Numerical Simulation on the Continuous Operation of an Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage System Under Regional Groundwater Flow

Abstract

A three-dimensional numerical model for ground water flow and heat transport is used to analyze an aquifer thermal energy storage system operating under a continuous flow regime. This study emphasizes the influence of regional ground water flow on the performance of the system under various operation scenarios. The pressure gradient across the system, which determines the direction and velocity of regional ground water flow, has a substantial influence on the aquifer thermal storage. Injection/production rate and geometrical size of the aquifer used in the model also impact the predicted temperature distribution at each stage and the recovery water temperature. The hydrogeological-thermal simulation is shown to be an integral part in the prediction of performance for a process as complicated as aquifer thermal energy storage systems.