Numerical modelling

A numerical model is used to reproduce the hydrodynamic, thermal, and biogeochemical response of the aquifer to the temperature fluctuations induced by the operation of the facility. This digital twin of the aquifer is built up and calibrated using the information obtained from the continuous on-site measurements and from the periodic sampling.

Outputs from the groundwater monitoring contribute to define both the flow and transport material properties of the aquifer, especially important to replicate both the regional groundwater flow conditions in the project area and the heat transport properties of the subsurface. Using the outputs from the periodic hydrogeochemistry and microbiology sampling, we can couple geochemical reactions and microbial respiration kinetics into the fluid flow and solute transport model, providing a unique resource to simulate the reaction of the aquifer to the HT-BTES facility over time.

The validated model can be further used for long-term predictions of the aquifer response to the thermal energy storage. This will help us to assess different operational conditions of the facility with the aim of both optimizing its operation and reducing any potential adverse effects on the aquifer.