The Uncharted Path to Carbon Neutrality

Solution

Geothermal energy isn’t just viable, it’s also reliable, forming the backbone of steady electricity output. The crux of our solution lies in an innovative approach towards minimising carbon emissions from geothermal power plants. Our strategy is to return the GHG back to their origins – the geothermal reservoirs – by capitalising on a process identified as reinjecting and mineral trapping.

This technique comes with the additional opportunity offered by the waste geothermal water, a potential means of dissolving and permanently capturing GHG before reinjection. We are developing procedures for non-ideal rock formations by introducing specific materials to the geothermal water being reinjected. The aim is to provoke the ideal fluid-rock interaction, initiating permanent storage via mineral entrapment where desired.

Every aspect of our research focuses on addressing the intricate scientific and engineering challenges involved in returning GHG to their geothermal sources and other potential underground locations. A critical component to this project is the dissemination of our findings to the wider community and establish a strong knowledge transfer to new end users. We’re unlocking the potential of Māori resources that have remained largely untapped, fuelling not just the technical research for ‘carbon-negative’ energy, but also underpinning economic growth, knowledge expansion, job creation, all while preserving our environment.