Sedimentary basins and hard rock basement are crucial geological settings for geothermal energy in Europe. Sedimentary basins, often containing productive aquifers, can reach temperatures of up to 100°C and are characterised by high porosity and permeability, making them ideal for geothermal extraction. Meanwhile, hard rock basement formations, typically composed of igneous or metamorphic rocks, present opportunities for enhanced geothermal systems, where heat can be accessed at greater depths.
The URGENT project will focus on improving exploration methods specifically for these geological formations, widely represented across Europe, to enhance urban geothermal energy development.
Sources:
https://www.brgm.fr/en/reference-completed-project/new-prospecting-methods-deep-geothermal-resources
https://geoexpro.com/geothermal-energy-from-buried-basement-rocks/
https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/504718/1/accepted hydro paper Aug 2013.pdf
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