Weert, Annelotte (2025) A tectono-stratigraphic reconstruction of the West Netherlands Basin and characterization of its geothermal systems. [Tesi di dottorato]

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Abstract

Renewable energy sources are crucial in the global transition to a low-carbon society. Geothermal energy stands out as a promising geo-resource, offering a reliable, sustainable, and low-emission energy alternative. Regions with favorable geothermal gradients, such as volcanically active zones and rift basins, offer ideal conditions for geothermal exploration. This study explores geothermal systems in rift basins, enhancing the understanding of how basin evolution influences the characteristics of geothermal systems. This work uses the West Netherlands Basin as a case study, having a special focus on its heterogeneous fluvial sandstone reservoirs that are hosted by the syn-kinematic sediments of the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous Nieuwerkerk Formation. By integrating the basin’s extensive 3D seismic reflection and well dataset, this work provides new insights on the complex interplay of geological processes that shape rift basins and their geothermal reservoir rocks. This research highlights the critical role of tectonic processes and fault dynamics and their importance for reservoir characterization. The West Netherlands Basin demonstrates how multiple phases of rifting can create a compartmentalized geothermal system with major variations in sedimentary thickness. Fault growth and reactivation are shown to significantly influence the creation of accommodation space and associated syn-kinematic sediment deposition patterns, which can cause lateral and vertical heterogeneity in reservoir properties, like porosity and permeability. Reversed fault reactivation during later basin inversion creates structural complexities, such as pop-up structures and fault-propagation folds. The presence of these structures can increase the geothermal exploration risk and caprock integrity. The results of this work enhance the understanding of the complex interplay of multiple-phase rifting, basin inversion, and associated fault reactivation and how these processes influence reservoir quality and geothermal potential. The Nieuwerkerk Formation, the main geothermal target in the West Netherlands Basin, has been characterized at a basin scale to identify high-potential zones within its complex fluvial deposits. An interplay of tectonic activity and sea level fluctuations governed the dynamic fluvial environment, with high-energy braided river and delta-plain deposits offering greater geothermal potential than isolated meandering systems. The work enhances the understanding of the impact of geological processes on reservoir properties, such as channel connectivity and sedimentary architecture, and offers insights into fluvial reservoir characterization applicable to similar geological settings worldwide. This PhD thesis emphasizes the importance of integrating geological, geophysical, and stratigraphic data to enhance the understanding of heterogeneous geothermal reservoirs in structurally complex rift basins. It provides valuable knowledge for advancing geothermal exploration by enhancing reservoir characterization and reducing exploration risks. The work supports the sustainable development of geothermal energy as a key resource in mitigating climate change.

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