Aerial view of a drilling rig from Nabors Industries where Quaise Energy is installing millimeter wave capabilities. Work at Nevada Gold Mines will require a similar setup to develop deep geothermal energy onsite
The collaboration will evaluate Quaise’s innovative gyrotron-based drilling technology, which employs high-frequency millimeter-wave energy to vaporize rock, allowing access to geothermal heat at depths of up to 10 km. This approach targets high-temperature zones that are challenging to reach with traditional drilling methods, leveraging Japan’s significant geothermal potential.
Tohoku Electric Power aims to utilize this technology to tap into previously inaccessible heat sources, enhancing the country’s renewable energy capabilities. Mitsubishi Corporation, a recent investor in Quaise, will facilitate efforts to commercialize the technology in Japan, ensuring its compatibility with the nation’s unique geological conditions. The project seeks to integrate these advancements into future power generation or heat supply systems.
A spokesperson from Tohoku Electric Power stated: “This collaboration with Quaise Energy and Mitsubishi Corporation represents a significant step toward unlocking Japan’s deep geothermal resources, contributing to sustainable energy solutions.”
Mitsubishi Corporation’s representative added: “By supporting Quaise’s innovative drilling technology, we aim to accelerate the development of geothermal energy in Japan, aligning with national efforts to promote cleaner energy sources.”
The initiative supports Japan’s broader objective of expanding geothermal energy use to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, particularly in industrial and remote areas. By exploring cutting-edge drilling methods, the partnership aims to enhance the efficiency and scalability of geothermal energy production, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.
