What's Your Problem? Drilling Smarter Wells to Unleash Geothermal Energy
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Aug 28, 2025 Carl Hoiland, co-founder and CEO of Zanskar, shares his insights on revolutionizing geothermal energy. He discusses groundbreaking techniques to locate steam deposits beneath the earth's surface, highlighting the advances in AI and probabilistic modeling that enhance drilling precision. Carl recounts the thrilling challenges of geothermal well drilling and the emotional stakes involved. He underscores the potential of geothermal energy in the clean energy transition and how these innovations could reshape the industry in the future.
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Geothermal Fills Renewable Gaps
- Geothermal offers reliable baseload power that complements intermittent wind and solar.
- This steadiness becomes more valuable as solar and batteries scale and face seasonal gaps.
Grandfather Sparked A Geology Career
- Carl Hoiland learned geology from his grandfather, a uranium and gold prospector, which sparked his lifelong interest.
- That early exposure led him to pursue geology academically and eventually focus on geothermal.
Economics Drove Geothermal Waves
- Geothermal development stalled historically because economic drivers shifted when oil and gas got cheap.
- Renewed drivers now include carbon reduction, domestic supply, and the need for dispatchable power.