A review on challenges in the assessment of geomechanical rock performance for deep geothermal reservoir development

Abstract This review paper summarizes recent advances and challenges in the assessment of rock behavior and performance in deep low-permeability and high-temperature geothermal reservoirs. Geothermal energy systems for electricity production target deep rock between ca. 2 km and 5 km depth to obtain sufficiently elevated temperatures. Rock permeability enhancement faces many challenges, and therefore the development of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) still represents a pioneering effort. The potential and advantage of EGS above conventional geothermal reservoirs is its independence of the location that supplies sufficient heat and fluid. Several issues prevent the successful application of EGS technology. First, the effects of non-uniform in-situ stresses and loading history on rock fracturing are not well understood. Second, the role of rock anisotropy, heterogeneity and thermal effects on rock properties in the design of hydraulic fracturing operations is not clear. Third, the reduction of induced seismicity effects raises safety and public acceptance issues. This manuscript formulates outlines for future research directions. Specifically, the recommendations focus on the development of tools for better understanding and mitigating problems, which occur during stimulation of deep geothermal reservoirs.

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