Assessment and Modeling of Geothermal Potential in Northeastern Morocco

Abstract

The northeast of Morocco is known for many hot water aquifers that emerge at Liasic formations which are the source of the primary thermal springs. In this region of Morocco, the geothermal gradient and heat flow are in relationship with the upward water circulation from Neogene volcanism at depth to the surface of their path through the area's tectonic fractures. Studies on thermal characteristics have revealed promising potential. However, no study has been carried out to estimate the possible exploitation of geothermal energy at the origin of thermal manifestations on the surface. In this paper, we model the geothermal potential stored in thermal reservoirs, using the volumetric method to evaluate and model the power potential through frequency distribution results by Monte Carlo simulation with Python. The model reveals a promising result for the Beni Snassen-Triffa and Eastern Rif areas an advantage for power generation and they could initially support 36-47.4 MWe and 10.6-13.9 MWe power plant respectively for 25 years.