An Overview on Geothermal Energy Resource in Aq-Bolagh Region (NW-Iran)

Abstract

After conducting of a preliminary geothermal exploration project in west Azarbāijān province in Iran, 12 geothermal prospects were identified in that province. One of the determined prospects is Āq-Bolāgh region which has 165 Km2 area and is located SW of Māku city in the northwest of Iran. The most outstanding geothermal surface manifestations in this region are warm springs, hydrothermally altered areas, quaternary volcanic rocks and travertine deposits. The temperature of warm springs varies from 29 to 39 °C. Based on geochemical studies it is found that warm springs belong to bicarbonate water family and also, they have slightly mixed with underground water. According to Na/K geothermometers, approximate temperature of the geothermal reservoir is 102-150 °C. Due to the presence of quaternary volcanic rocks in the region they can be regarded as proper heat source for the geothermal reservoir. It is believed that Āq-Bolāgh geothermal resource is suitable for power generation using binary cycle power plant.