The role of Enhanced Geothermal Systems in the energy transition at Cornell -- Report of a workshop held at Cornell University, Ithaca, October 23-24, 2024

TL;DR

This report summarizes a workshop at Cornell University discussing the scientific, technological, regulatory, and societal aspects of deploying Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) as a climate change mitigation strategy.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of lessons learned, challenges, and future research directions for implementing EGS at Cornell and beyond.

Findings

Feasibility of EGS for heat use at Cornell assessed

Key scientific and technological breakthroughs identified

Strategic plan for future EGS research and deployment proposed

Abstract

To review the lessons learnt from recent deep geothermal case studies and plan strategically the research, development, regulation, and communication work required for the implementation of an Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) at Cornell University, a group of engineers and scholars convened a two-day workshop on the Ithaca campus, on October 23-24, 2024. The event was funded by Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability. This report is a summary of the content of the presentations and discussions that took place during the workshop. The first section focuses on philosophical, sociological, economic, and regulatory questions posed by EGS deployment as a means to mitigate climate change. The second section tackles the scientific and technological research areas associated with EGS. The third section aims to assess the feasibility of developing EGS for heat direct use at Cornell University, based on results and information available to date. The report concludes with a summary of the most salient technological and scientific breakthroughs, and a plan for future technological and academic engagement in EGS projects at Cornell.