This course introduces students to geothermal fields exploration, engineering and exploitation. It aims at helping students familiarize with the features and properties of the subsurface where sources of geothermal energy can be spotted and produced. High enthalpy, low enthalpy and shallow geothermal energy systems are presented along with their applications. Geological issues, geophysical exploration, hydrogeological aspects, reservoir engineering and applicable law are among the topics discussed. The course further provides the means to develop combined approaches for designing a geothermal project, selecting suitable techniques, appropriate equipment and materials as well as to optimize cost and revenue under the constraint of technically and environmentally safe development.
Students are asked to study a related topic, organize the material, write an extended report and give a detailed presentation so as to enhance their ability to present technical topics to any audience.
