Geothermal Fracking: Clean Energy or Earthquake Maker?

Emerging Tech Debates

This podcast episode examines enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), a technology also known as geothermal fracking that aims to increase access to geothermal energy beyond naturally occurring sites by creating underground reservoirs. It highlights the potential of EGS as a reliable and clean energy source that can provide continuous power, unlike intermittent renewables. However, the document also addresses significant concerns regarding induced seismicity, explaining how injecting high-pressure fluids can trigger earthquakes by affecting geological faults and referencing past instances potentially linked to geothermal projects. Ultimately, the report considers the balance between the benefits of expanded geothermal energy production and the associated seismic risks, discussing mitigation strategies and regulatory frameworks designed to manage these hazards.