Date of Award
December 2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Energy Engineering
First Advisor
William Gosnold
Abstract
Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) have the potential for sustainable energy production but require large upfront expenditures and strategic development to be profitable. To reduce costs and increase energy output, this work integrates hydraulic fracturing (HF) modeling with reservoir simulation optimization to improve EGS design and operating efficiency. EGS uses hot, dry rock geothermal resources, mostly crystalline and sedimentary rocks with poor permeability. Shear stimulation is preferred over hydraulic fracturing in EGS reservoirs, but a comprehensive HF strategy is still lacking. This study fills this gap by evaluating hydraulic fracturing and proppant use for optimal EGS development. Hydraulic fracturing in EGS development lacks a cohesive method; thus, its practicality and cost-effectiveness must be investigated. After thorough literature research, simulation-based pattern modeling evaluates heat capacity, recovery factor, mass flow rate, thermal energy recovery, pressure drop, and heat loss. Laboratory procedures include crushing and SEM analysis evaluate proppants under varied closure stresses. Results suggest high-resistance ceramics are best proppants. Furthermore, a 3D numerical simulation model optimizes fracture patterns, with varying fracture permeability improving extraction efficiency by 38% over 30 years. Net Present Value (NPV) and Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) show positive NPV when power prices surpass US$150/MWh, suggesting project feasibility. Below US$120/MWh, NPV is negative, threatening project viability. Integrating hydraulic fracturing modeling and reservoir simulation optimization could improve EGS development efficiency and profitability. Optimizing proppant selection and fracture patterns is key to using EGS for sustainable energy generation.
Recommended Citation
Porlles Hurtado, Jerjes W, "Hydraulic Fracturing And Reservoir Simulation Modeling Of Enhanced Geothermal System Optimization For Economical Energy Production" (2024). Theses and Dissertations. 6562.
https://commons.und.edu/theses/6562