| Title | Feasibility for the Application of Geothermal Energy for Greenhouses in South-East Drenthe, the Netherlands, Results of a Multi-Disciplinary Study |
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| Authors | Leonora J. Heijnen, Gerhard Diephuis, Peter Betts, Arnaud Huck, August Willemsen, Nick A. Buik |
| Year | 2010 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | multi-disciplinary, 3D-seismic, acoustic impedance, geothermal, greenhouses, the Netherlands |
| Abstract | The sub-surface potential has been evaluated in a multidisciplinary manner for application of geothermal energy for heating of greenhouses near Emmen in the northeastern part of the Netherlands. The zone of interest comprises two designated areas of greenhouse development sized 100 and 180 ha respectively. In this study 3D seismic data have been interpreted in conjunction with borehole data in order to obtain a detailed subsurface model in acoustic impedance. The results show that Triassic Volpriehausen and Detfurth sandstones of the Main-Buntsandstein constitute potential reservoirs for extraction of hot water. These reservoirs are present between depths of ca 2,000 – 4,000 m. Based on the local geothermal gradient the temperature at the top is estimated to be at least around 100 ºC. From interpreted 3D seismic data it could be inferred that the Volpriehausen and Detfurth sandstones have a combined thickness of ~ 45 m at the proposed locations. In the southern part of the area a fault zone is present where these sandstones most likely are grounded on underlying Zechstein salt deposits. This may complicate selection of the surface location and well-trajectories of the doublet-wells. Towards the north the target-reservoir appears to be less fractured as shown by extensive fault imaging on the 3D seismic. Optimal locations have been chosen on the basis of acoustic impedance data, allowing an estimation of porosity and thickness of the main target reservoir in the area – the Lower Volpriehausen Sandstone. The uncertainty in productivity should be less than 10% in order to qualify for the Dutch guarantee fund (in founding). Flow rates have been calculated assuming a certainty of 90%. A potential flow rate of 100 m³/h is inferred, leading to an expected thermal power of 6 MWt to be delivered by one doublet-well. The application of a horizontal section in the well leads to an increased flow rate of 270 m³/h resulting in an expected thermal power of 16 MWt. These results show that this project qualifies for the Dutch guarantee fund. |