GEOTHERMAL ENERGY: REPORT OF A SYMPOSIUM

Abstract

( Symposium held at the University of Durham on 15 th November, 1980) I. INTRODUCTION The aims of the symposium were to summarise the current state of knowledge concerning geothermal energy and the possibilities for its economic extraction in the United Kingdom. The interpretation of geochemical data on the thermal fluids in certain prospective areas was also discussed. The President, Dr G. A. L. JOHNSON, opened the meeting and presented an introductory contribution on behalf of Professor SIR KINGSLEY DUNHAM who was indisposed and unable to be present. Professor M. H. P. BOTT (University of Durham) gave details of the origins of the escaping heat in the earth and of the possible reasons for the differences in heat flow in various parts of the crust. He made particular reference to heat flow over the Alston Block originating in the Weardale Granite. Dr R. A. DOWNING (Institute of Geological Sciences) discussed the potential geothermal systems in the United Kingdom and referred to the results of drilling the first geothermal test well at Marchwood, near Southampton. Dr W. M. EDMUNDS (Institute of Geological Sciences) explained how geochemical techniques gave important information on likely reservoir temperatures at depth, the source of the thermal fluids and highlighted problems such as corrosion and difficulties in disposing of the fluids once they had reached the surface. II. THE EXPLOITATION OF THE EARTH’S CRUSTAL HEAT FLOW In giving Professor Sir Kingsley Dunham’s introductory contribution the President explained the differences between high- and low-enthalpy geothermal energy. In the former case, ...