Transport and flow modelling of the deep geothermal exchanger between wells at Soultz-sous-Forêts (France)

Abstract : A DFN model (Discrete Fracture Network) built on the basis of fracture data and integrating the regional structural knowledge, allows the reproduction of results of a tracer test performed during a hydraulic circulation test between three boreholes at a depth of 5000 m at the site of Soultz-sous-Forêts. This model highlights the role of the various fracture sets in the understanding of the flow between the deep boreholes and the importance to build a discrete fractures model on the basis of probabilistic analysis of the fracturing data obtained from the well imageries. On the base of this model, which is compatible with the results of the tracer tests which have been performed since 2005, a global model of the site of Soultz-sous-Forêts can now be envisaged.