Case Study: Development of a Numerical Model by a Multi-Disciplinary Approach, Rotokawa Geothermal Field, New Zealand

Abstract

A comprehensive multi-disciplinary conceptual model was developed for the Rotokawa Geothermal Field by integrating natural state temperatures, geology, geophysics, geochemistry, tracer test results and downhole pressures into a complete geoscientific description of the resource. Through a numerical model construction process, each component of the conceptual model was converted into numerical model simulation code for the reservoir simulator TETRAD. This resulted in a realistic initial version of the numerical model. The numerical model was further developed by implementing a deterministic, forward modelling approach while still maintaining adherence to all aspects of the conceptual model. The result was a numerical model that retained the features of the conceptual model and accurately reproduced measured data. The numerical simulation has both demonstrated the consistency of the conceptual model and provided a quantitative predictive tool.