Geothermal development in Europe faces challenges due to scarcity of subsurface information, particularly in densely populated urban areas, where data acquisi-tion is more difficult. Traditional methods for predict-ing reservoir properties depend on high data density and spatial interpolation through geostatistical ap-proaches. The Horizon-Europe funded project GO-Forward seeks to facilitate a paradigm shift in this field by utilizing a coupled workflow of geological forward modelling techniques, comprising stratigraphic, diagenetic, fault and fracture modelling. This innovative approach al-lows for the physics-based modelling and prediction of reservoir heterogeneities in three dimensions, making it possible to derive valuable insights even in areas with limited data availability. By analysing the regional ge-ological history of reservoir rocks, GO-Forward simu-lates the geological processes that have shaped these systems over time, thereby improving the accuracy of pre-drilling predictions. The project integrates existing simulation tools and methods that have been previously applied in hydrocar-bon exploration and adapts them to the complexities of geothermal environments. This comprehensive model-ling framework not only enhances the understanding of geothermal plays but also significantly reduces pre-drill risk associated with exploration. The methods will be validated in regions with abundant subsurface infor-mation and production data. Once calibrated, the mod-els will be utilized in greenfield areas, supporting the de-risking of geothermal exploration in these locations. GO-Forward emphasizes a combination of technology options tailored to the diverse geological settings repre-sentative of various geothermal plays across Europe, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and effective geothermal energy rollout.
Niederau et al. (Fri,) studied this question.