Reinjection in geothermal fields − A worldwide review update

The location of reinjection wells and the amount of reinjected fluid, in addition to problems, adverse effects and benefits associated with production, have been taken into consideration. This study shows that the design of reinjection is most often empirical and site-specific, because the effect of injection on production depends on the setting of the given geothermal system. However, there are some generic similarities depending on whether the system is vapour-dominated, liquid dominated, or hot-water. Experience has shown that reinjection should be planned as early as possible in the field development process and it should be flexible, as it is likely to change with time. An optimum reinjection strategy should balance the requirements of sustaining the reservoir pressure and preventing early thermal breakthrough of reinjected water. The effects of reinjection on the natural hot recharge and, therefore, on energy recovery from the system may also be important.