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Project Code [RDD-00437]

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Project title

Thermal Resource Extraction from a Deep Standing Col-umn Well (Thermowell)

Primary Funding Agency

Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

Geological Survey Of Ireland (GSI)

Lead Organisation

Gavin and Doherty Geosolutions Ltd.

Lead Applicant

n/a

Project Abstract

The ThermoWell project aims to demonstrate how suitable and applicable Deep Standing Column Wells are to Irish geological conditions, and to showcase an alternative way to utilise subsurface heat resources in Ireland. Deep Standing Column Wells (DSCW) represent a promising technology to support the uptake of deep geothermal energy solutions in Ireland compared to traditional deep geothermal and large-scale ground source heat technologies. The high capital expenditure and associated risk of unknown subsurface conditions that have stunted the growth of a geothermal industry in Ireland to date could be offset by the use of high thermal capacity DSCWs. The ThermoWell project will test and demonstrate the viability of this technology by drilling a DSCW at a site at Hotwell House, Enfield, Co. Meath, where several previous geological investigations have taken place. The completed DSCW will be subject to a state-of-the-art monitoring and testing programme which will include amongst others, thermal response testing and fibre optic distributed temperature sensing. All the data collected as part of the ThermoWell project will feed into a geological and hydrogeological assessment of the finished well. A final report outlining the totality of works undertaken will be produced. This report will give a breakdown of the thermal capacity and cost of a DSCW when compared with traditional deep geothermal exploration and shallow geothermal technologies. The ThermoWell project aims to demonstrate how suitable and applicable DSCWs are to Irish geological conditions and showcase an alternative way to utilise subsurface heat resources.

Grant Approved

�215,638.00

Research Hub

n/a

Research Theme

Carbon Stocks, GHG Emissions, Sinks and Management Options

Start Date

09/03/2020

Initial Projected Completion Date

08/03/2023