China’s first supercritical carbon dioxide geothermal energy extraction project officially commenced operation in Zhengzhou, Henan Province, marking a new breakthrough in the efficient development and utilization of geothermal energy in China. Unlike traditional geothermal energy extraction, this project uses supercritical carbon dioxide instead of water as the heat transfer medium. The supercritical carbon dioxide is transported to the bottom of the geothermal well, absorbs underground heat, and then returns to the surface to supply heating water.
Innovative Medium: Supercritical carbon dioxide has a high density and low flow resistance, resulting in higher heat transfer efficiency than water, and no groundwater is extracted throughout the process.
Closed-Loop System: Carbon dioxide circulates and absorbs heat in a 2500-meter-deep well, transfers heat energy through heat exchange equipment, and is then pressurized and returned to the surface.
Carbon Reduction Target: Replaces 288 tons of standard coal annually, equivalent to a reduction of 750 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
Geological Safety: Avoids the risks of groundwater pollution and geological disturbance associated with traditional geothermal development.
