| Abstract |
In the search for cleaner energy, local governments are considering the possible utilization of geothermal heat from both deep and shallow zones. The Polish Geothermal Association is engaged in the preparation of special reports for land-use pre-feasibility plans. Two kinds of complex reports are being prepared - regional and local. Both are based on geological, technical and economic data accessible in published and archived materials. Some basic data are available via the Internet from the www pages of the State Main Statistics Office. The original contributions to the reports are various suggestions concerning methods of heat extraction and utilization, considering local climate, population, topography, recreation facilities and industrial conditions. All kinds of data that contribute to a complex analysis of reported geothermal potential, and their importance, are discussed. This paper is based mainly on experiences from two areas in Poland. One is sited in the northwestern part of the Polish Lowlands, the other in the mountainous area of southern Poland. The former extends over 30 000 km2 of mostly arable land with over 150 local governments, while the latter, mountainous area with many tourist attractions is divided between several dozen local governments. The report on the former was originally produced in a complex mode for the whole area, and that for the latter was divided into separate sub-reports having a joint core and individual comments, proposals and data, especially those relating to shallow, low-enthalpy geothermal energy |