An Update on the 3D Numerical Model of the Bacon-Manito Geothermal Production Field

Abstract

Since the start of the commercial operation of the Bacon-Manito geothermal field, continuous efforts have been exerted to develop a model that will reliably represent the field’s response and evaluate its sustainable production capacity. A lumped parameter model was initially developed and used for resource management purposes. Eventually, a three-dimensional numerical model was developed using iTOUGH2. A recent update in the numerical reservoir model has been carried out to simulate the response of the field since commercial operation and investigate the effects of added extraction from potential expansion areas. A major improvement in the model is the inclusion of non-condensable gases consistent with the high gas content measured in the production wells. The model has been manually calibrated against natural state temperatures and pressures. Further calibration was carried-out through matching of production history trends for enthalpy, pressure drawdown, and CO2. Overall, acceptable matches were obtained for most of the wells.