| Abstract |
Complex kinematic and mechanical interactions throughout the upper crust are the result of the gradual deformation of the surrounding triple junction in Eastern Anatolia. Tectonic inversions, uplifts, widespread seismicity, and volcanism are the result of these interactions. Some of the local stresses created by regional tectonics are beneficial for the movement of magma and the circulation of thermal water in the lithosphere. The main cause of the tectonic development of the region is the ongoing convergence between the Anatolian Plate and the Arabian Plate. This interaction has resulted in significant geological features, including the North Anatolian and East Anatolian fault zones, which are the primary structural controllers of the strike-slip tectonism in the region. The boundaries of these fault zones form active seismic zones characterized by young volcanic associations and fault segments, the latter circulating both water and heat. For this reason, there are various geothermal systems with several hot water sources in the region. The distribution of hot water sources in this region roughly corresponds to the distribution of fault systems and young volcanism. Extensive exploration programs have been conducted in this region over the past two years, including drone surveys, geological mapping, magnetotelluric (MT) and gravity surveys, and water and rock sampling and analysis. These efforts culminated in the development of a conceptual geothermal system model. Excitingly, resistivity data from the exploration licenses have yielded results comparable to high-enthalpy geothermal fields in Türkiye, signaling the potential for a major discovery. |