A life-cycle analysis of deep enhanced geothermal systems – The case studies of Reykjanes, Iceland and Vendenheim, France

The climate impacts of deep enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) have been understudied in the academic literature. Using life-cycle analysis (LCA) conducted accordance with ISO 14040 and 14044 standards, this paper explores change two EGS. first study was Reykjanes, Iceland, where a single well, IDDP-2/DEEPEGS, drilled to depth 4.6 km for purposes additional electricity production from an existing power plant. second involved wells side-tracks (depth > 5000 m), serve new heat co-generation plant located on old oil field site Vendenheim, France. Climate sites were estimated range 1.6–17.4 gCO2e/kWh 6.9–13.9 Reykjanes respectively. Although EGS projects are very different, both outcomes low when compared non-renewable alternatives akin best-in-class renewable alternatives. main impact at demonstration greenhouse gas emissions released borehole, effect that could be avoided by carbon capture storage/mineralisation/utilisation. In case further reductions achieved via more extensive adoption circular economy principles design procurement.