Geothermal Energy in Romania: Country Update 2000-2004

Abstract

Exploration for geothermal resources began in Romania in the early 1960's, arising from a hydrocarbon research program, which, as an unexpected benefit, also identified eight promising geothermal areas. Within these areas, over 200 wells, drilled to depths between 800 and 3,500 m, showed the presence of low enthalpy geothermal resources (40-120?C). Completion and experimental exploitation of over 100 wells during the past 25 years has enabled evaluation of the exploitable heat available from these geothermal resources. Proven geothermal reserves in Romania are currently about 200,000 TJ for 20 years.
The main Romanian geothermal resources are found in porous and permeable sandstones and siltstones (for example, in the Western Plain and the Olt Valley), or in fractured carbonate formations (Oradea, Bors, North Bucharest).
The total thermal capacity of the existing wells is about 480 MWt (for a reference temperature of 25?C). Of this total, only 145 MWt are currently used, from 96 wells (of which 35 wells are used for balneology and bathing) that are producing hot water in the temperature range of 45-115?C. For 1999, the annual energy utilisation from these wells was about 2,900 TJ, with a capacity factor of 0.62. More than 80% of the wells are artesian producers, 18 wells require anti-scaling chemical treatment, and six are reinjection wells. The main direct uses of the geothermal energy are: space and district heating 39.7%; bathing 32.2%; greenhouse heating 17.1%; industrial process heat 8.7%; fish farming and animal husbandry 2.3%.
During 2000-2004, four geothermal wells have been drilled in Romania with National financing, and one additional well is in progress at this writing. All the four wells, drilled to depths ranging from 2,000 m to 3,000 m, have been successful, producing geothermal water with 37-84?C wellhead temperatures.