Utilization of Seismics for Geothermal Prospecting: Case Studies from the Carpathian Mts, Central Europe

Abstract

Geothermal energy in the Central European region is discussed most in scientific, industrial and political agenda, but the use of this resource for the electricity generation is still negligible due to lack of funding. The seismic method is one of the geophysical exploration methods for geothermal resources. In this paper we show the use of a less expensive seismic method and compare it with traditional “commercial“ 2D and 3D seismics used for hydrocarbon prospection. The “light“ seismic performed, for example, by Terraloc instrument provides good results where the depth of geothermal sources is about 1500m – 2000m with better visualization tool as compared to the “normal“ seismic method.