About this Training Course
Geothermal reservoir engineering sits at the intersection of thermodynamics, fluid flow, and subsurface geology—making it essential for unlocking sustainable energy from the Earth. This 5-day advanced technical programme provides a comprehensive understanding of geothermal systems, focusing on how heat and fluids behave underground and how these can be efficiently extracted for power generation and direct use applications.
The course combines fundamental theory with real-world applications, guiding participants through geothermal system types, reservoir behaviour, drilling practices, and well performance evaluation. Participants will work with real datasets, engineering tools, and case studies drawn from global geothermal projects, enabling them to translate theory into practical decision-making in the field.
Designed for professionals working in geothermal and related energy sectors, the programme emphasises applied learning. By the end of the course, participants will have the technical confidence to assess geothermal resources, interpret field data, and address operational challenges such as scaling, corrosion, and reinjection—key factors in ensuring long-term reservoir sustainability.
Q1: What is geothermal reservoir engineering?
Geothermal reservoir engineering studies underground heat and fluid systems. It looks at how heat, water, and steam move through rock. It also helps engineers produce energy in a safe and sustainable way. In addition, it uses reservoir models, fluid flow, and thermodynamics to guide field development.
Q2: How does a geothermal reservoir differ from an oil and gas reservoir?
Both systems involve fluid flow through porous rock. However, geothermal reservoirs focus on heat extraction rather than hydrocarbons. They often contain water and steam. They also operate at higher temperatures. Because of this, geothermal engineering must address scaling, corrosion, and reinjection more carefully.
Q3: What are the main types of geothermal systems?
The main types are hydrothermal systems, enhanced geothermal systems, and geopressured systems. Hydrothermal systems are the most common. They can be liquid-dominated or vapour-dominated. Enhanced geothermal systems improve rock permeability so operators can recover more heat.
Q4: What does “heat in place” mean?
Heat in place is the total thermal energy stored in a geothermal reservoir. Engineers use it to estimate the energy potential of a project. They calculate it from reservoir volume, rock and fluid properties, and temperature differences. As a result, it helps guide early project planning.
Q5: What are the main challenges in geothermal reservoir management?
Geothermal reservoir management must deal with scaling, corrosion, pressure decline, and thermal depletion. These issues can reduce efficiency and raise costs. For this reason, engineers monitor reservoir behaviour closely. They also use models and field data to support long-term performance.
Q6: How is well productivity measured in geothermal systems?
Engineers usually measure well productivity with discharge tests. These tests record flow rate, pressure, and enthalpy. The results show how well a geothermal system performs. They also help estimate power output and improve production plans.
Q7: What role does reinjection play in geothermal systems?
Reinjection returns cooled fluid to the reservoir after heat extraction. It helps maintain pressure and supports sustainable production. It can also reduce environmental impact. However, poor reinjection design may cool the production zone too quickly.