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Unconventional energy resources in a crowded subsurface: Reducing uncertainty and developing a separation zone
1British Geological Survey, The Lyell Centre, Research Avenue South, Edinburgh EH14 4AP, United Kingdom..
The Science of the Total Environment
|May 27, 2017
Summary
Legacy coal mines in the UK impact unconventional energy extraction. Using mine plans reduces uncertainty, but mines create pathways, necessitating 3D spatial planning and separation zones to mitigate risks.
Area of Science:
- Earth Science
- Energy Resources
- Subsurface Engineering
Background:
- Anthropogenic alteration of subsurface by coal mining is widespread in the UK and Western Europe.
- Highly populated areas are exploring unconventional energy resources like shale gas and geothermal energy.
- Decision-making for subsurface energy extraction requires reduced uncertainty in complex geological and hydrogeological processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To illustrate how legacy coal mine data can reduce uncertainty for subsurface energy resource development.
- To describe an adapted methodology for shale gas/oil resource estimation that includes separation zones.
- To highlight the importance of 3D spatial planning for utilizing the subsurface energy system while mitigating risks.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing legacy coal mine plans and associated boreholes to reduce uncertainty in subsurface energy resource geometry and faulting.
- Developing an adapted methodology for shale gas/oil resource estimation incorporating a vertical separation zone.
- Analyzing the impact of legacy coal mines on subsurface stress and hydrogeochemical states.
Main Results:
- Legacy coal mine plans and boreholes provide valuable data in areas lacking hydrocarbon well data and 3D seismic surveys.
- Legacy coal mines alter subsurface conditions and can form pathways to the surface, limiting unconventional resource volumes.
- An adapted methodology for shale gas/oil estimation includes a 'stand-off' zone to prevent hydraulic fracturing from intersecting mines.
Conclusions:
- 3D spatial planning and separation zones are key to utilizing the crowded subsurface energy system.
- Mitigating resource sterilization and environmental impacts is crucial for unconventional energy development.
- This approach can positively inform public and policy debate on subsurface energy utilization.
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