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DOE's Best Practices for Addressing Induced Seismicity Associated With Enhanced Geothermal Systems

Description: 

In 2004 the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) initiated and participated in an international activity to develop a “Protocol” to address both technical and public acceptance issues surrounding Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS)-induced seismicity. This resulted in an International Energy Agency (IEA) Protocol in 2009 followed by a DOE Protocol in 2012 which served as general guidelines to geothermal operators for the siting, design and operation of EGS systems. The guidance was also used by regulators and to inform the public. Although the DOE Protocol was used and followed by several geothermal operators, the DOE felt a complementary “Best Practices” document was needed and which was developed in 2014. Much has happened in the world of induced seismicity in the past decade resulting in an update of the “Best Practices” document. The increased attention to induced seismicity worldwide, in general, has led to a dramatic increase in research in the causes, impact, and control of induced seismicity. Increased attention has not only been placed on EGS induced seismicity but also on other technologies requiring fluid injection. Notable examples of significant induced seismicity have been from wastewater disposal from oil and gas operations, carbon capture and sequestration, and various waste fluid disposal projects. Like the Protocol, the updated Best Practices is intended to be a living document and to supplement the existing DOE Protocol. It reflects the state-of-the-art knowledge and practices, both technical and non-technical. It is not, however, intended to be a state-of-the-science document. The focus is on current proven technologies. As methods, experience, knowledge, and regulations change, so will the Best Practices.

Session: Seismic Monitoring, Modelling and Management Needed for Geothermal Energy and Geologic Carbon Storage - I

Type: Oral

Date: 5/2/2024

Presentation Time: 08:00 AM (local time)

Presenting Author: Ivan

Student Presenter: No

Invited Presentation: 

Authors