Unlocking the geothermal energy potential of old sedimentary systems: Linking reservoir quality, geomechanics and flow

Decarbonising heat is one of the major challenges in achieving net-zero, particularly in mid-high latitude regions where there is often increased heat demand. The difficulties in transporting heat over long distances, requires a heat source in close proximity to demand. However, utilising geothermal energy could be an ideal solution in many cases as a heat resource exists everywhere, as temperature increases with depth.

Developing Hot Sedimentary Aquifer (HSAs) systems presents an excellent opportunity to leverage existing techniques and knowledge gained from the hydrocarbon industry, while supporting a just transition. Despite having a firm foundation there are still some fundamental questions remaining, related to the interplay of reservoir quality and hydro-mechanical properties, particularly in old and diagenetically complex sedimentary sequences.

Using the Carboniferous/Devonian formations in the Midland Valley of Scotland as case studies, this PhD project will explore what controls reservoir quality in prospective formations, and how this in turn effects hydro-mechanical properties, and ultimately project viability. This is directly relevant for geothermal energy projects in the Central Belt of Scotland, but the methods, results and implications will be useful in unlocking the potential of other similar formations elsewhere.

The project will include field work, experimental core analysis, petrography, petrophysics and rock mechanics laboratory work. The PhD candidate will also have the opportunity to use the results in upscaled geomechanical and flow simulation models.

Supervisory team

Dr. Nathaniel Forbes Inskip (HWU), Dr. Amy Gough (HWU), Dr. Sean O’Neill (Shell International)

Partners

The project is in collaboration with the British Geological Survey and industrial partner Shell International.

Eligibility

This project is available to Home and Overseas students.

Applicants should have a BSc/MSci 2:1 and/or Masters (MSc) at Merit/Distinction level (>60%) and/or evidence of significant relevant professional experience equivalent to Masters level. Applicants with a geology/geomaterials/geochemistry/geophysics/physics/applied geoscience/reservoir engineering related qualification and an interest in field work, geochemical, petrophysical, or geomechanical methods are particularly encouraged. Applicants should further have a strong motivation to succeed in scientific research, excellent presentation, and scientific writing skills as well as very good to excellent English language skills (verbally and written). Scholarships will be awarded by competitive merit, taking into account the academic ability of the applicant.

How to apply

To apply you must complete our online application form our online application form.

Please select PhD GeoEnergy Engineering as the programme and include the full project title, reference number and supervisor name on your application form. You will also need to provide a CV, a supporting statement (1-2 A4 pages) outlining your suitability and how you would approach the project, a copy of your degree certificate and relevant transcripts and an academic reference.

You must also provide proof of your ability in the English language (if English is not your mother tongue). We require an IELTS certificate showing an overall score of at least 6.5 with no component scoring less than 6.0, or a TOEFL certificate with an overall score of at least 85, including reading 20, listening 19, speaking 20 and writing 21. Alternatively, if you have received an English-taught Bachelors or Masters degree from one of the countries listed on the UK Government Guidance under ‘Who does not need to prove their knowledge of English’, and it was obtained less than two years from your intended start date, you should provide evidence of your award that clearly states it was delivered and assessed in English language.

Please contact Dr. Nathaniel Forbes Inskip ([email protected]) for informal information.

Please contact [email protected] for technical support with your application.

Timeline

The closing date for applications is 8 November and applicants must be available to start in January 2025 or May 2025. Please include your preferred start date as part of the supporting statement.