Enhanced Geothermal System Performance-Monitoring using Advanced Distributed Temperature-Sensing Technology

Abstract

Geothermal power generation represents a large resource that promises minimal environmental impact and continuous base-load power. While hydrothermal operations remain an important focus in the geothermal industry, a great deal of attention is being paid to developing enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) activity. Improvements in well construction, power conversion technologies, and a better understanding of subsurface formation structures and flow properties benefit the development of EGS. In EGS development, the operator can stimulate large volumes of rock, generate connectivity, circulate fluid, and generate power using the thermal energy produced from the created system. Initial concerns regarding flow, short circuiting, injection pressures, and water losses are manageable with advanced distributed temperature-sensing (DTS) monitoring technology and operational changes, helping ensure long reservoir life. Improved downhole visualization is critical to successful and reliable EGS operations. Advanced DTS technology enables visualization and interpretation of fracture distribution during both stimulation and production phases. DTS technology can be used for reservoir characterization, production optimization, surface and subsurface monitoring, fluid injection, and short-circuit monitoring. This paper provides a review of the fundamentals of EGS performance monitoring and the implementation of DTS technology.