In a new collaboration, Google Australia has joined forces with the University of Newcastle to investigate Australia’s untapped geothermal energy resources.
This partnership, part of Google’s Digital Future Initiative, aims to analyse the feasibility of harnessing Earth’s heat as a renewable energy source in Australia.
The research study, led by Associate Professor Elham Doroodchi from the University’s Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER) in collaboration with Solution Energy, will inform Google’s global efforts to develop and scale geothermal technologies.
This initiative supports Google’s ambitious goal to operate carbon-free by 2030.
Associate Professor Doroodchi expressed optimism about accessing geothermal reservoirs in Australia, stating: “Reservoirs of heat are varying in temperature and depth — they can exist anywhere from several hundred metres to several kilometres below the surface of Earth.”
However, she acknowledged the challenges in implementing conventional geothermal production methods in Australia due to the country’s unique geology and environmental conditions.
The study will explore how cutting-edge research and technology can address these hurdles and identify feasible locations for geothermal energy production.
Doroodchi emphasised the reliability of geothermal energy, describing it as “an excellent source of reliable, round-the-clock clean energy to decarbonise Australia’s electricity grid”.
Professor Alan Broadfoot, Executive Director of NIER, highlighted the institute’s commitment to renewable energy innovation.
He stated: “This project aligns perfectly with our mission to drive sustainable energy solutions, and we are excited to work with Google Australia to make this pioneering initiative a reality.”
Giorgio Fortunato, Head of Clean Energy & Power at Google Asia-Pacific, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, viewing it as an investment in Australia’s future to build a resilient and clean power grid.
The partnership between Google Australia and the University of Newcastle represents a significant step towards unlocking Australia’s geothermal energy potential and advancing the nation’s clean energy goals.
