Geothermal energy potential of the Mangyshlak Basin, western Kazakhstan: A preliminary assessment based on stratigraphy and temperature data

Abstract

Kazakhstan is an important petroleum producer, however, similarly to the rest of the world, the sustainable energy transition has gained attention very recently. Apart from solar and wind power, geothermal energy can be incorporated into Kazakhstan's decarbonization strategy due to elevated temperatures in several sedimentary basins. This study provides a preliminary assessment of the Mangyshlak Basin's geothermal energy potential. Data from the oil and gas industry were utilized to construct depth-temperature profiles, which helped generate the first regional temperature distribution maps. Results show elevated temperatures exist in the Peschanomys-Rakushechny, Tuarkyr-Karabogaz, Zhetybay-Uzen, and Tenge-Tasbulat regions. Depth-temperature profiles, regional stratigraphy, and reservoir characteristics revealed the best areas and horizons for.employing conventional SedHeat, Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS), and/or other emerging technologies for geothermal energy harvesting. Positive implications to nations's and global energy transition efforts are inferred.