The phenomenon of climate change has served as a stark 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 often goes unnoticed and is not fully appreciated. Fortunately, scientists have made tremendous progress in researching and improving this source, especially 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, Compagnie Générale de Géophysique-Veritas (CGG) , a leading company in the field of geophysical sciences, published a fascinating report on the enormous potential of marine geothermal energy . Through their research, CGG scientists have discovered a significant energy source beneath the seabed, characterized by active volcanic activity.
These energy zones are located in what experts call tectonic plates . Their strategic location in various parts of the planet makes them ideal for geothermal energy extraction. Furthermore, the energy that can be extracted from these areas could not only be used for electricity production but also to obtain potable water and green hydrogen , a key input for clean energy production 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 for research and monitoring of these offshore energy sources. It's not just about identifying potential locations for development, but also about ensuring that these resources are extracted and used responsibly and sustainably.
The importance of CGG in the development of marine geothermal energy
CGG plays a crucial role in identifying optimal ocean areas for offshore geothermal energy development. With over 25 years of experience in the field, they are well-positioned to analyze and develop these resources. Peter Whiting, CGG's Executive Vice President, 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 offshore geothermal energy projects would contribute significantly to the Sustainable Development Goals , especially those related to clean and affordable energy (SDG 7) and climate action (SDG 13). In fact, the Canary Islands in Spain, due to their volcanic nature, are positioning themselves as pioneers in the implementation of this technology.
The potential of marine geothermal energy
Forty percent of the world's population lives within 100 kilometers of the coast, highlighting the enormous potential of the sea as an energy source . An innovative example of harnessing ocean thermal energy is the Thassalia project , developed by the ENGIE Group , which uses the temperature contrast between the warm surface of the sea and the cold deep waters to generate power.
Thassalia is the first marine geothermal project to provide large-scale heating, hot water, and air conditioning using seawater. The plant in Marseille has the capacity to meet the heating and cooling needs of approximately 500.000 m² of buildings in the region, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 70% . In addition to contributing to the fight against climate change, the project also reduces water consumption by 65% , making it a benchmark for future developments.
Thassalia Offshore Geothermal Project: Pioneer in the Energy Transition
The Thassalia project , located in the port of Marseille, is notable for its extraction of marine thermal energy through a 1-kilometer-long pipeline that transports ocean water to onshore facilities. Heat exchangers then provide both heating and cooling to connected buildings.
Developing this technology involves significant technical challenges, such as preventing pipe corrosion , but the benefits are clear. Unlike other renewable energy sources, marine geothermal energy is not dependent on atmospheric conditions and can generate power continuously, without interruption.
This project is a clear example of the potential of marine geothermal technologies, not only as an energy source, but also as a tool to reduce 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.