ABSTRACT
Microbial communities play a crucial role in environmental sustainability and the economic viability of energy systems, particularly in geothermal, hydrogen, and carbon sequestration technologies. These microbes enable the bioremediation of contaminants and heavy metals in geothermal liquids, as well as the facilitation of vital biogeochemical cycles that reduce the production of toxic gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S). Additionally, microbial techniques such as bioleaching and biomineralization improve resource extraction, prevent scaling, and prolong the lifespan of infrastructure, thereby reducing maintenance costs. Methanogenic archaea increase the yield of renewable energy by generating methane from CO₂ and hydrogen. Despite these challenges, microbial systems show promising advances in hydrogen storage and carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) and fermentative hydrogen production provide sustainable energy storage solutions, while some microorganisms aid in CO₂ sequestration, lowering greenhouse gas emissions. The future of microbial applications in the energy sector is promising, with continuous research focused on maximizing microbial efficiency, enhancing economic feasibility, and diversifying their role in efficient energy production. By using microbial biotechnology, the energy sector can achieve greater operational effectiveness, environmental resilience, and long-term sustainability, paving the way for cleaner and more reliable energy solutions.
