TECHNOLOGICAL PROBLEMS AND ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS ARISING FROM THE DEVELOPMENT OF GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Abstract

Тhe field of application and the efficiency of using geothermal resources of a deposit depend on its energy potential, the total reserve and flow rate (productivity) of drilling wells, the chemical composition, mineralization and aggressiveness of waters, the presence of a consumer and his remoteness, the temperature and hydraulic conditions of drilling wells and a number of other factors.

In the conditions of Armenia, the most promising sources may be near-surface foci of recent volcanic eruptions. During the exploration, three promising sites were identified in the

Syunik volcanic highlands. Further in-depth studies gave grounds to consider these areas of geothermal fields as geothermal deposits.

Therefore, the operation of geothermal sources should be based on preliminary geological studies. Currently, 550 extinct volcanoes have been mapped and studied in our country, the foci of which, according to geological data, lie within several kilometers of the earth's surface. And volcanic foci contain huge reserves of thermal energy. The development of geothermal energy is a promising area that can significantly solve the issue of Armenia's energy security. This is the only technology that can ensure guaranteed electricity production, since sources of other energy (solar, wind, regenerative) are seasonal in nature.

Drilling of geothermal wells due to the high temperature of the borehole environment affects many technological processes.

The article shows the technological risks that arise when drilling geothermal wells and ways to prevent them, as well as environmental problems and measures that need to be taken to minimize negative consequences.