Atlas of Geothermal Resources in Europe: Planning Exploration and Investments

Abstract

Geothermal resources for most European countries are assembled in the recently completed Atlas of Geothermal Resources in Europe. The participating countries are: Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. A volumetric heat content model for porous reservoirs assuming exploitation of geothermal energy by a doublet (production and injection wells) or a singlet (production well only) system is the basis of the resource calculation. Maps of depth, thickness, temperature and resources characterize the geothermal reservoir. The assessment methodology is simple and relies on a small number of parameters. In that way, assessments are also possible in regions of very limited data coverage. An illustrative example in the eastern North German Basin is discussed. This atlas does not replace the need for detailed local studiesof the geothermal reserves, the maps presented permit a first order evaluation in terms of technical and economic viability. This assessment procedure applied uniformly to all countries and regions permits comparisons and serves as a guide to setting priorities and planing geothermal development. This atlas also aids the search for appropriate objects for international cooperation in geothermal exploration.