Assessment of energy potential in the Khizi tectonic zone  of the Caspian-Guba research region  (on the example of the Bayimdagh-Tekchay field)

A.V. Islamzade; P.Y. Mammedov

doi:10.24028/gj.v47i5.325663

Authors

A.V. Islamzade Institute of Geology and Geophysics of the Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan Republic, Baku, Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan
P.Y. Mammedov Institute of Geology and Geophysics of the Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan Republic, Baku, Azerbaijan, Ukraine

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24028/gj.v47i5.325663

Keywords:

geothermal energy, thermal parameters of rocks, energy evaluation

Abstract

This study assesses the energy potential of the Khizi tectonic zone within the Caspian-Guba research region, focusing on the Bayimdagh-Tekchay field. Given Azerbaijan’s increasing emphasis on alternative energy sources, geothermal energy emerges as a viable and sustainable option. The region’s geothermal resources, mainly concentrated in the Greater and Lesser Caucasus, the Talysh-Lankaran zone, and the Kur-Araz basin, remain underutilized due to Azerbaijan’s rich oil reserves.

Thermal waters in the Caspian-Guba region have been analyzed based on stratigraphic data, geothermal measurements, and hydrogeological studies. The Siyazan monocline, a key tectonic feature, separates various geological formations and influences temperature variations with depth. Temperature distribution analyses in the Bayimdagh-Tekchay zone reveal a correlation between rock age, dip angles, and geothermal gradients. The Productive layerformation, predominantly consisting of conglomerates, gravels, and clays, plays a crucial role in subsurface heat retention.

Experimental findings indicate that the region possesses significant thermal water reserves, exceeding 30,000 m2/day in certain areas such as Khachmaz, Khudat, and Nabran. The study also highlights the potential for repurposing abandoned oil wells for geothermal energy production. Injected water, upon heating through rock contact, can be extracted to supply local heating networks, industrial facilities, and even power generation using the Organic Rankine Cycle or Kalina Cycle technologies.

An economic feasibility analysis demonstrates that energy extracted from selected wells in Bayimdagh-Tekchay could meet the heating requirements of hundreds of households. This underscores the importance of further investment in geothermal infrastructure to optimize energy recovery and enhance sustainability. The research ultimately advocates for a transition towards green energy in Azerbaijan, emphasizing geothermal energy’s role in reducing reliance on conventional fossil fuels while promoting environmental conservation.

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