Comment on essd-2022-378

Abstract

Passive seismic datasets are a key technology for exploration and monitoring of subsurface reservoirs. Searching for alternative resources in the framework of the energy transition creates a surge for identifying as many potential sites as possible suitable for geothermal exploitation. The Lower Rhine Embayment, at the western border of North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany, is an extensional system with a very high potential for geothermal exploitation. The area experiences moderate but continuous natural seismicity. Here, we report on a passive seismic dataset recorded with 48 seismic stations centred at and around Eschweiler-Weisweiler. Background seismic noise levels are high at this site due to high levels of anthropogenic noise and thick unconsolidated sedimentary layers. The final station layout is a compromise between targeted network design and suitably quiet locations. We show that the network design allows the application of state-of-the-art methods including waveform-based source location methods and ambient noise velocity imaging methods.