Review of the Geothermal Resources of Egypt: 2015-2020

Abstract

According to the announced Egyptian renewable energy plan for 2035, a sort of 67 GW representing about 45% of total generated electricity, will be added to the grid from PV, wind and other renewable resources. In the near future (end of the year 2022), Egypt intends to supply 20% of generated electricity from renewable sources (wind, solar and Hydro power). Till now the geothermal resources of Egypt are not scheduled, in the future plans of renewable energy, as a potential energy source. The promised geothermal resources of Egypt are mainly located along the Gulf of Suez and the Red Sea and in some locations at the Western Desert of Egypt. The tectonic activity of the Gulf of Suez and the whole province of the Red Sea play an important role in controlling the thermal water. Other low enthalpy thermal springs, enriched with sulphur, are recognized away from the Gulf region, near Helwan city. In general the identified geothermal resources of Egypt can be categorized as low to medium enthalpy, however some high enthalpy spots are located in deep water associated with the rift of the Red Sea forming what called ‘Red Sea Hot brines’. Although this is the status of the geothermal resources of Egypt, these resources could be utilized for many direct purposes as well as some low scales of power generation. This paper represents a review and update of the geothermal activities of Egypt within the last five years.