Investing in Exploration Geoscience and Innovation: a Gis-Based Geothermal Resource Prioritisation Tool for Tohoku Region, Japan

Abstract

We have designed, built and are now utilising a GIS-based geothermal resource prioritisation tool for the Tohoku region, Northern Japan. For the first time, we have a toolbox for automating the integration of large, scientifically diverse, multi-sourced public and institutional geospatial datasets, that support Baseload Power’s geothermal resource prospectivity assessment process. We assign weighted numerical values to resource, infrastructure and development variables aiding identification of geothermal systems, many overlooked for more than onsen bathing, with attributes for scaled, modular plant electric power and community-driven direct use applications.
The Tohoku region of northern Honshu boasts several hundred hot spring areas, but geothermal development has been hindered by community concerns, limited grid availability and uncertainties regarding development potential and resource viability, despite a large volume of historical and recent surface surveys and subsurface geoscience (including well data). Our approach facilitates integration of the various datasets, which can be visually presented in an unbiased assessment or as generated resource favourability scenarios. This provides Baseload Power with a unique advantage to identify geothermal areas of interest, initiate an appropriate exploration strategy, and engage with individuals, communities, industry collaborators and regulators early in the project management process, in order to meld appropriate (ORC, binary or other) technologies, our commercial goals, and the aspirations of local and development partners.