Bridging Science to Science Policy - Why it Matters with Geologic Energy
Research
Abstract
Advising policy makers of ongoing geologic energy research is a key
facet of enabling long-term energy security. If policy makers and their
staffs do not hear from practicing scientists, they will likely rely on
public opinion instead of making scientifically-informed choices about
our energy future. As much of what the public hears related to geologic
energy research has negative connotations (e.g., environmental harm,
induced seismicity), this can lead to public pressure on policy makers
to discourage all geologic energy research. Providing information to
stakeholders to make informed decisions will help ground policy
decisions in facts. Traditional geologic energy fuels (e.g., coal, oil,
and natural gas) are still a necessary part of our energy portfolio,
even as other energy sources are being developed. The Energy
Investigations Program (EIP) at the Geological Survey of Alabama
conducts research on all geologic energy resources that would affect the
state and region, including fossil fuel resource assessment. EIP
provides unbiased information about potential development, including
projected costs, environmental impact, and broader economic impact. This
research helps people make informed decisions about how (or even if)
they want to develop these resources. Researchers must be sure that
policy makers are aware of the broader role of geologic energy research
as we move beyond old-school petroleum geology. For example, current
work in EIP focuses on how carbon dioxide produced from burning fossil
fuels might be captured and then either used or stored permanently
(carbon capture, utilization, and storage, CCUS). CCUS includes
permanent geologic sequestration and enhanced hydrocarbon recovery.
Knowledge and support of continued geologic CCUS work is vital to
long-term energy security. To ensure energy security, fossil fuels
cannot be the only geologic energy solution. For example, compressed air
energy storage and low-temperature geothermal energy are vital to
understand as part of the energy revolution beyond fossil fuels. If
decision-makers are unaware of these research efforts, it will be more
difficult to gain support for a more balanced energy portfolio. By
informing the public, legislators, and industry about these varied
geologic energy sources, we enable a stronger energy future and bridge
the interface between geoscience research and public policy.