A conceptual model and reservoir assessment for the Mutnovsky geothermal field, Kamchatka, Russia

Abstract

In this report, a general description is given on the Mutnovsky geothermal field. Evaluation of formation temperature and well pressure data is presented. The results of these studies are incorporated into a conceptual model of the geothermal system. An upflow zone of 300°C water is assumed underneath the Mutnovsky volcano, south of the wellfield. The fluid flows laterally towards the north into the present wellfield, where the flow changes direction towards the northeast. All the reservoir volume seems to be in a single-phase, liquid condition, apart from a steam zone in the central part of the wellfield. Wellbore simulation studies indicate that during production the Mutnosky wells flash down to their feedzones and some distance into the reservoir. The enthalpy increases with time during production for wells producing from the single-phase liquid zone. A quantitative study of the production capacity, by using volumetric assessment and random distribution in some of the reservoir properties, suggests that up to 80 MW of electric power can be produced for a 30-year generation period.