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Geothermal Frontier – Beta

This is an integrated knowledge and data sharing platform that aggregates global datasets on institutional research capacity and country-level geothermal profiles. It is designed to support cross-sector collaboration and the advancement of next-generation geothermal technologies. The platform facilitates access to structured data, technical insights, and networked expertise to accelerate the development of higher-enthalpy resources and drive cost-competitive deployment at scale.

Alaska Department of Natural Resources

Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys

Institution Type: Government organization

Institution Website

Fairbanks, USA

Contact

John C Eichelberger
Geothermal Program Manager
john.eichelberger@alaska.gov

Areas of Expertise

  • Resource Characterization & Modeling
  • Drilling & Well Design
  • Monitoring & Instrumentation
  • Reservoir Creation & Management
  • Engineering & Power Generation

Resource Characterization & Modeling

This area focuses on identifying, assessing, and modeling geothermal resources to understand their size, temperature, and viability. It supports better decision-making by improving predictions of subsurface conditions and resource potential.

  • Exploration, Appraisal, Site Selection Active
  • Geological Modeling Active
  • Geophysical Modeling Active
  • Reservoir Modeling Planned
  • Coupled Process Modeling Planned
  • Crustal Stress, Geomechanics/Rock Mechanics Planned
  • Water/Rock Geochemistry Planned
  • Seismic Risk & Mitigation Planned
  • Environmental Risk Assessment Planned
Multi-spectral scanner for drill core
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously No
Numerical modeling of superhot geothermal systems
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously No

Drilling & Well Design

This area covers technologies and expertise needed to safely and efficiently access geothermal resources at depth. It includes innovations in drilling methods, materials, and well design and construction to reduce costs and effectively reach higher-enthalpy systems in more geologic regions.

  • Conventional Rotary Drilling Planned
  • Energy Drilling Planned
  • Hybrid Systems Planned
  • Well Completion (Cements, Liners, Flow Control) Planned
  • Casing Materials (Thermal Stresses, Corrosion, Abrasion) Planned
  • Advanced Materials for Drilling & Well Integrity Planned

Monitoring & Instrumentation

This area enables real-time measurement and analysis of geothermal systems through advanced sensors and data tools. It supports performance optimization, risk reduction, and improved understanding of subsurface behavior over time.

  • Downhole Sensors Planned
  • Electrical Components for Geothermal Wells Planned
  • Fiber Optic Sensing Systems (DTS, DAS, DSS) Planned
  • Real-Time Telemetry & Data Acquisition Systems Planned
  • Acoustic Emission Monitoring Planned
  • High-Temperature Electronics for Sensors & Data Systems Planned
  • Borehole Imaging Technologies Planned
  • Environmental Monitoring Planned
  • Permanent Surface Passive Seismic Array Planned

Reservoir Creation & Management

This area focuses on developing and sustaining productive geothermal systems, including enhanced and closed-loop systems. It involves techniques to develop the geothermal reservoir, manage the system, and optimize fluid flow and heat extraction over the project’s life.

  • EGS (Hydraulic Stimulation, Zonal Isolation, High-Temp Proppants) Planned
  • Closed-Loop Systems Planned

Engineering & Power Generation

This area addresses the conversion of geothermal heat into usable energy through plant design and system integration. It includes advancements in power cycles, efficiency improvements, and technologies for reliable, cost-competitive electricity generation.

  • Surface Engineering (Piping, Turbines, Power Plant Components) Active
  • Power Production (Grid Connection/Integration) Active
  • Heat Exchange & Thermal Management Technologies Active
  • Opportunities for Co-Production Active
  • Integration with Hydrogen or Thermal Energy Storage Systems Active
Superhot/magma drilling
Max Temperature (°C) 900
Max Pressure (MPa) 50
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes

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