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Geothermal Frontier – Beta

This is an integrated knowledge and data sharing platform that aggregates global datasets on institutional research capacity and country-level geothermal profiles. It is designed to support cross-sector collaboration and the advancement of next-generation geothermal technologies. The platform facilitates access to structured data, technical insights, and networked expertise to accelerate the development of higher-enthalpy resources and drive cost-competitive deployment at scale.

TNO

Rijswijk Centre for Sustainable Geo-energy

Institution Type: Research Center or National Laboratory

Institution Website

Rijswijk, The Netherlands

Contact

Frank van Bergen
Program Manager
frank.vanbergen@tno.nl

Areas of Expertise

  • Resource Characterization & Modeling
  • Drilling & Well Design
  • Monitoring & Instrumentation
  • Reservoir Creation & Management

Resource Characterization & Modeling

This area focuses on identifying, assessing, and modeling geothermal resources to understand their size, temperature, and viability. It supports better decision-making by improving predictions of subsurface conditions and resource potential.

  • Exploration, Appraisal, Site Selection Active
  • Geological Modeling Active
  • Geophysical Modeling Active
  • Reservoir Modeling Active
  • Coupled Process Modeling Active
  • Crustal Stress, Geomechanics/Rock Mechanics Active
  • Water/Rock Geochemistry Active
  • Seismic Risk & Mitigation Active
  • Water Resource Management Active
  • High-Performance Computing (HPC) for Coupled or Multiphysics Simulations Active
Large scale high-pressure and high-temperature experimental set-ups, flow loops.
Max Temperature (°C) 225
Max Pressure (MPa) 100
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes
Various numerical models
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously No

Drilling & Well Design

This area covers technologies and expertise needed to safely and efficiently access geothermal resources at depth. It includes innovations in drilling methods, materials, and well design and construction to reduce costs and effectively reach higher-enthalpy systems in more geologic regions.

  • Conventional Rotary Drilling Active
  • Energy Drilling Active
  • Hybrid Systems Active
  • Well Completion (Cements, Liners, Flow Control) Active
  • Casing Materials (Thermal Stresses, Corrosion, Abrasion) Active
50T experimental drilling set-up
Temperature Note Ambient
Max Pressure (MPa) 25
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously No
Experimental 250 T test rig and 20" cased research well with full circulation system (up to 3500 l/min)
Temperature Note Ambient
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously No

Monitoring & Instrumentation

This area enables real-time measurement and analysis of geothermal systems through advanced sensors and data tools. It supports performance optimization, risk reduction, and improved understanding of subsurface behavior over time.

  • Downhole Sensors Active
  • Electrical Components for Geothermal Wells Planned
  • Fiber Optic Sensing Systems (DTS, DAS, DSS) Active
  • Real-Time Telemetry & Data Acquisition Systems Planned
  • High-Temperature Electronics for Sensors & Data Systems Planned
  • Permanent Surface Passive Seismic Array Active
Large scale (2.5 x 2.5 x 2.5 m) climate chamber
Max Temperature (°C) 225
Pressure Note Depends on high-pressure system installed in chamber
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes
Research well equipped with fibre optics
Temperature Note Ambient
Pressure Note Hydrostatic pressure
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously No

Reservoir Creation & Management

This area focuses on developing and sustaining productive geothermal systems, including enhanced and closed-loop systems. It involves techniques to develop the geothermal reservoir, manage the system, and optimize fluid flow and heat extraction over the project’s life.

  • Closed-Loop Systems Active
  • EGS (Hydraulic Stimulation, Zonal Isolation, High-Temp Proppants) Active
  • Thermal Stimulation or Heat Management Planned
Test set-up for testing reservoir enhancement tools
Temperature Note Ambient
Pressure Note Ambient
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously No

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