Exploration of Geothermal Resources in the Central Alberta Basin (Canada)

Abstract

The utilization of deep geothermal energy holds the potential to conserve conventional energy resources and decrease the emission of carbon dioxide. The aim of this study is to explore geothermal resources of the central Alberta Basin and to evaluate the feasibility of developing geothermal heat production from deep hydrothermal systems in this region. The study focuses on an area in the central part of the Alberta Basin around the city of Edmonton. In this research area of approx. 150 km * 200 km size the basin is between 1.8 km and 3.5 km deep. Potential reservoir rocks for a geothermal development are found in the deep aquifers of the Basal Cambrian Sandstone and overlying Devonian carbonate layers. A 3D geological model of the research area was developed based on stratigraphic picks from more than 7000 wells that were drilled by the petroleum industry. Consistency of the stratigraphic framework was established through revision of the data by the Alberta Geological Survey (AGS). Through population of the model with poro / perm data from core analyses and well logs it will be possible to delineate areas in the deep aquifers that have a higher porosity and permeability and are favourable for a geothermal utilization.