CHERT: Intelligent Thermal Energy Harvesting and Storage for Deep Drilling Operations

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Deep drilling operations are an essential part of the global energy supply, whether for oil and gas extraction or for the emerging geothermal energy market. Modern operations rely on complex sensors and equipment deep in the well ("downhole") to evaluate the condition of the well and surrounding geology, but these need a reliable power source. Few technologies can tolerate the extreme downhole environment, with industry currently limited to hazardous and intermittent options such as lithium thionyl chloride batteries or mud turbines. Power supply constraints severely limit monitoring of the well and hamper the ability of on-surface operators to respond to problems effectively, with consequences ranging from lost production time to major disasters with incalculable financial and environmental impacts.Nemein, an award-winning SME based in South Wales, are seeking to revolutionise downhole power and data through CHERT (Combined Harsh Environment Renewable Technology), an innovative system that combines energy harvesting, energy storage and an advanced sensing system to provide operators with a consistent uninterruptible power supply and data, purpose-built for the downhole environment to reduce environmental impact and cost whilst improving safety and energy efficiency.