Core Viewpoint - Geothermal energy is recognized as a stable and clean energy source, with significant potential for development, especially with the advent of innovative technologies like microwave drilling [1][12][32] Group 1: Geothermal Energy Overview - Geothermal energy is derived from the Earth's internal heat, with core temperatures reaching up to 6000°C, comparable to the sun's surface [3] - The total geothermal heat content of the Earth is estimated at 14.5×10²⁵ joules, equivalent to 50 trillion tons of standard coal, which could sustain global consumption for 620,000 years [5] - The Earth's geothermal energy is continuously released due to the decay of radioactive elements, ensuring a stable supply for at least 2.3 billion years [6][30] Group 2: Challenges in Geothermal Development - Traditional drilling techniques face significant challenges due to extreme temperatures and pressures at depths, often leading to equipment failure [10][28] - The Kola Superdeep Borehole project exemplifies the difficulties, taking 24 years and over $350 million to reach only 61% of its target depth [10] - High costs associated with materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions, such as nickel-based alloys, further complicate geothermal energy development [28] Group 3: Innovations in Geothermal Technology - Quaise Energy's microwave drilling technology offers a promising solution, significantly reducing drill bit wear by 90% and increasing drilling efficiency [15][20] - The technology allows for deeper drilling, with plans to reach depths of 15,000 to 20,000 meters by 2028, which could revolutionize geothermal energy extraction [18][20] - Successful laboratory results indicate that this method can penetrate 20 meters of granite in one hour, three times faster than traditional methods [17] Group 4: Global Geothermal Energy Applications - The Geysers geothermal field in the U.S. is the largest geothermal power plant cluster, with a capacity of 3.7 GW, supplying 6% of California's electricity [22] - Iceland's geothermal energy utilization includes high-efficiency power generation and innovative agricultural applications, demonstrating the resource's versatility [24] - China has made significant strides in geothermal energy, with projects in Tibet and Xiong'an New Area showcasing its potential for sustainable energy development [26] Group 5: Future Outlook - As technology advances, particularly with microwave drilling, the geothermal energy sector is expected to grow, becoming a core component of sustainable energy solutions [30][32] - The global focus on geothermal energy is likely to increase investment and interest, leading to new opportunities and challenges in the industry [30][32]