Challenges in Geothermal Development

This book provides a comprehensive characterization of high-temperature geothermal fields worldwide, encompassing diverse geological settings such as extensional and contractional tectonics, silicic and mafic crustal regions, hypersaline and low-salinity fluid environments, and both brittle and ductile lithospheric layers. It also details current geothermal exploration and development efforts in Japan.

Emerging exploration technologies, including Full-waveform Inversion (FWI), Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS), and Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), are introduced and discussed in the context of their practical applications. A central challenge in geothermal development remains the accurate identification of viable targets for production and reinjection wells, as exploratory drilling entails significant costs. Accordingly, this book places special emphasis on target identification strategies, setting it apart from other works in the field.

While global in scope, this book primarily focuses on geothermal development in Japan and features field-based case studies related to well targeting. Authored and reviewed by experienced geothermal engineers, it serves as a valuable resource for professionals engaged in geothermal exploration and reservoir engineering.