Work

Integrating geological, engineering, and economic indexes in geothermal play fairway mapping: A case study from the Vienna pull-apart basin

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study develops a GIS-based, categorical geothermal play fairway map for a pull-apart basin and applies it to the Czech sector of the Vienna Basin. It is intended as a quick, easily reproducible basic evaluation of the geothermal potential in pull-apart basins, based on pre-existing data from hydrocarbon exploration in known petroleum province. Six geological, engineering, and economic indexes (e.g. thermoelectric production index, potential for scaling and corrosion, investment return potential) were calculated from data available from the petroleum industry to evaluate electric power-generation potential. Although fluid flow rates are locally favorable, geothermal fluid temperatures are too low for Organic Rankine Cycle operation, resulting in uniformly poor outlet-temperature and cost indexes. The integrated play fairway map, therefore, indicates no viable potential for the power generation. However, temperature and flow-rate patterns suggest that parts of the basin may be suitable for the direct-use geothermal heating.

Source: Geothermics

DOI: 10.1016/j.geothermics.2026.103660

Authors: Lucia Ledvényiová, Michal Nemčok, Samuel Rybár

Institutions: VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, Comenius University Bratislava

Language: English

Topic: Geothermal Energy Systems and Applications

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,220