Materials.Business Newsletter ⚙️
February 20th, 2025
Podcast Guest: Andy Wood
Video in English you can add subtitles in any language - see below to learn how!
In the latest episode of the Material Business Podcast, host Monica Hernandez welcomes back Andy Wood from Primeval Energy to delve into the fascinating world of geothermal energy. Andy, who previously appeared on the podcast, shares his extensive experience and insights into the potential and challenges of geothermal energy.
Key Discussion Points:
From Oil and Gas to Geothermal
Andy Wood began his career in the oil and gas industry, working as a junior geologist on oil rigs in the North Sea. Despite the harsh conditions, he found the work exhilarating and eventually moved into management roles focused on cost reduction and operational optimization. His passion for the environment led him to transition to geothermal energy, where he could apply his expertise in drilling and optimization to a more sustainable energy source.
According to Andy, geothermal energy is highly beneficial because it can be used anywhere in the world, not just in traditional hotspots like Iceland or the western United States. It offers a sustainable and reliable energy source that can significantly reduce carbon footprints. Geothermal energy is considered clean because it produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, and it leverages existing technologies from the oil and gas industry to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. As Andy puts it,
"By reducing the time that you spend drilling wells, it's actually a positive environmental impact." Andy W.
The Role of Technology Transfer
Andy emphasizes the importance of leveraging oil and gas technologies to make geothermal energy more commercially viable. He highlights how companies like Fervo and Evor have successfully applied directional drilling and other oil and gas technologies to geothermal projects.
"By reducing the time that you spend drilling wells, it's actually a positive environmental impact," Andy W.
Challenges in Geothermal Energy
Funding and awareness are two major challenges facing the geothermal industry. Andy points out that while geothermal energy has significant potential, it often lacks the financial support and public awareness needed to scale up. And that is why we are repeating this episode, so we have increased awareness from an expert like Andy. He also discusses the historical failure rates of geothermal projects and how modern technologies and better subsurface modeling can mitigate these risks.
Opportunities for Growth
Despite challenges, and as many other guest from the Materials.Business podcast have pointed out, the opportunities are just surfacing. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that geothermal energy could contribute 15% of global energy by 2050, up from the current 0.3%. This growth potential is driven by the increasing application of geothermal energy for both electricity generation and direct heating and cooling. Andy shares examples of innovative geothermal projects around the world, including in the Middle East, where geothermal energy is being used for air conditioning and agricultural applications.
The Importance of Collaboration
Andy highlights the collaborative nature of the geothermal industry, where companies openly share technologies and best practices to advance the field. This spirit of cooperation is essential for overcoming the challenges and maximizing the opportunities in geothermal energy.
"We need to work together. We need to learn from what has happened in the past so we don't repeat the same mistakes," says Monica.
The future of geothermal energy looks promising, with increasing interest from investors and growing awareness of its potential. Andy believes that geothermal energy will become a significant part of the global energy mix, providing clean and sustainable energy solutions.
"Tell your friends about geothermal energy. If I have one message, it's always that one: awareness, awareness, awareness," Andy W..
The conversation with Andy Wood provides a comprehensive look at the current state and future potential of geothermal energy. His insights underscore the importance of technology transfer, collaboration, and awareness in driving the growth of this sustainable energy source. As the world continues to seek cleaner and more efficient energy solutions, geothermal energy stands out as a promising option with immense potential.
#GeothermalEnergy #SustainableEnergy #RenewableEnergy #CleanEnergy #EnergyTransition #PrimevalEnergy #MaterialBusinessPodcast
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Andy describes himself as a Cornish, Vegetarian Eco-Warrior and an Energy Pragmatist. He has a BSc (Hons) in Earth Science from Queen Mary College (University of London) and 30+ years Upstream Oil & Gas experience, specifically in Subsurface, Drilling & Wells. Andy transitioned to Geothermal Energy in 2020, applying his wells knowledge, optimisation and communications skills. Today Andy is Chief Executive Officer of Primeval Energy, a Technology Agnostic Geothermal Development company.
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If you are watching the episode on YouTube, you can translate to almost ANY language, here is how:
- Open any video on YouTube.
- Click the CC button so it is underlined in red.
- Click the Settings (Gear) Button.
- Click Subtitles.
- Click Auto-translate.
- Choose a Language.
Why Join the Materials.Business Community?
We asked our guest....
Andy listens to the podcast because it spreads awareness and knowledge about various scientific and technological advancements. He appreciates that it provides a platform where experts can share their passions and insights, helping listeners learn about important topics they might not be aware of. Andy finds the podcast mesmerizing because it covers a wide range of subjects that contribute to the future of the planet. He's encouraging the listeners to do the same because the podcast is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding and supporting sustainable practices and innovations.
"I first listened to one of your podcasts because you invited me on as a guest. I was kind of mesmerized by the fact that you're looking at so many different things. It's all really just about spreading awareness." - Andy W.
Joining this community isn’t just about staying informed—it’s about contributing to a collective effort to shape a more sustainable, inclusive, and innovative future in the materials industry. Ready to be part of this community?
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