| Title | Pioneering geothermal energy potential study in Sudr oil field, Sinai, Egypt |
|---|---|
| Authors | A. Shawky, C.R. Chamorro, F.J. Rey-Martinez, M. Darwish, M.A. Zaher, M.A. Deep, T. Nassar |
| Year | 2025 |
| Conference | New Zealand Geothermal Workshop |
| Keywords | Gulf of Suez Rift, Sinai, Sudr Oil Field, 3D Structural Model, Geothermal Gradient, Resistivity Logs, Abandoned Oil Wells, Geothermal Power Potential |
| Abstract | Sudr oil field hosts one of Egypt’s most significant geothermal features: Sudr-22 well (Ras Sudr sulfur water), originally drilled for oil and now producing 86°C hot water. Located along the Gulf of Suez Rift, the area benefits from a high geothermal gradient due to its position on a structural high at the footwall of a major rift-related fault (AMSF) and its proximity to a significant hotspot just west of the field. This study presents a comprehensive 3D geological model of the field, developed through seismic interpretation and well log data analysis. The model delineates the structural architecture, elaborating three northwest-trending rift-parallel faults that encompass a significant horst and secondary intra-horst structures. These structures facilitated the formation of localized geothermal compartments, where thermal water rises from wells accessing different geothermal reservoirs. Temperature data and gradient analysis reveal a geothermal gradient of 50 °C/km, indicating the potential to access a 70-80 °C reservoir within the Eocene reservoir at a depth of approximately 1 km. Higher temperatures of more than 120 °C may be reached by penetrating the deeper Nubian reservoir, located at a depth of approximately 2 km. Additionally, resistivity analysis using well logs reveals distinct trends in the studied wells related to the geothermal environment. Notably, resistivity increases in front of the Eocene geothermal reservoir and evaporite zones in the Miocene strata, while cap rocks primarily composed of shaly and marly materials exhibit lower resistivities. This information was crucial for predicting additional geothermal reservoirs within the field. The geothermal potential assessment estimates a recoverable thermal energy of approximately 6.3 PJ (6.7 MW) for the P50 scenario, with P10 and P90 estimates of 2.9 PJ (3 MW) and 12.1 PJ (12.8 MW), respectively, over a 30-year project lifespan. This power plant would be very beneficial to supply clean power to nearby households and touristic resorts. Sudr field thus emerges as one of Egypt’s most promising sites for geothermal development. The opportunity to repurpose abandoned oil wells -especially those already producing thermal water- could significantly lower development costs. Additionally, the site offers a unique case study for geothermal–oil co-production, emphasizing the potential of oil fields to support sustainable energy initiatives. |