Geothermal potential of Harrat Rahat, Northern Arabian Shield: geological constraints

Abstract

Arabian Shield offers a strong potential for geothermal energy. However, only a limited amount of exploration effort has taken place. Harrat Rahat is a recent volcanic area located along the Makkah-Madinah-Nafud volcanic line in western Saudi Arabia. This study is oriented to identify the geothermal potential of Harrat Rahat. The geologic data was collected and processed. In the current study, we focus on evaluating the potential sources of subsurface heat and groundwater. Subsurface heat is based on the age of erupted volcanoes and the expected volume of subsurface magma chambers. An analogy with an existing geothermal field in a similar setting as Mexico suggests that the faults and the coincident seismicity may be associated with higher permeability. It is concluded that Harrat Rahat is characterized by a good geothermal potential for future geothermal energy source production.