Australia Explores Superhot Rock Geothermal

Researchers with the Clean Air Task Force and collaborators are assessing the potential of superhot rock geothermal energy in Australia. The team completed the first global overview of this energy source, even in areas without volcanic activity. Geothermal energy uses heat from underground to create electricity, offering a steady power source unlike wind or solar.

Conventional geothermal plants operate in over 40 countries, but currently provide only about 1% of global renewable electricity. New drilling techniques now allow access to superhot rocks at depths of up to 5 kilometers, potentially reaching 10 kilometers in the future. Water heated to these temperatures transforms into a supercritical fluid, increasing energy output tenfold.

However, maintaining well flow and pressure over time remains a challenge. Early estimates suggest that tapping just 1% of Australia’s superhot rocks could power the nation twenty times over, but upfront costs and a lack of private investment currently hinder development. Australia’s mining expertise could help scale up this industry and offer new opportunities for workers.