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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.

Pennsylvania State University

G3 Center and Rock Mechanics Lab

Institution Type: Academia

Institution Website

University Park, USA

Contact

Derek Elsworth
Professor
elsworth@psu.edu

Areas of Expertise

  • Resource Characterization & Modeling
  • Monitoring & Instrumentation

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.

  • Geophysical Modeling Active
  • Coupled Process Modeling Active
  • Crustal Stress, Geomechanics/Rock Mechanics Active
  • Seismic Risk & Mitigation Active
  • High-Performance Computing (HPC) for Coupled or Multiphysics Simulations Active
High-temperature and high-pressure reactivation of faults/fractures for seismic risk
Max Temperature (°C) 200
Max Pressure (MPa) 100
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes
Concurrent multiphase flow modeling & analysis
Max Temperature (°C) 200
Max Pressure (MPa) 100
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes
Passive and active acoustics
Max Temperature (°C) 200
Max Pressure (MPa) 100
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes

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.

  • Fiber Optic Sensing Systems (DTS, DAS, DSS) Active
  • Acoustic Emission Monitoring Active
Machine Learning to link MEQs to permeability evolution
Max Temperature (°C) 200
Max Pressure (MPa) 100
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes

No projects have been submitted

Please share your organization’s geothermal projects to inform and engage the broader geothermal community.

Submitting your projects will help raise awareness of your work, foster collaboration, and advance the field of geothermal energy.

You may submit multiple projects using the form below. All submissions will be published following administrative review.

Submit a project