WorldWide Drilling Resource

&DUROLQH 6WUHHW 3XQ[VXWDZQH\ 3$ :HE 6LWH KWWS ZZZ VWDULURQZRUNV FRP ( PDLO VDOHV#VWDULURQZRUNV FRP )$; To be noticed, give us a call: (850) 547-0102 or e-mail: wwdr@ worldwidedrillingresource.com 12 JUNE 2019 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® The Pathway to Successful Widespread EGS Begins with Research Adapted from Information by the Geothermal Technologies Office The Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO) has introduced the Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE) Roadmap. This roadmap will outline research and development activities which will strengthen our understanding of enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) that could unlock 500 gigawatts of electricity in the United States. FORGE is a unique field laboratory located in Milford, Utah, dedicated to researching EGS. The roadmap was developed by the Science and Technology Policy Institute (STPI) in conjunction with the geothermal industry. The institute focused on re- search recommendations for making EGS an affordable, sustainable, and reliable method of producing electricity. Development included detailed literature and program reviews, months of interviews, and a capstone roundtable with EGS research experts from academia, industry, national laboratories, and government. FORGE’s five-year operation will help tackle key challenges and help fill in the scientific knowledge gaps which are pre- venting EGS from widespread use throughout the country. The roadmap plots the way with actions categorized into three sec- tions: Critical Research Areas; Enabling R&D (Research and Development); and Implementation Principles. Each of these areas represent a primary focus for FORGE and include tasks such as developing new well configurations and well field de- signs for optimal reservoir stimulation; new and revised fractur- ing technologies and procedures; as well as developing reservoir management processes and tools. The Critical Research Areas are: Stimulation Planning and Design - This is research for designing and stimulating wells according to the natural un- derground characteristics of the area. Fracture Control - This area will focus on developing an optimal fracture network while increasing the understanding of resulting fracture systems. Reservoir Management - Once a well is developed, sustaining the long-term heat exchange in the system must be re- searched. This area of research will help scientists predict and monitor changes in the reservoir. FORGE’s overall mission is to enable advanced research, drilling, and technology testing to improve current EGS tech- nology. If FORGE can successfully execute the core research actions and research implementation principles, it can chart a pathway to success for developing EGS across the country and the world. GEO