Superhot rock energy is generated by inserting water deep underground where temperatures are extremely high (above 400°C), where it is converted into steam, which spins a turbine to generate electricity. This water doesn’t need to be potable and is reused and sent down the injection well to be heated again. This source of energy emits zero carbon, is available around the clock regardless of environmental factors, and can be accessed all around the world.

Superhot rock energy is more versatile and efficient than geothermal. Existing geothermal systems were only capable of providing 16 gigawatts of power globally in 2021, which is less than .2% of power currently used globally. Superhot rock energy, on the other hand, is not limited to the areas geothermal energy is restricted to, as it does not require extreme heat near the surface. It also requires less space than other energy systems due to drilling methods that minimize land use. It also has the capacity to produce a lot more energy. A test involving a well in Iceland suggested that one well could produce 36 megawatts of energy, which is 5-10 times the output of the average 3-5 megawatt commercial well. Once commercialized, superhot rock energy is estimated to have an average cost of electricity of $20-35/MWhr, which is less than the average market price of $40/MWhr.

Although there are no operational superhot rock wells, there are several efforts that are working on getting the ball rolling. CATF presents demonstrations of power production to those involved in energy production and investment in order to grow support and funds. Drilling methods, tools, and other engineering challenges still require further development, which can be expedited with this investment. With enough support, swiftly reviewed regulations, and technological advancements, it is possible for this form of energy to be commercialized in the 2030s.

I’m so glad to finally release this edition on super hot rock energy! It’s such a cool concept and in surprised I hadn’t heard about it at all prior to researching CATF. It has so many amazing qualities and I really hope it gets the support it needs to become commercialized. I’m glad that I’ve chosen CATF as the organization my jewelry business sponsors. I’m so proud to contribute to the development of such a promising source of energy!

Thank you for reading this article, and stay turned to learn with me!

https://www.catf.us/superhot-rock/ and related pages.