In the heart of China’s ambitious Xiong’an New Area, a treasure trove of geothermal energy awaits, and a pioneering study led by Ming-xiao Yu of the Institute of Hydrogeology and Environmental Geology, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, is paving the way for its sustainable exploitation. The research, recently published in the Journal of Groundwater Science and Engineering, delves into the intricate details of the region’s Jixianian geothermal reservoirs, offering a roadmap for large-scale geothermal development.
The study, which analyzed data from 21 geothermal wells, reveals that the Rongcheng and Niutuozhen uplifts are particularly promising. These areas boast shallow burial depths, substantial thicknesses, and high productivity, making them ideal for large-scale geothermal exploitation. “The geothermal reservoirs in these uplifts exhibit relatively low temperatures, which is advantageous for direct use applications such as district heating and industrial processes,” Yu explains.
The research employs fuzzy mathematics to create a comprehensive zoning analysis, quantifying evaluation scores and delineating favorable zones for development. This approach not only identifies areas with high resource potential but also highlights zones that require further exploration to mitigate development risks. Areas near the Rongcheng fault or with Jixianian strata buried deeper than 4,000 m are recommended for deferred exploitation, underscoring the need for a strategic and phased approach to geothermal development.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are profound. The study estimates that the Jixianian carbonate geothermal reservoirs in Xiong’an New Area hold geothermal resources of 5,370.31×1016 J, with recoverable geothermal heat amounting to 9.36×1016 J/a. This is equivalent to 319.4×104 t/a of standard coal, a staggering figure that underscores the potential of geothermal energy to meet the region’s energy demands sustainably.
Yu’s work is a significant step forward in the exploration and sustainable exploitation of deep geothermal reservoirs. By providing a detailed zoning analysis and quantifying the region’s geothermal resources, the study offers valuable insights for policymakers, energy companies, and researchers alike. As the world increasingly turns to renewable energy sources, the findings of this research could shape future developments in the geothermal energy sector, not just in Xiong’an New Area but globally.
The study, published in the Journal of Groundwater Science and Engineering, is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary research in addressing complex energy challenges. As Yu and his team continue to explore the depths of Xiong’an New Area’s geothermal resources, the world watches with anticipation, eager to see how this green energy revolution will unfold.