Ensuring Long-Term Viability of Geothermal Reservoirs During Drilling and Production

Operations: Key Approaches and Lessons from Existing Projects

Mbega Ramadhani Ngata

a Tanzania Geothermal Development Company Limited, P. O Box 14801, Dar es Salaam

Email: ngatambega1@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Geothermal energy is a renewable source of power that harnesses the heat stored beneath the
Earth’s surface. Sustainable production practices in geothermal reservoirs during drilling and
production involve a holistic approach that integrates technological innovation, environmental
stewardship, community engagement, and efficient resource management. This paper aims to
present the long-term viability of drilling and production in geothermal reservoirs through
reservoir characterization, risk assessment and mitigation planning, well design optimization for
reservoir protection, monitoring and maintenance, sustainable production practices by utilizing
MatLab, previous research and lessons from existing geothermal projects.

The main aim of this paper is to analyse the need of effective reservoir management during
drilling and production for maximizing the longevity and productivity of geothermal projects
through implementing the sustainable production practices, utilizing advanced drilling
technologies, integrating data monitoring systems with advanced modelling techniques which
allows for real-time assessment of reservoir performance and predictive analysis of future
behaviour. Moreover, this paper examines the collaboration among industry stakeholders,
research institutions, and government agencies for advancing geothermal technology and best
practices.

The paper revealed that the prolonged exploitation of a geothermal reservoir can lead to cooling
of the rock formations, reducing the temperature gradient necessary for sustained power
generation which detailed analysis and plan. Additionally, pressure decline and mineral
deposition which impacted its long-term productivity leading to reduce overall efficiency of the
reservoir performance.
Lastly, this paper presented and advised the future research directions for ensuring long-term
viability such as implementing advanced monitoring techniques such as micro seismic
monitoring, fiber-optic sensing, and tracers can provide real-time data on reservoir conditions,
enabling proactive management strategies. However, developing sophisticated geomechanical
models can help predict how reservoirs will respond to drilling and production activities,
allowing for optimized operational strategies that minimize negative impacts. Additionally,
research into innovative thermal stimulation methods, such as hydraulic fracturing or injection of
nanoparticles, can help maintain or enhance reservoir temperatures to sustain long-term
productivity. Conducting comprehensive risk assessments that consider geological, operational,
and environmental factors is essential for identifying potential issues early on and implementing
mitigation measures effectively. Investigating techniques like reinjection of treated wastewater
or engineered fluids back into the reservoir can replenish lost fluids and restore pressure levels,
extending the lifespan of geothermal resources. By addressing key challenges proactively
through ongoing research and development efforts, we can sustainably harness geothermal
energy for future generations.

Keywords: Geothermal energy; geothermal reservoir; drilling; monitoring techniques;

geomechanical models; MatLab