| Title | ThermoGIS: from a Static to a Dynamic Approach for National Geothermal Resource Information and Development |
|---|---|
| Authors | Mark VRIJLANDT, Maartje STRUIJK, Hans VELDKAMP, Logan BRUNNER, Nora WITMANS, Denise MALJERS, Jan-Diederik VAN WEES |
| Year | 2020 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | ThermoGIS, The Netherlands, resource assessment, direct use, geothermal potential |
| Abstract | Geothermal development in aquifer settings can benefit considerably from a wealth of subsurface data acquired over the past decades by oil and gas exploration and production. In the Netherlands, this data has been gathered by the Geological Survey and has been made publicly available (www.nlog.nl). Almost a decade ago this data was used to create nationwide maps to identify prospective potential of clastic aquifers. It includes key parameters such as: depth, thickness and permeability, as well as aquifer temperature maps from a 3D temperature model of the subsurface. A techno-economic tool complemented these maps to identify prospective areas for geothermal heat extraction, which could be used for feasibility studies and site selection. In the past years, the information system and associated tools (www.thermogis.nl/en) have promoted geothermal development in the Netherlands, marked by a spectacular growth from a few to tens of doublets, mostly used for the heating of green houses. In recent years, a number of shortcomings and potential additions have been identified which would significantly improve the reliability and capabilities of the information and tools provided in ThermoGIS. These have been implemented and released in a completely updated version and web portal, available online since Q4 2018. This allows for continuous and dynamic updates when additional information both from relevant internal and external sources becomes available. The update includes a fully revised workflow for mapping of flow properties and underlying uncertainty, new data from operational geothermal doublets, and a fully revised techno-economic performance tool incorporating the latest insights in cost parameters, innovative development options (e.g. including heat pump and well stimulation scenarios) as well as up-to-date feed-in and taxation schemes. Further additions are foreseen to assist policy makers in developing scenarios to speed up the development of geothermal potential, as well as to unlock areas which are underexplored and in need of further investigation. Furthermore, it is anticipated that ThermoGIS information and tools are of significant value for the foreseen development of district heat networks as part of the large-scale switch from gas-fired to renewable heat and large-scale seasonal heat storage in the subsurface. |