Short Course 6
Geomechanics for Successful Geothermal Developments: From Site Characterization to Long-Term Reservoir Performance
Level: Foundation
Understanding the mechanical behaviour and operational limits of the subsurface is fundamental to the safe, efficient and sustainable development of geothermal energy systems. Mechanical processes control wellbore stability, drilling performance, fracture stimulation, injectivity, productivity, induced seismicity, reservoir deformation and, ultimately, the long-term sustainability of geothermal operations.
This short course provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanical response of the subsurface to engineering activities and interventions throughout the entire geothermal project lifecycle. Participants will gain the knowledge required to anticipate geomechanical challenges, evaluate operational risks and develop mitigation strategies that improve safety, efficiency and asset longevity.
The course is structured into six modules: (1) Why geomechanics matters; (2) Fundamentals of geomechanics; (3) Engineering-induced changes in geothermal reservoirs; (4) Multiphysics measurements and subsurface characterization; (5) Practical case studies; and (6) Key takeaways, emerging technologies and an open discussion.
Designed for geothermal developers, operators, engineers, geoscientists, geomechanicists and project managers, the course demonstrates how geomechanics provides the scientific and engineering framework that integrates geology, engineering and operations for informed decision-making throughout geothermal developments. By integrating geological observations, multiphysics measurements and numerical modelling, participants will learn how geomechanical workflows support engineering decisions, reduce operational risk, optimize reservoir performance and contribute to the long-term success of geothermal energy projects.
Date
6 November
Time
9:00-17:00
Location
Hannover Congress Centrum
Register and start learning now
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will have an idea of how to:
1. Understand why geomechanics is fundamental to geothermal energy systems.
2. Recognize the mechanical response of the subsurface to engineering activities.
3. Become familiar with the measurements, characterization techniques and modelling workflows used in geothermal geomechanics.
4. Recognize common geomechanical challenges and mitigation strategies throughout the geothermal project lifecycle.
5. Appreciate how geomechanics contributes to safer, more efficient and more sustainable geothermal developments.
Course Outline
Module 1: Why geomechanics matters
– The energy transition and the subsurface as critical infrastructure
– Mechanical feedback in geothermal systems
– Why every geothermal project is a geomechanical project
Module 2: The governing physics
– Rock properties
– Stress & strain
– Pressures and temperatures – Fluids
– Failure mechanisms
– Q&A
Module 3: Engineering activities modify the subsurface
– Drilling
– Injection
– Production
– Reservoir stimulation
– Stress and pressure changes
– Thermal and chemical effects
– Fault and fracture stability
– Q&A
Module 4: Measurements and characterization
– Geological observations
– Seismic data
– Multiphysics well data
– Laboratory measurements
– Multiphysics monitoring
– Mechanical Earth Models
– Q&A
Module 5: Case studies and engineering decisions
– Case studies
– Risk assessment
– Reservoir optimization
– Lessons learned
– Q&A
Module 6: What should we take away, and where is the field heading?
– Key lessons
– Emerging technologies
– AI and digital workflows
– Future challenges
– Open discussion
– Q&A
Participant Profile
This course is designed for professionals with a similar role such as: Geothermal developers Operators (Drilling, Production) Subsurface & reservoir engineers, Geoscientists & geomechanicists Project managers
Prerequisites
No formal prerequisites are required.
