The Hellenic Authority for Geological and Mineral Research (H.S.G.M.E.), under a Contract-Agreement with the Ministry of Environment and Energy (Υ.Π.ΕΝ.), is implementing an important project titled “Management Plans for Low-Temperature Geothermal Fields – DIAGEOTH”. The project aims to develop a model Management Study for low-enthalpy geothermal (g/t) fields of local interest (T≤90°C).
This initiative arises from the current lack of appropriate management plans for the sustainable and rational use of the geothermal potential of the country’s local-interest fields. It seeks to establish a model study and standardize the process based on real conditions and data from the exploitation of geothermal resources, ensuring the optimal and sustainable use of low-temperature geothermal fields nationwide.
The Management Plans will include, among other things:
(a) geological and dynamic (numerical) modeling of the fields, simulation of fluid flow and thermal transfer within the reservoir, and the application of long-term exploitation/management scenarios using specialized software (Leapfrog Geothermal and FEFLOW) and open-source tools, incorporating all necessary available data,
(b) continuous, real-time monitoring of critical reservoir parameters through a telemetry network,
(c) periodic field measurements and fluid sampling,
(d) study of the physicochemical characteristics of the fluids to determine their origin, circulation, and potential effects on equipment (scaling, corrosion),
(e) investigation of fluid and heat transfer processes, as well as the optimal design of the fluid transportation network and operational infrastructure, and
(f) assessment of the disposal and reinjection of waste fluids at suitable locations, among others.
Pilot Management Plans will be implemented in two selected low-temperature geothermal fields of local interest: Neos Erasmios–Mangana (Xanthi) and Nea Apollonia (Thessaloniki). These pilot applications will help produce valuable insights and establish a model Management Study to guide the preparation of similar plans for other local geothermal fields.
To carry out this project, H.S.G.M.E. has signed three important Programmatic Agreements with:
- the School of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), with Scientific Supervisor Assoc. Prof. Vasileios Gaganis, for collaboration on modeling, simulation, and fluid mechanics,
- the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the University of Thessaly, with Scientific Supervisor Prof. Nikolaos Andritsos, for research on scaling and corrosion issues, and
- the Department of Earth Sciences of the University of Florence, with Scientific Supervisor Prof. Orlando Vaselli, for specialized geothermal fluid sampling, isotopic analysis, and interpretation of results.
The contribution of these Greek and international academic institutions is of great importance, thanks to their extensive scientific expertise and experience in the relevant fields. The close collaboration established through these agreements is expected to yield significant results that will decisively support the sustainable management and rational exploitation of Greece’s low-enthalpy geothermal fields.
The project “Management Plans for Low-Temperature Geothermal Fields – DIAGEOTH” is being implemented by the Department of Geothermal and Thermal Mineral Resources (GEOTHE) of H.S.G.M.E., under the scientific supervision of Dr. Apostolos Arvanitis (Head of Department), with the participation of team members Markos Xenakis, Marios Avrazis, Polyanthi Trimi, Christos Mylonas, Evangelos Stefanos, and Stamatina Seferli. It forms part of the broader framework of upgrading the operations of the General Secretariat for Energy and Mineral Resources to support the business environment and promote outward-looking activities, incorporating pioneering actions for Greece that aim at the sustainable development of the nation’s geothermal potential.