The phenomenon of climate change has served as a reminder that it is imperative for humanity to align itself with nature and harness its power sustainably, while ensuring the preservation of ecosystems and the beings that inhabit them. Among the various forms of renewable energy, geothermal energy It often goes unnoticed and is not fully appreciated. Fortunately, scientists have made great strides in researching and improving this source, especially the marine geothermal energy.
In this article, we will explain what marine geothermal energy is, its most important features, and how it can help us combat climate change. You will discover a source of energy that does not stop day or night, and that has the potential to change the global energy landscape.
The immeasurable help that marine geothermal energy provides
Recently, the Compagnie Générale de Géophysique-Veritas (CGG), a leading company in the geophysical sciences sector, has published a fascinating report on the Huge potential of marine geothermal energyThrough their research, CGG scientists have discovered an important energy source beneath the seabed, characterized by a active volcanic activity.
These energy zones are located in what experts call tectonic backgrounds. Their strategic location in various parts of the planet makes them ideal places for the extraction of geothermal energy. In addition, the energy that can be extracted from these areas would not only be used for the production of electricity: it can also be used for Obtaining drinking water and green hydrogen, a key input for the production of clean energy in the future.
The combination of advanced technologies in the fields of engineering, geology, and geophysics, developed by CGG, opens up a range of possibilities in research and monitoring of these offshore energy sources. It is not only about identifying possible exploitation locations, but also ensuring that these resources are extracted and used in a responsible and sustainable manner.
The importance of CGG in the development of marine geothermal energy
The role that CGG plays in the identification of optimal ocean areas for the exploitation of marine geothermal energy is crucial. With more than 25 years of experience in the field, they are well positioned to analyse and develop subsea resources. Peter Whiting, executive vice president of CGG, has commented that geothermal energy is not just a promise, but a key resource for the world's energy future.
A clear example is that the expansion of marine geothermal energy projects would contribute significantly to the Sustainable Development Goals, especially in relation to affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), and climate action (SDG 13). In fact, the Canary Islands In Spain, due to its volcanic nature, they are positioning themselves as pioneers in the implementation of this technology.
The potential of marine geothermal energy
40% of the world's population lives less than 100 kilometers from the coast, which makes evident the enormous potential of the sea as a source of energyAn innovative example of the use of thermal energy from the sea is the project Thassalia, developed by the ENGIE Group, which uses the temperature contrast between the warm surface of the sea and the cold deep waters to generate energy.
Thassalia is the first offshore geothermal project which provides heating, hot water and air conditioning services on a large scale using seawater. The plant in Marseille has the capacity to cover the thermal needs of approximately 500.000 m² of buildings in the region, reducing the greenhouse gas emissions by 70%. In addition to contributing to the fight against climate change, the project also reduces the water consumption by 65%, making it a benchmark for future developments.
Thassalia Offshore Geothermal Project: Pioneer in the Energy Transition
El Thassalia project, located in the port of Marseille, stands out for the extraction of marine thermal energy through 1-kilometre-long pipelines that transport water from the ocean to plants on land. Using heat exchangers, both heating and cooling can be provided to the connected buildings.
The development of this technology involves major technical challenges, such as preventing the corrosion from the pipelines, but the benefits are clear. Unlike other renewable energy sources, marine geothermal energy is not dependent on atmospheric conditions and can generate energy constantly, without interruptions.
This project is a clear example of the potential of marine geothermal technologies, not only as a source of energy, but as a tool for reduce the environmental impact and offer sustainable alternatives in densely populated urban areas.
Advantages and challenges of marine geothermal energy
Marine geothermal energy has several advantages that make it one of the most promising renewable energy sources. Its main benefits include:
- Constant availability: Unlike sources such as solar or wind, marine geothermal energy can provide energy uninterruptedly, without being affected by climatic factors.
- Low environmental impact: As it does not require the burning of fossil fuels, greenhouse gas emissions are extremely low, making marine geothermal energy a sustainable solution to climate change.
- Long-term sustainability: The heat inside the Earth is practically inexhaustible, ensuring the generation of energy for millions of years.
- Freshwater and green hydrogen production: In addition to generating electricity, the process can produce valuable byproducts such as drinking water and hydrogen, which is key to the energy transition.
Despite these advantages, there are still significant challenges to overcome. Finding suitable seabeds for geothermal extraction requires expensive research, and the infrastructure needed to transport this energy to land is not fully developed. However, with technological advances and investment in research, it is possible that these obstacles can be overcome in the coming years.
In short, it is clear that the future of marine geothermal energy is bright. With research such as that of CGG and pioneering projects already underway, this energy source could become a fundamental pillar for sustainable energy production on a global level, helping to curb climate change and providing solutions for future generations.