Fraunhofer Research Institution for Energy Infrastructures and Geothermal Systems IEG
Deep geothermal energy can be a crucial lever for CO2-free heat supply within the framework of the energy transition. However, the high exploration risk often deters investors. The GeoHEAT project aims to address this gap. Risks, such as the exploration risk or lack of societal acceptance, discourage investors. GeoHEAT seeks to fill this gap.
GeoHEAT will revolutionize geothermal exploration through two significant strategic changes:
1. Minimizing exploration costs before drilling while simultaneously quantifying and communicating the risks; and
2. Maximizing the information obtained during exploration drilling while reducing the costs of characterization.
Fraunhofer IEG will manage and coordinate the overall project.
Objectives:
Initially, GeoHEAT tackles the high costs of exploration drilling and the limited ability to investigate the underground before drilling using passive surface-based imaging techniques and modeling uncertainties. In addition to reducing measurement errors, GeoHEAT aims to ensure that a larger portion of the population and stakeholders are involved in the exploration. In the next step, GeoHEAT will investigate the underground on an unprecedented scale using a novel georadar probe. We will complement georadar imaging with the monitoring of drilling-induced microseismicity and digital rock physics models to achieve maximum understanding of the reservoir. Our innovative approach, based on various measures, unlocks the potential for informed sidetrack drilling, optimal well placement, and accurate performance and risk analyses.
