Low Enthalpy Geothermal Resources Application in the Kebili Region, Southern Tunisia

Abstract

In Tunisia, only low enthalpy resources, which are localized mainly in the southern part of the country, are available. Then, the use of geothermal energy is limited to direct application. For thousands of years, geothermal water has been used for bathing, and many of geothermal manifestations in the country have the name of ''Hammam'' or bath, which reflects the main use of geothermal water over the centuries. Now, the resources are utilized mostly for agricultural purposes (irrigation of oases, greenhouses). The government's policy in the beginning of 1980's was oriented towards the development of the oasis sector and the main aim was to supply oases with geothermal water for irrigation. Therefore, in the Kebili area, over 35 boreholes are operating mostly for the irrigation of 16,000 ha of oases after cooling the water in atmospheric cooling towers. Eighteen years ago, the State started using geothermal energy for greenhouse farming, by planting an area of one ha in the region. The results of this experiment were very encouraging, and thus the cultivated areas have today increased to 51 ha (47% of the total cultivated area in the country). Utilization of geothermal resources will without a doubt, increase in the future once we have implemented the last phase of the greenhouse project.