In the quest to expand and optimize geothermal energy usage, a team of researchers from the Swiss Seismological Service at ETH Zurich, the University of Geneva, and the University of Lausanne has introduced a novel approach called GeoHEAT. This method integrates innovations across three spatial scales to enhance geothermal exploration.
The GeoHEAT approach begins at the regional scale, covering areas of approximately 100 kilometers. Researchers create Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) heat maps using techno-economic and metamodel analyses. These maps help identify several potential sites for further investigation. The next step involves a reservoir-scale assessment, focusing on areas of about 10 kilometers. Here, passive seismics and gravity measurements are combined with probabilistic geological and geomechanical modeling to pinpoint locations for drilling exploration boreholes. The final phase involves high-resolution borehole characterization, incorporating various analyses, with a central focus on a georadar probe. This probe illuminates permeable structures, providing detailed insights into the geothermal potential of the site.
The researchers have applied this methodology to the Swiss canton of Thurgau, demonstrating its effectiveness in large-scale geothermal exploration. One of the key innovations within this project is the design and construction of a geothermal-grade georadar, specifically tailored for this type of exploration. This research was published in the journal “Geothermal Energy,” offering a promising new tool for the energy sector to tap into geothermal resources more efficiently and cost-effectively.
For the energy industry, the GeoHEAT approach presents a practical application in identifying and assessing geothermal resources with greater precision. By integrating multiple data sources and advanced modeling techniques, this method can help reduce the risks and costs associated with geothermal exploration. This, in turn, can facilitate the broader adoption of geothermal energy, contributing to a more diverse and sustainable energy mix.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.