A discussion of major geophysical methods used for geothermal exploration in Africa

Geophysics provides a range of methods for the exploration of geothermal sources. This range is so broad that it can sometimes embarrass the geophysicist. The present paper classifies these methods according to several criteria: best-fitted geological environment, main assets and limitations of each method, preliminary or detailed nature of each method and even the specific objective of the exploration to be carried out. This classification could therefore help to significantly reduce costs and time loss related to trial uncertainty and bad choices in selecting the appropriate method. In order to provide necessary information for potential geothermal investors in Africa, the paper addressed several aspects such as the geological setting and the geothermal potential, the population density, the energy needs or demand, the current electricity tariff and the business environment or opportunities in the continent.