| Title | Geothermal Possibilities in Kazakhstan |
|---|---|
| Authors | Gudni AXELSSON, Thorleikur JÓHANNESSON, Steinunn HAUKSDÓTTIR, Thráinn FRIDRIKSSON, Tobias WEISENBERGER and Mitsunori MOTOHASHI |
| Year | 2020 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | Kazakhstan, sedimentary resources, direct use, WB, ICEIDA |
| Abstract | The key objectives of a study conducted by a team of Icelandic geothermal specialists in 2018/2019 were to review available information on geothermal resources in Kazakhstan, assess technically and economically viable applications, and make recommendations on next steps for possible deployment of geothermal resources in the future. Kazakhstan is believed to hold considerable low-temperature geothermal resources, mainly of the sedimentary type. This information is acquired from deep wells, mostly petroleum and gas wells that have yielded hot water and a few wells drilled specifically for geothermal exploration. Surface manifestations (hot springs) also provide evidence of such resources. Furthermore, there are parallels between the geological conditions (deep sedimentary basins) in parts of Kazakhstan and the geological conditions of sedimentary basins in other parts of the world with extensive low-temperature geothermal utilization, for example in Eastern Europe and in China. Hot water from springs and wells is already being used on a very limited scale in certain areas in Kazakhstan. There is significant need for adequate heating services for the Kazakhstan population and therefore an opportunity to identify whether and how the geothermal resources can be harnessed to meet some of the household energy needs. Based on an initial review of available information, the study focused on two hypothetical case studies of geothermal application: geothermal district heating in the town of Zharkent in southeast Kazakhstan and a 10 MWe binary power plant in the Zharkent sub-basin, to give an indication of the technical and economic viability of such applications. A set of recommendations to the Government of Kazakhstan on the next steps for possible deployment of geothermal utilization in the country was provided as part of the study. It is recommended that Kazakhstan primarily aim for direct use of geothermal resources: house heating, greenhouse heating, fish farming and other direct use applications. Moreover, the development of an efficient and comprehensive regulatory framework for geothermal utilization and district heating in Kazakhstan is among the highest priorities. |