Zero-impact seismic in support of geothermal exploration

Abstract • January 1, 2023

While the ability of high-density seismic data to improve subsurface imaging has been well understood for some time, the logistical complexity and concomitant expense of acquiring high-density seismic data has precluded most geothermal explorers from accessing the technology.

Recent advances in seismic data acquisition technology have resulted in a step change reduction in the weight, size, and cost of cableless seismic receiver nodes. Concurrently, we have made significant progress developing lightweight seismic source technology with similar reductions in size and weight. When used together, these technologies dramatically reduce cost, risk, and environmental impact of onshore seismic operations.

In late 2021, we deployed a field team to a geothermal exploration project in Northwest British Columbia, Canada to test the ability of these emerging technologies to image the subsurface in an area with complex geology. We will review the field test conducted and the results thereof and we will compare the outcomes with seismic data acquired in the same area in 1985.

We will describe how applying new nimble seismic technology in an integrated way can transform the landscape for geothermal exploration.

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