Geothermal Simulation Applied to the Optimization of Underground Energy Storage Systems

To optimize the design and to model the working cycle of an underground thermal energy storage facility (UTES) a geothermal reservoir simulator was created on the basis of the Complex Systems Modelling Platform C (CSMP ) software library (Matthhai, et al., 2001) following two different approaches: a Boussinesq approximation and a full Pressure-Temperature-Enthalpy scheme (based on Coumou et.al. 2009). A series of benchmark tests were performed to assess efficiency and accuracy of both schemes, given the standard operating temperature ranges. The simulator is then used to determine optimal well locations and operating schedules for a UTES construction project.