Geomechanics for the Energy Transition

Geomechanics or rock mechanics is a branch of mechanics that provides theoretical and applied science for predicting mechanical behavior of rock formation in response to changes in their physical environment. These changes include changes in the stress field, pore pressure, and/or temperature that may be applied naturally or artificially by subsurface operations such as drilling, completions, fracturing, production, injection etc. For the last half-century, geomechanics has been helping the oil and gas industry significantly to improve the safety and economics of subsurface operations.

With the increased drive for transition to renewable energy options and considering the net-zero carbon emissions goal by 2050, commercial development of geothermal energy and carbon storage projects seems to be crucial. Successful development of these projects are, however, directly related to our understanding of in-situ stresses and properties of rock formations. Thus, geomechanics will play a major role in transitioning toward green energy, decarbonization of the energy sector through CCS, and in ensuring that the changing balance of the energy mix occurs in a safe and environmentally responsible way.

This webinar will describe the role that geomechanics can play in energy transition with special attention to geothermal, CCS and subsurface energy storage. It also proposes some future trends needed for geomechanics to be better adapted for the transition needs.

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