Geochemical Prospecting Investigation in Non-Volcanic Geothermal Area: A Case Study of Sajau, East Tanjung Palas, Bulungan, North Kalimantan

Abstract

Indonesia has at least 324 prospects of geothermal which ensuring the great potential of sustainable and low-emission energy. About 96% (26.5 GWe) of the total Indonesian geothermal prospects are located in volcanic environment, while the 4% (1.2 GWe) come from the non-volcanic environment. Thus, the geochemical analysis is aimed to investigate the prospect of geothermal energy in the non-volcanic environment. The methods are geological mapping and geochemical analysis by manifestation geochemistry and soil geochemistry. Geological mapping is conducted to provide data about lithologies, structures, and manifestations of geothermal. Geochemical exploration relies on the analysis of water samples from manifestations to characterize the fluid and its origin, understand the fluid equilibrium, and interpret reservoir temperature. Soil geochemistry is aimed to identify permeability zone and structures in purpose to identify the prospect area. This paper will briefly illustrate the fundamental concept of non-volcanic geothermal, conceptual model, and potential of the research area. We anticipate this paper to become a turning point for further research in geothermal as promising alternative energy and specifically to broaden the view of non-volcanic geothermal system in Indonesia.