Closed-Loop Geothermal Gains Traction

Italian and Canadian companies are developing closed-loop geothermal technology as a renewable energy source. This system functions like a large underground thermosiphon.

A fluid circulates through deep, horizontal branches within hot rocks. The fluid heats, rises, and returns to the surface to generate electricity or heat buildings.

The technology represents a recent evolution in geothermal energy. Traditional geothermal plants in Tuscany, Italy, released gases into the atmosphere and depleted the resource. Closed-loop systems keep the working fluid contained, reducing emissions and improving control.

Eavor, a Canadian firm, built an advanced plant in Geretsried, Bavaria. It has a capacity of about 8.2 megawatts and aims to produce roughly 77,000 MWh annually.

This could power 18,000 to 20,000 homes and provide thermal energy to city heating networks. Unlike some experimental methods, this system does not require hydraulic fracturing of rocks. Further research focuses on accessing previously unusable geothermal resources.