Automatic History Matching of Geothermal Field Performance

Abstract

We have developed inverse modeling capabilities for the multiphase multicomponent numerical simulator TOUGH2 to facilitate automatic history matching and parameter estimation based on data obtained during exploitation of geothermal fields. The code allows one to estimateTOUGH2 input parameters based on any type of observation for which a corresponding output can be calculated. Furthermore, a residual and error is performed, and the uncertainty of model predictions can be evaluated. This paper focuses on the solution of the inverse problem, the determination of model-related parameters by automatically calibrating a conceptual model of the geothermal system against data obtained during field operation. We first describe the modeling approach used to simulatefluid and heat flow in fracturedporous media. The inverse problem is then formulated, followed by a brief discussion of the optimization algorithm. A sample problem is given to demonstrate the application of the method to geothermal reservoir data.