Environmental problems associated with the production of energy from geopressured reservoirs

TLDR: A study of the environmental effects of power production from geopressured reservoirs reveals two important problems that cannot be adequately evaluated at this time: surfaces subsidence and the possible inducement of earthquakes, which could result from the efficient production of power over the lifetime of a reservoir as mentioned in this paper.

Abstract: A study of the environmental effects of power production from geopressured reservoirs reveals two important problems that cannot be adequately evaluated at this time: surfaces subsidence and the possible inducement of earthquakes, which could result from the efficient production of power over the lifetime of a reservoir. These effects must be considered in any environmental impact statement and must be monitored over the entire lifetime of a production facility. A particular reservoir in northwest Cameron County, Texas, was used as a model. Pertinent parameters are as follows: Depth of sand 14,300-15,000 ft; Thickness 700 ft; Temperature 320°F; Reservoir pressure (ave.) 12,000 psi; Total salinity 2,000-6,000 ppm; Permeability 0.10-0.14 Darcy; Porosity 0.25; Area of reservoir 300 mi{sup 2} or more; Well-head pressure 5,000 psi or more. Environmental studies were based upon the properties and location of this model reservoir. (4 figs., 4 refs.)