How drilling technologies have shaped the energy landscape

Technological advances in drilling have had a profound impact on our economies and societies, unlocking vast energy resources underground. The first commercial oil well in 1859 paved the way for the modern oil industry, and more recent breakthroughs have repeatedly reshaped global energy dynamics. 

Innovation in drilling technologies continues today. Some of these technologies have helped lay the basis for next-generation geothermal energy projects, which could unlock heat as a reliable and low-emissions energy resource in many parts of the world.

This episode is the second in a three-part miniseries on energy innovation stories that changed the world. It is hosted by Dan Hewitt and produced by Dan Hewitt and Julia Horowitz. Guests include IEA energy analyst Courtney Turich; Sjoerd Brands, technical manager in Europe for well construction at SLB; Iain Hutchison, Chief Executive Officer of Merlin Energy; and Kristie McLin, Principal Investigator of the Utah FORGE project.