The COMPASS project was launched to address the challenges of harnessing superhot geothermal energy, which holds immense untapped potential for clean power. Traditional geothermal wells, especially those in deep, superhot zones where temperatures exceed 450°C, are associated with high drilling costs. While these wells can produce much higher energy outputs than standard geothermal wells, existing technologies for well construction, particularly for casing and cementing, are not designed for these extreme conditions. This technological gap has hindered the widespread exploitation of superhot geothermal energy.
Coordinated by ON Power (Iceland), the COMPASS project is backed by a strong consortium of international partners. The team includes leading experts in geothermal energy, drilling technology, material science, and social sciences. Key partners include Reykjavik Energy (OR), Iceland Geosurvey (ISOR), and Geothermal Research Cluster (GEORG) from Iceland, along with TWI Ltd (UK), Hornet Laser Cladding B.V. (Netherlands), CURISTEC (France), Technovative Solutions (TVS) (UK), COSVIG (Italy), and SINTEF AS (Norway).
SINTEF is leading the development of high-temperature cement retarders to ensure reliable cementing, and development of an integrated well design and decision-support tool to evaluate new geothermal well concepts. This tool, built on the Casinteg software results from the IPN HotCaSe project, will assess mechanical well integrity, cost, and environmental impact. Additionally, the project will develop and test innovative solutions such as flexible foam cements, corrosion-resistant cladding for well casings, and systems to relieve annular pressure, all aimed at enhancing the longevity and reliability of geothermal wells.
With a total budget of 5 million euros, the COMPASS project is a collaborative effort to develop cost-effective and innovative drilling and well completion technologies that will unlock the potential of superhot geothermal energy. By enhancing well integrity, reducing drilling costs, and minimizing environmental impacts, the project aims to make geothermal energy a more reliable and sustainable solution, contributing to the global transition toward cleaner energy.
