Shallow and deep geothermal
Geothermal energy is permanent because it does not rely on sources that wax and wane over the course of a day (e.g., wind or solar). Nowadays, the installed capacity of geothermal energy in Europe is about 60 Gigawatt only. Yet, the EU estimates an increase of up to 2570 Terawatt-hours in 2050.
Geothermal energy is extracted from shallow or deep reservoirs. In either case, an accurate knowledge of the reservoir is required to evaluate its potential and optimize its management. In addition, the environmental impact of the geothermal use must also be forecasted. Numerical models are a necessary tool to that end.
HydroGeoModels Inc. has participated in numerous projects involving shallow geothermal energy for heat production in Switzerland and Austria, and cooperates in the design of the deep geothermal project of Geo-Energie Suisse AG for power production. This experience is reflected in top quality conceptual and numerical models, well suited to project specifics and client needs. HydroGeoModels Inc. offers services including, but not limited to:
Shallow geothermal
- Real time interpretation of hydrothermal tests
- 2D/3D density driven heterogeneous finite element models, calibrated to available measurements
- Evaluation of geothermal potential
- Optimum design of groundwater heat pumps and heat probes
- Analysis of environmental impacts caused by the installation of new heat pumps
Deep geothermal
- Real time interpretation of hydraulic and hydrothermal tests, including evaluation of induced seismicity
- 1D/2D/3D density driven heterogeneous finite element models, calibrated to available measurements, including fractures
- Analysis of in-situ stress state
- Optimum design of deep wells
- Analysis of induced seismicity caused by fracking/hydraulic stimulation
- Optimum design of geothermal powerplants
- Economic evaluation of deep geothermal projects