GIS based exploring of low-enthalpy geo-energy potentials in the Subsaharan area in Central Africa

This paper deals with investigations of regional-scale assessment of low-enthalpy resources for cooling and heating in the Subsaharan area in Central Africa. The investigation of the ground is necessary to identify promising areas for the design, planning and development of Ground Source Heat Exchanger location. Two hundred boreholes with average deep of 47 m have been performed. The results of estimation based on subsurface thermal properties and hydrogeological parameters, using Geographic Information System, gives more details in the implantation of borehole heat exchanger (BHE) and groundwater heat exchanger (GWHE). The BHEs can be implanted in the Eastern and Northern part of the isostatic level map. GWHE can be installed in the zones of Makary, Goulfey and Kouseri at a depth less than 32 m. The exploitation of these geothermal systems in the area can help reduce greenhouse gases. Approximately 2900 ton/Ton of oil equivalent of CO2 emissions per year can be reduced and 1,924 kilo ton of oil equivalent current consumption of electricity for cooling and heating can be saved by using geothermal energy.