Abstract

'The IMAGE project will develop a reliable science based exploration and assessment method to 'IMAGE' geothermal reservoirs using an interdisciplinary approach based on three general pillars: 1 Understanding the processes and properties that control the spatial distribution of critical exploration parameters at European to local scales. The focus will be on prediction of temperatures, in-situ stresses, fracture permeability and hazards which can be deduced from field analogues, public datasets, predictive models and remote constraints. It provides rock property catalogues for 2 and 3. 2 Improving well-established exploration techniques for imaging and detection beyond the current state of the art and testing of novel geological, geophysical and geochemical methods to provide reliable information on critical subsurface exploration parameters. Methods include a) geophysical techniques such as ambient seismic noise correlation and magnetotellurics with improved noise filtering, b) fibre-optic down-hole logging tools to assess subsurface structure, temperature and physical rock properties, and c) the development of new tracers and geothermometers. 3 Demonstration of the added value of an integrated and multidisciplinary approach for site characterization and well-siting, based on conceptual advances, improved models/parameters and exploration techniques developed in 1 and 2. Further, it provides recommendations for a standardized European protocol for resource assessment and supporting models. The IMAGE consortium comprises the leading European geothermal research institutes and industry partners who will perform testing and validation of the new methods at existing geothermal sites owned by the industry partners, both in high temperature magmatic, including supercritical, and in basement/deep sedimentary systems. Application of the methods as part of exploration in newly developed fields will provide direct transfer from the research to the demonstration stage.'