Abstract: [Objectives] In the context of “dual carbon” goals (carbon peak and carbon neutrality), promoting large-scale application of geothermal energy in zero-carbon regional energy systems represents a critical pathway for energy transition. This study systematically reviews the research progress in development and utilization technologies of geothermal energy, aiming to reveal its critical role in multi-energy complementary systems and to provide theoretical support and technical pathways for building efficient and stable zero-carbon energy systems. [Methods] This study examines the current research status of heat extraction technologies of direct geothermal energy, ground source heat pump systems, and power generation technologies, and analyzes their existing challenges. It summarizes integrated energy systems that couple geothermal energy with carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), solar energy, biomass energy, and hydrogen energy. Additionally, the study evaluates the architecture of zero-carbon industrial parks and compiles case studies of zero-carbon projects. The prospects of integrating geothermal energy with cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) for the development of zero-carbon systems are explored. Future research directions for geothermal energy development and utilization technologies are proposed. [Conclusions] A preliminary framework for geothermal energy technologies has been established, yet technical bottlenecks—such as deep geothermal exploitation and adaptability of enhanced geothermal systems (EGS)—remain to be overcome. Geothermal-based multi-energy coupled systems can significantly improve energy utilization efficiency, but challenges in system integration optimization and dynamic coordination remain unresolved. Digital technologies such as AI offer innovative approaches for precise geothermal resource development and system optimization. Demonstration projects in zero-carbon industrial parks validate the key role of geothermal energy in regional energy systems. Future efforts should prioritize key technologies such reservoir modification, multi-energy complementarity, and intelligent regulation. Furthermore, policy support mechanisms should be strengthened to facilitate large-scale application of geothermal energy in the zero-carbon energy transition.

Key words: geothermal energy, renewable energy, solar energy, biomass energy, hydrogen energy, carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), artificial intelligence (AI), zero-carbon energy