For harmonious geothermal development with near-by hot springs

Abstract

An integrated geothermal reservoir operation system for adequately controlled utilization was developed to avoid interference to nearby hot springs. The system consists of four parts: geothermal system modeling, monitoring technology, estimation of reservoir change by numerical simulation and integration of a reservoir operation system. Hachijojima and Minami-Izu geothermal areas were selected as model fields to apply this system and various field surveys and monitoring were conducted. The final product is an integrated system that enables to evaluate impacts of geothermal development on surrounding hot springs a priori and to design geothermal exploitation without negative impacts on hot springs. The system may contribute to promote geothermal exploitation.