Geothermal energy potential of sedimentary formations in the Athabasca region, northeast Alberta, Canada

2016 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. SR19-SR33 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elahe P. Ardakani ◽  
Douglas R. Schmitt
Keyword(s):  
Thermal Energy ◽  
Geothermal Energy ◽  
Oil Sands ◽  
Fossil Fuels ◽  
Greenhouse Gas Emission ◽  
Energy Content ◽  
Regional Scale ◽  
Heat Extraction ◽  
Sequential Gaussian Simulation ◽  
Energy Potential

The Athabasca region, located in the northeast of Alberta, Canada, hosts many ongoing projects of bitumen extraction from oil sands and Devonian carbonate and siliciclastic reservoirs, which require a vast amount of thermal energy. Geothermal energy as a green renewable source of heat can help to reduce the amount of fossil fuels used to provide the required thermal energy for these projects and consequently decrease the greenhouse gas emission. To assess the geothermal development potential in this region, an integrated regional-scale 3D model was constructed with geologic and geophysical data (approximately 7000 formation tops and approximately 800 km seismic 2D profiles). Incorporation of 2D seismic profiles that filled in the gaps between sparse geologic tops particularly for deeper formations adds to structural details of the modeled formations. The temperature and porosity fields were simulated using the sequential Gaussian simulation approach within the modeled sedimentary formations. Based on spatial distribution, thickness, formation porosity and permeability analysis, five Paleozoic formations of Keg River, Waterways, Cooking Lake, Leduc, and Grosmont were identified as potential aquifers for geothermal development. These aquifers have enough coverage and thickness in the area and possess a high amount of thermal energy content. Because the sedimentary basin in the Athabasca region is quite shallow (less than 1400 m), these aquifers are all recognized as low enthalpy geothermal reservoirs with maximum of 40°C temperature and hence direct heating applications are not feasible. Use of industrial-scale heat-pump technologies that have long been used in northern Europe with high coefficients of performance would be recommended for heat extraction from these reservoirs.

scholarly journals Study of geothermal energy potential as a green source of energy with a look at energy consumption in Iran

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ali Dashti ◽  
Maziar Gholami Korzani
Keyword(s):  
Energy Consumption ◽  
Geothermal Energy ◽  
Fossil Fuels ◽  
Average Energy ◽  
High Energy ◽  
Energy Potential ◽  
Sustainable Resources ◽  
Geological Characteristics ◽  
Geothermal Potential ◽  
High Energy Consumption

AbstractRegarding disadvantages of fossil fuels, renewables like geothermals can be an eco-friendly source of energy. In Iran, the availability of fossil fuels and poor policies surrounding subsidies (ranked as the first in giving subsidies) caused high energy consumption (1.75 times higher than the global average). Energy is mainly provided by fossil fuels that leads to high CO2 emission. This study evaluates the energy consumption trend and potentials of more sustainable resources like geothermals in Iran. The formation of geothermals is tightly linked with geological prerequisites that are partly present within Iran. Adjacency of the metamorphic with volcanic zones, existence of numerous faults and seismic activity of Iran are notable geological characteristics confirming the geothermal potential. In Iran, 18 regions are being explored as the most promising geothermal prospects. To test the potentials of one of these regions, a geothermal power plant with a capacity of 5 MWe is installed in the Sabalan Field. Northwest (where Sabalan Field is located), central (like Mahalat Region) and southeast of Iran (Makran Zone) can be regarded as promising zones for hosting geothermal prospects.

Thermohydraulic Analysis of Ground as a Heat Source for Heat Pumps Using Vertical Pipes

1996 ◽  
Vol 118 (4) ◽  
pp. 300-305 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. T. Kangas
Keyword(s):  
Computer Simulation ◽  
Heat Source ◽  
Heat Pump ◽  
Thermal Energy ◽  
System Performance ◽  
Thermal Effects ◽  
Heat Pumps ◽  
The Other ◽  
Heat Extraction ◽  
Energy Potential

In this study, the use of the ground as the heat source for a heat pump was studied by computer simulation. The heat extraction system consisted of vertical pipes drilled into the ground where groundwater was present. Along with available thermal energy, potential environmental effects, such as freezing and thermal pollution, were examined. It was found that the presence of groundwater enhances system performance by decreasing the possibility of freezing but, on the other hand, increases the range of thermal effects in the ground. The temperature of the ground as well as extraction arrangements also have a significant effect on system performance.

scholarly journals Potencjał energetyczny biomasy roślinnej i możliwości wykorzystania do celów energetycznych

2017 ◽  
Vol 17(32) (2) ◽  
pp. 81-92
Author(s):  
Zuzanna Jarosz
Keyword(s):  
Agricultural Production ◽  
Food Production ◽  
Energy Production ◽  
Fossil Fuels ◽  
Greenhouse Gas Emission ◽  
Renewable Energy Sources ◽  
Gas Emission ◽  
Energy Potential ◽  
Agricultural Census ◽  
Perennial Energy Crops

The need to ensure energy security, decouple energy production from fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emission are driving the use of renewable energy sources. The purpose of the study is to assess the energy potential of agricultural crops biomass and to indicate its potential for electricity and heat production. The data from the Agricultural Census 2010 were used for analyses. On the basis of the detailed analysis of the changes in agricultural production in the years 2010-2015 the data has been updated. Is was assumed that the changes in communes were similar to those in voivodships. The energy potential of the crop biomass was estimated taking into account surpluses of straw, hay and perennial energy crops biomass. The study shows that energy potential of the biomass without jeopardizing food production amounts at 305,8 thousand TJ per year.

scholarly journals Renewable Energy Resources Hybridization as an Efficient and Cost-Effective Alternative for Electrification

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (3) ◽  
pp. 174-183
Author(s):  
K.R. Kamil ◽  
A.O. Yusuf ◽  
S.A. Yakubu ◽  
S.B. Seriki
Keyword(s):  
Renewable Energy ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Fossil Fuels ◽  
Greenhouse Gas Emission ◽  
Global Climate ◽  
Thermal Power ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Simulation Software ◽  
Renewable Energy Resources ◽  
Energy Potential

Majority of electricity generation in Nigeria comes from fossil fuels, with about two-thirds of thermal power derived from natural gas and the rest from oil, resulting in the emission of carbon dioxide (𝐶𝑂2). With the prevailing global climate change, shifting to renewable energy would reduce the greenhouse gas emission which would be the salvaging option to help our degrading environment. The aim of the resource’s hybridization process is to generate enough electricity that would help the supplementing for the inadequate electricity supply in the local province at the least detrimental effect on the environment. This work discusses the renewable energy potential of Nigeria and raises the possibility of having Nigeria electricity grid powered by small, medium and large-scale renewable energy systems. The hybridised power generation system simulations were done using HOMER simulation software. The hybridisation of the resources was able to generate 149,313 kWh/yr to adequately sustain the estimated electrical load of 126,027kWh/yr. Conclusively, cost effectiveness of the individual and hybridised systems was also considered.

scholarly journals Evaluation of the Shallow Geothermal Potential for Heating and Cooling and Its Integration in the Socioeconomic Environment: A Case Study in the Region of Murcia, Spain

Energies ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (18) ◽  
pp. 5740
Author(s):  
Adela Ramos-Escudero ◽  
M. Socorro García-Cascales ◽  
Javier F. Urchueguía
Keyword(s):  
Specific Heat ◽  
Geothermal Energy ◽  
Water Saturation ◽  
Regional Scale ◽  
Ghg Emissions ◽  
Heat Extraction ◽  
Heating And Cooling ◽  
Ground Source ◽  
Shallow Geothermal Energy ◽  
The Cost

In order to boost the use of shallow geothermal energy, reliable and sound information concerning its potential must be provided to the public and energy decision-makers, among others. To this end, we developed a GIS-based methodology that allowed us to estimate the resource, energy, economic and environmental potential of shallow geothermal energy at a regional scale. Our method focuses on closed-loop borehole heat exchanger systems, which are by far the systems that are most utilized for heating and cooling purposes, and whose energy demands are similar throughout the year in the study area applied. The resource was assessed based on the thermal properties from the surface to a depth of 100 m, considering the water saturation grade of the materials. Additionally, climate and building characteristics data were also used as the main input. The G.POT method was used for assessing the annual shallow geothermal resource and for the specific heat extraction (sHe) rate estimation for both heating and, for the first time, for cooling. The method was applied to the Region of Murcia (Spain) and thematic maps were created with the outputting results. They offer insight toward the thermal energy that can be extracted for both heating and cooling in (MWh/year) and (W/m); the technical potential, making a distinction over the climate zones in the region; the cost of the possible ground source heat pump (GSHP) installation, associated payback period and the cost of producing the shallow geothermal energy; and, finally, the GHG emissions savings derived from its usage. The model also output the specific heat extraction rates, which are compared to those from the VDI 4640, which prove to be slightly higher than the previous one.

scholarly journals Heat pumps in the future

2021 ◽  
Vol 345 ◽  
pp. 00004
Author(s):  
Tímea Gresz ◽  
Dávid Faragó ◽  
Péter Bencs
Keyword(s):  
Renewable Energy ◽  
Thermal Energy ◽  
Geothermal Energy ◽  
Fossil Fuels ◽  
Renewable Energy Sources ◽  
Heat Pumps ◽  
Current Situation ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Power Demand ◽  
The Everyday

It has been discovered long ago that geothermal energy can be used to substitute various types of fossil fuels. Heat pumps are devices that can transfer the earth’s thermal energy from a cooler to a warmer space. Their deployment would not only benefit large companies but could even reduce the everyday costs of individuals. Among their many advantages, possibly the most important one is that it is environmentally friendly. Their power demand can ideally be satisfied using other renewable energy sources. In this article, the current situation of heat pumps and geothermal energy in Hungary, Sweden and Germany are examined including incentives and grants. Afterwards, the current situation and operation of hybrid systems in Sweden and Egypt are studied.

scholarly journals Possibilities of Energy Generation from Olive Tree Residues, by-products and Waste in Crete, Greece

2017 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 110
Author(s):  
John Vourdoubas
Keyword(s):  
Power Generation ◽  
Fossil Fuels ◽  
Energy Use ◽  
Energy Content ◽  
Biogas Production ◽  
Energy Generation ◽  
Olive Tree ◽  
Tree Biomass ◽  
Energy Potential ◽  
By Products

The objective of the current work is the investigation of the current utilization of olive tree residues, by-products and waste for energy generation in Crete and their future prospects. The quantity of olive tree biomass in Crete has been estimated and its potential for energy generation has been calculated. Possibilities for using it for heat production, power generation, biogas production, pellet manufacturing and fermentable sugar production have been investigated. Experiences in other olive oil producing countries have been recorded together with the technologies used or experimented with so far. The energy potential of olive tree biomass in Crete has been estimated at 24.05 % of the TPES supply in the island. The only highly utilized olive tree by-product for heat generation by combustion in Crete is the olive kernel wood. Olive tree pruning have the highest energy content but they are underutilized in Crete. Their successful utilization in other countries for pellet manufacturing and power generation indicates that their exploitation should be promoted in Crete. The results of this study indicate that olive tree cultivation in Crete, apart from producing a high nutritional edible product, generates residues, by-products and waste which if properly utilized could contribute in the reduction of fossil fuels used and the carbon footprint due to energy use in the island.

scholarly journals Low-enthalpy Geothermal Energy Potential of Mine Water from Closured Underground Coal Mines in Northern Spain

2019 ◽  
Vol 103 ◽  
pp. 02007
Author(s):  
Javier Menéndez ◽  
Jorge Loredo
Keyword(s):  
Geothermal Energy ◽  
Energy Demand ◽  
Fossil Fuels ◽  
Coal Mines ◽  
Heat Pumps ◽  
Coefficient Of Performance ◽  
Northern Spain ◽  
Energy Potential ◽  
Heating And Cooling ◽  
Underground Coal Mines

The contribution of renewable energies to the world's total energy demand has increased particularly during the last decades, and they will continue gaining market share. The European energy and climate policies have as one of their targets 20% of final energy from renewable origin by 2020. Underground coal mines closured and flooded constitute large underground reservoirs that can be economically managed to supply geothermal energy (heating and cooling) by means of heat pumps. This paper analyzes the geothermal potential of the water stored inside the coal mines of the Asturian Central Coal Basin (ACCB) and the reduction of CO2 emissions compared to the use of fossil fuels. The results of the study that has been carried out show a capacity of 50 MWt. The potential for generation thermal energy is 112,000 MWh/year with an electric consumption of 14,000 MWh/year. The Coefficient Of Performance (COP) medium is 8 kWht/kWhe. The reduction of CO2 emissions compared to other fuel sources can reach 80%.

scholarly journals Sustainable Modularity Approach to Facilities Development Based on Geothermal Energy Potential

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (6) ◽  
pp. 2691
Author(s):  
Nataša Ćuković Ignjatović ◽  
Ana Vranješ ◽  
Dušan Ignjatović ◽  
Dejan Milenić ◽  
Olivera Krunić
Keyword(s):  
Geothermal Energy ◽  
Architectural Design ◽  
Pannonian Basin ◽  
Thermal Power ◽  
Chemical Compositions ◽  
Energy Potential ◽  
Southeastern Part ◽  
Geothermal Resources ◽  
Heating And Cooling ◽  
Different Temperatures

The study presented in this paper assessed the multidisciplinary approach of geothermal potential in the area of the most southeastern part of the Pannonian basin, focused on resources utilization. This study aims to present a method for the cascade use of geothermal energy as a source of thermal energy for space heating and cooling and as a resource for balneological purposes. Two particular sites were selected—one in a natural environment; the other within a small settlement. Geothermal resources come from different types of reservoirs having different temperatures and chemical compositions. At the first site, a geothermal spring with a temperature of 20.5 °C is considered for heat pump utilization, while at the second site, a geothermal well with a temperature of 54 °C is suitable for direct use. The calculated thermal power, which can be obtained from geothermal energy is in the range of 300 to 950 kW. The development concept was proposed with an architectural design to enable sustainable energy efficient development of wellness and spa/medical facilities that can be supported by local authorities. The resulting energy heating needs for different scenarios were 16–105 kW, which can be met in full by the use of geothermal energy.

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