Is there way more conventional geothermal than we thought?

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.volts.wtf/subscribeZanskar argues that the US is badly underestimating its conventional geothermal resources — that there are far more undiscovered hydrothermal systems, and that each one can produce far more power, than people think. They think AI can help find those resources, and they have drilled three sites to back it up, including a “blind” discovery in Nevada with no surface signs and no prior exploratory wells. If they're right, terawatts of firm, carbon-free power are reachable with off-the-shelf drilling technology. Co-founders Carl Hoiland and Joel Edwards make the case.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction03:29 – Heat, permeability, and how resources have been found04:49 – Why conventional geothermal stalled, and why the estimate is stale09:22 – Applying AI to old exploration data11:10 – The data Zanskar works with13:09 – Models, field testing, and the feedback loop15:02 – How much more resource is really out there20:22 – Lightning Dock: reviving a written-off field22:14 – What has changed in drilling technology28:37 – Pumpernickel and the permeability question31:08 – Natural permeability vs. enhanced geothermal34:21 – Big Blind, the first blind discovery in 30 years37:09 – Improving the models to keep getting better40:51 – Financing exploration: the development capital facility44:38 – The NV Energy PPA and data center demand47:42 – The skeptical case and geographic limits54:20 – Policy dependence and public lands58:11 – What's next for Zanskar