Bridging Science to Science Policy - Why it Matters with Geologic Energy Research

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.