Feasibility of low-temperature geothermal systems: Considerations of thermal anomalies, geochemistry, and local assets

Abstract

Low-temperature geothermal power plants have great potential to provide baseload electricity worldwide. However, the technology is new and untested, and the systems require a significant financial investment. Site-specific feasibility studies are required to draw together available data and inform developers of production potential and challenges. This study applies coupled thermal, hydraulic, and geochemical modeling to characterize a horizontal geothermal well system in the Williston Basin. This study targeted thermal anomalies overlying 370 m thick halite and dolomite formations from the Devonian period. The halite and dolomite produced a 6°C thermal anomaly, or 16°C km−1 increase in the thermal gradient. A >5.0 MW power plant was achieved when targeting the Dawson Bay formation. A fractured, horizontal well in the Bakken formation was re-entered for injection, providing a savings of up to 40% of drilling costs. The geochemical analysis allowed for the calculation of potential precipitates in the production casing, and consideration of mitigation methods. In addition, the co-production of lithium was identified as potentially profitable in the Dawson Bay Formation. Considering the available resources and assets provided unique data to inform the development of a geothermal system in the Williston Basin.