Advances in Geothermal Resource Exploration Circa 2007

Abstract

At the outset of the 21st century, the geothermal community at-large is essentially attempting to use available exploration tools and techniques to find needles (geothermal occurrences) in very large haystacks (expanses of unexplored territory). Historically the industry has relied on the presence of surface manifestations of subsurface heat, such as hot springs, fumaroles, or geysers as a first-order exploration tool. Regrettably, even when such surface manifestations are investigated more closely, there is no proven technique or techniques that can be used with a high degree of certainty that will indicate the presence of geothermal resources before drilling. Advances in computer technology have propelled geothermal exploration forward, but can only go so far. New exploration concepts are needed, as are new tools, to insure that the industry has a chance of locating and developing the most geothermal resources possible at reasonable costs.