Energy Resources (GEO150)

Content

This course offers a comprehensive examination of subsurface resources with a focus on their role in the global energy transition. Students will explore various methods of extracting and utilizing subsurface resources, with particular attention to the geo-engineering principles underlying these technologies. The course looks into the following key areas:

1. Conventional and Unconventional Hydrocarbons Reservoirs:

   • Exploration and Extraction: Understanding the geological formations and the mechanism of hydrocarbon generation, migration, and exploration.
   • Resource Management: Assessing the environmental impacts of hydrocarbon resource management and utilization.

2. Deep Geothermal Energy Systems:

   • Geothermal Systems: Mechanism of formations, type of resources and exploration of deep geothermal systems with the potential for sustainable energy production.
   • Technological Challenges: Addressing the geological and engineering challenges associated with deep geothermal energy extraction.

3. Nuclear Power: Subsurface and Storage:

   • Subsurface Resources: Understanding the subsurface resources and analyzing the potential and challenges of using subsurface environments for nuclear power generation.
   • Nuclear Waste Storage: Investigating considerations for the long-term underground storage of nuclear waste.

4. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS):

   • Key Components: Understanding the capturing, transport and storage components of the technology and diving into key aspect of subsurface formations suitable for carbon storage, ensuring safe, long-term sequestration.
   • Storage, Monitoring and Verification: Methods for storage, monitoring CO2 storage sites to ensure environmental safety.

5. Hydrogen Storage:

   • Energy Transition Role: Analyzing the role of hydrogen as a key component in the energy transition and its storage challenges.
   • Geological Hydrogen Storage: Exploration of subsurface hydrogen storage methods, focusing on the geological conditions required for efficient storage.

Throughout the course, students will engage with case studies and practical examples to deepen their understanding of how these subsurface resources contribute to the global energy landscape. The course also emphasizes the importance of sustainable and responsible resource management in the context of energy security and environmental stewardship

Learning outcome

Knowledge

Upon successful completion of this course, candidate will be able to:

K1: Utilize advanced geo-engineering techniques to explore, assess, and manage subsurface resources, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact and maximizing resource efficiency.

K2: Assess the environmental challenges associated with deep geothermal energy production, nuclear waste storage, carbon capture and storage (CCS), and hydrogen storage in subsurface environments.

K3: Develop strategies for the sustainable and responsible management of subsurface resources, considering the economic, environmental, and societal implications.

K4: Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios through case studies, evaluating the success and limitations of subsurface resource projects across different regions and geological settings.

K5: Work effectively in multidisciplinary teams to design and propose innovative solutions for the exploration, extraction, and storage of subsurface resources, with an emphasis on supporting the global energy transition.

K6: Communicate Scientific Findings: Demonstrate the ability to communicate complex concepts and findings to both specialist and non-specialist audiences, through written reports, presentations, and discussions.

Skills

By the end of the course, candidates will have developed the following skills:

S1: Skilled in applying Geo-Engineering methods to explore subsurface resources and reservoir characterization.

S2: Ability to utilize software tools for simulating subsurface conditions and processes, with an emphasis on resource management and sustainability

S3: Competent in assessing environmental risks associated with subsurface resource exploitation, including induced seismicity and contamination.

S4: Capable of designing and managing complex projects related to the exploration, extraction, and storage of subsurface resources, with a focus on sustainability.

S5: Skilled in communicating technical information and scientific findings to a variety of audiences, including professionals and the public.

S6: Ability to produce clear, concise, and well-structured reports and presentations that convey complex geoscientific concepts effectively

General competence

G1: The candidate is able to evaluate and communicate the distribution and economic potential of the earth's energy resources (renewable and non-renewable), and their roles in an increasing energy need and requirements for a sustainable development of the environment.

G2: The candidate is able to communicate technical information in an efficient and objective way for different user and interest groups in order to achieve an optimal use of energy resources for society and climate.

Required prerequisite knowledge

Recommended prerequisites

Exam

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Study Adviser:

Study Program Director:

Head of Department:

Method of work

This course will include digital teaching methods:

• • pre-recorded videos in place of lectures
  • online meetings

This course will also have physical only meetings.

The student is responsible for checking the course syllabus and class meeting information provided by the instructor in Canvas.

Open for

Course assessment

Literature