A sensitivity analysis of a single extraction well from deep geothermal aquifers in the Cheshire Basin, UK

Cassidy, Nigel J.; Egan, Stuart S.; Griffiths, Dan; Brown, Christopher Simon

Abstract

Deep hot sedimentary aquifers (HSAs) are targeted for geothermal exploitation in the Cheshire Basin, UK. In this study, a single extraction well targeting the Collyhurst Sandstone Formation was modelled on MATLAB coupling heat and fluid flux. The Collyhurst Sandstone Formation in the Crewe area of the Cheshire Basin is expected to be found at a depth of 2.8–3.5 km, and was chosen as an area for geothermal exploration due to the high demand for energy. Model results suggest that low-enthalpy, deep geothermal systems with thick HSAs are affected by both geological and engineering parameters. The results of this study highlight that the thermal gradient, hydraulic conductivity, production rate, length and position of the well screen are the key parameters capable of affecting the success and viability of any single well scheme. Poor planning during exploration and development can hinder the productivity of any single-well scheme, and these parameters must be considered to fully understand the risk. Engineering parameters, such as the length of the well screen, can be used during well planning to mitigate geological risks in the aquifer, whilst the results presented can also be used as a guide for energy potential under varying conditions.

Citation

Cassidy, N. J., Egan, S. S., Griffiths, D., & Brown, C. S. (2022). A sensitivity analysis of a single extraction well from deep geothermal aquifers in the Cheshire Basin, UK. Quarterly Journal of Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology, 55(3), Article qjegh2021-131. https://doi.org/10.1144/qjegh2021-131

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Dec 2, 2021
• Online Publication Date: Jan 31, 2022
• Publication Date: Aug 8, 2022
• Publicly Available Date: May 30, 2023
• Journal: Quarterly Journal of Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology
• Print ISSN: 1470-9236
• Publisher: The Geological Society
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 55
• Issue: 3
• Article Number: qjegh2021-131
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1144/qjegh2021-131
• Public URL: https://keele-repository.worktribe.com/output/421918
• Publisher URL: https://qjegh.lyellcollection.org/content/early/2021/12/07/qjegh2021-131/tab-article-info