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Microseismic Activity of Geothermal Systems (MAGS)

Projektlaufzeit:
01.10.2013 — 30.09.2016
The further development of geothermal systems has recently been affected by the occurrence of perceptible earthquakes which led to concern by the local population. For the public acceptance of deep geothermal energy it is vital to give a clear scientific statement whether the seismicity will stay limited to micro-earthquakes or if the induced events might pose a risk for humans and/or infrastructure. Within the framework of the BMU funded project MAGS concepts will be elaborated how to limit the induced seismicity in deep geothermal systems and thus, avoiding perceptible events.

The utilisation of deep geothermal energy can contribute to climate protection and to enable for a sustainable power supply. However, the further development of geothermal energy has recently been affected by the occurrence of perceptible earthquakes during stimulation and production in geothermal reservoirs. In Germany, earthquakes were registered near the Landau and the Unterhaching geothermal power plant which resulted in concern by the local population. For the public acceptance of deep geothermal energy it is vital to give a clear scientific statement whether the seismicity will stay limited to micro-earthquakes or if the induced events might pose a risk for humans and/or infrastructure. Within the framework of the project MAGS concepts will be elaborated how to limit the induced seismicity in deep geothermal systems. Involved partners of the BMU funded project are scientists from the BGR Hannover, the Freie Universität Berlin, the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, the LMU Munich, the Clausthal University of Technology, and the Technical University Bergakademie Freiberg.

The main goals of MAGS are:

  • Development of concepts to limit micro-seismic activity when utilising deep geothermal systems for energy production.
  • Gain improved knowledge of the processes which cause fluid induced seismic events.
  • Cooperation with authorities and industry for a safe deep geothermal energy production.