| Title | GEMex – Cooperation in Geothermal Energy Research Europe-Mexico for Development of Enhanced Geothermal Systems and Superhot Geothermal Systems |
|---|---|
| Authors | David BRUHN, AÃda LÓPEZ HERNÃNDEZ, and The GEMex Consortia |
| Year | 2020 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | Research, exploration, resource assessment, EGS, superhot |
| Abstract | The GEMex project is a complementary effort of a European consortium with a corresponding consortium from Mexico, who submitted an equivalent proposal for cooperation. The joint effort is based on three pillars: 1. Resource assessment at two unconventional geothermal sites, for EGS development at Acoculco and for a superhot resource near Los Humeros. This part is focused on understanding the tectonic evolution, the fracture distribution and hydrogeology of the respective region, and on predicting in-situ stresses and temperatures at depth. 2. Reservoir characterization using techniques and approaches developed at conventional geothermal sites, including novel geophysical and geological methods tested and refined for their application at the two project sites: passive seismic data were used to apply ambient noise correlation methods, and to study anisotropy by coupling surface and volume waves; electromagnetic data were collected in combination with gravity measurements. For the interpretation of these data, high-pressure/ high-temperature laboratory experiments will be performed to derive the parameters determined on rock samples from Mexico or equivalent materials. All these data will be integrated with the help of structural geological mapping, including analogue outcrop studies representing the deep subsurface targets. 3. Concepts for Site Development: all existing and newly collected information is applied to define drill paths, to recommend a design for well completion including suitable material selection for the superhot resource, and to investigate optimum stimulation and operation procedures for safe and economic exploitation with control of undesired side effects. These steps included appropriate measures and recommendations for public acceptance and outreach as well as for the monitoring and control of environmental impact. The projects end in May 2020, such that results will be presented in various individual contributions. This poster will provide the overview and link the different contributions on the specific research topics addressed. |