Sustainable Use of Petrothermal Resources—A Review of the Geological Conditions in Poland

Abstract

This article considers the possibility of using unconventional geothermal resources in enhanced geothermal systems (EGSs) under Polish geological conditions. In order to obtain additional environmental benefits, EGS systems using CO2 as a medium were analyzed. In addition to the production of clean energy, this allows for the geological storage of CO2 during the energy production process. The aim of this paper is to analyze the geological conditions for EGS-CO2 systems. Criteria is established for selecting an optimal location for the implementation of the first pilot installation of this type in Poland. Due to the depth of deposition and predicted thermal and petrophysical parameters, the optimal location occurs in sedimentary rocks in the central part of the Polish Lowland (Krośniewice-Kutno area). However, other favorable zones meeting the established criteria for simultaneous energy production and CO2 sequestration have been identified in northwestern parts of Poland (Szczecin Trough) and in southern Poland, in the area of the Carpathian Foredeep (Upper Silesia region).

Hydraulic Fracturing in Enhanced Geothermal Systems—Field, Tectonic and Rock Mechanics Conditions—A Review

“…The restrictive EU regulations on greenhouse gas emissions and the desire to reduce the share of fossil fuels in the national energy balance encourage the search for new ways of obtaining green energy, including energy from deep geothermal sources. The success of Western European EGS projects sparked a discussion on the profitability of EGS installations in Polish conditions [74,[79][80][81].…”

“…Explanation: σ V was calculated for given depth, based on average density of overlying rocks-2.4 g/cm 3 from [78]. Prospective areas were marked based on data from [74]. Horizontal stress directions and faulting regime were compiled from [75][76][77]86].…”

“…The compact sandstones of the Lower Buntsandstein are considered potential deposits for the EGS, especially since their thickness locally exceeds 1500 m. The Middle Triassic (Muschelkalk) formations, formed as limestones and marls, are characterized by a much lower thickness, up to 300 m. The Upper Triassic, with a thickness of up to 2400 m, is represented by clastic and evaporative sediments of Keuper and clayey sandstone deposits of the Rhaetian. The most promising structure for EGS in Poland is the Mogilno-Łódź Trough, while the Upper Silesian Block seems to be a promising location for the future [74].…”

Multi-Criteria Studies and Assessment Supporting the Selection of Locations and Technologies Used in CO2-EGS Systems

“…Therefore, a system utilising supercritical CO 2 as the working fluid, including partial CO 2 sequestration is considered in this article. Preliminary research on the use of CO 2 as a heat transfer fluid in enhanced geothermal systems are numerous-some of them are following [8][9][10][11][12]. Tarkowski et al [13] also analysed the legal conditions for injection of CO 2 and geothermal energy recovery.…”