Assessing the Geothermal Potential of the Green Valley Mining Community

Thesis Abstract

The Green Valley Mining Community, characterized by extensive subsurface mineral extraction activities, presents a promising yet underexplored opportunity for sustainable geothermal energy development, which could significantly mitigate local reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to regional renewable energy portfolios. Despite its potential, comprehensive assessments of geothermal resources in the area remain limited, primarily due to the paucity of integrated geological, geophysical, and hydrothermal investigations. This study aims to evaluate the geothermal potential of the Green Valley Mining Community through a multidisciplinary approach, with specific objectives to characterize subsurface temperature profiles, delineate geothermal reservoirs, identify geothermal surface manifestations, and evaluate socio-economic feasibility for geothermal energy utilization. The research adopts a mixed-methods design combining quantitative geophysical surveys with qualitative community engagement. The quantitative component involves the collection of gravity and magnetic data over a 50-square-kilometer area, complemented by temperature gradient measurements in 20 boreholes and resistivity surveys across the community. The sample comprises geological features within the mining zone, 150 local residents, and stakeholders involved in community development and mining operations. Data collection instruments include portable gravimeters, magnetometers, geothermal temperature loggers, structured interview questionnaires, and focus group discussion guides. To ensure reliability and validity, data are calibrated against existing geological and hydrogeological maps, with cross-validation of geophysical results through laboratory-based spectral analysis of rock and fluid samples. Data analysis employs several analytical techniques geophysical data are processed using inversion modeling in Oasis montaj software, with thermal conductivity assessed via laboratory tests; temperature profiles are analyzed using regression analysis to estimate subsurface heat flow; stakeholder perceptions are examined through thematic analysis of interview transcripts; and the integrated data are synthesized within the framework of the Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) theory, alongside the Utilization of Heat Flow Theory, to identify viable geothermal zones. The potential geothermal reservoirs are interpreted considering the geothermal gradient, hydrothermal alteration mineralogy, and structural geology, supported by Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping for spatial analysis. Expected findings include the identification of high-temperature zones exceeding 150°C at depths of 2,000 meters, correlation between surface manifestations such as hot springs and geothermal reservoirs, and regional heat flow anomalies indicative of substantial geothermal energy potential. A mapping of viable drilling targets and resource estimates will highlight areas for pilot projects. The socio-economic analysis is anticipated to reveal community readiness and potential barriers to geothermal development, including economic, environmental, and policy considerations. The study’s contribution to knowledge lies in providing an integrated geothermal resource assessment tailored to a mineral-rich, historically mining-dependent community and demonstrating a replicable framework for similar contexts elsewhere. It bridges technical geoscience insights with socio-economic feasibility, thus informing sustainable energy planning strategies. The primary conclusion emphasizes that Green Valley possesses significant geothermal resources that are feasible for harnessing through targeted drilling and reservoir management, contingent upon overcoming certain technical and economic barriers. Recommendations include regional stakeholder engagement, detailed site-specific exploration, development of policy incentives for renewable energy investments, and capacity building within the community to foster sustainable geothermal utilization. The study also advocates for further research into the long-term sustainability of geothermal projects, environmental impact assessments, and the integration of geothermal energy into the local energy mix to achieve climate resilience and economic diversification in mineral-rich communities.