CO 2 capture and storage and provide different energy services. Most technologies are at low-to-intermediate maturity levels. Scaling up of these technologies would require addressing technical and non-technical challenges that share several similarities. Recommendations include promoting demonstration projects, fostering collaborative research, proposing incentives for CO 2 storage or emissions reduction, and advocating for a more flexible regulatory framework for hybrid applications. Through a series of carefully designed infographics, this work aims at providing a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals, facilitating a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the full spectrum of hybrid concepts.