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Geodata Mapping 3D Modell
Unlocking Geothermal Potential: The Tagus Basin's Sustainable Energy Future

Geothermal potential of a sedimentary basin (Tage Basin, North Madrid).

Context:

The Tagus Basin, particularly the Gran Madrid area, spans approximately 1,500 km² and is one of Spain's most promising geothermal regions. This sedimentary basin features a multilayered sequence of Tertiary clastic deposits resting on a crystalline substratum, providing diverse opportunities for geothermal energy utilization.

Through seismic data and deep exploratory drilling, geothermal resources were evaluated up to a depth of 5,000 m. The study segmented these resources into four use categories: shallow, medium, deep, and ultra-deep, as outlined in Table 1.

Key Insights:

  • Shallow depths (0–200 m): Ideal for geothermal probes, underground heat/cold storage, and aquifer-based systems.
  • Medium depths (500–1,000 m): Supports district heating/cooling networks.
  • Deep sources (1,500–3,000 m): Feasible for high-capacity heating, geoelectricity cogeneration, and even lithium and helium production.
  • Ultra-deep reservoirs (3,500–5,000 m): Suitable for power generation and combined heat and power (CHP) systems.

Geothermal Potential Assessment:

The study utilized volumetric evaluation methods to estimate the accessible and recoverable resources in the Gran Madrid and NE Madrid areas. This approach provided projections for energy production, system longevity, and resource sustainability over 75 years.

Gran Madrid Area (1,400 km²):

  • Total heat potential: 730 PJ.
  • Geothermal power generation: 20 TWh.

NE Madrid Area (150 km²):

  • Total heat potential: 170 PJ.
  • Geothermal power generation: 8.4 TWh.

Results and Projections:

From the analyzed data (Table 2 and Figure 4), the geothermal resources show significant promise for sustainable energy development:

  • Renewable heat potential: Estimated at 22.3 x 10^18 J.
  • Exploitable heat: 7 x 10^17 J for Gran Madrid and 1.7 x 10^17 J for NE Madrid.
  • Longevity: System configurations ensure a thermal lifespan of 75 years without reservoir cooling.

The development of ultra-deep sources using Engineered Geothermal Systems (EGS) technology could further enhance energy outputs, particularly for power generation and combined heat and power (CHP) applications.

Conclusion:

The Tagus Basin, particularly the Gran Madrid area, holds immense geothermal potential, with applications spanning heating, electricity generation, and resource extraction. By leveraging advanced exploration techniques and sustainable mining schemes, Spain can unlock a cleaner, more resilient energy future.