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The Trias Westland Geothermal Project Adapted from Information by T&A Survey The Trias Westland geothermal project is a partnership between Flora Holland, HVC, Westland Infra, and the Mu n i c i p a l i t y o f We s t l a n d i n t h e Netherlands. It aimed to be the first geothermal project in the Netherlands to drill as deep as the Triassic layer two miles beneath the surface. Geothermal projects in Westland have traditionally been conducted in the Lower Cretaceous at a depth of around 1.5 miles, which can provide 10-20% of the heat demand. A geological study performed by T&A Survey for the Municipal ity of Westland showed the deeper situated Triassic layer has a heat potential capable of providing about 80% of the heat demand. The temperature of the water in the 200 million-year-old layer is around 266-300ºF (130-150°C). The first drilling for the project was performed in a location corresponding to a comprehensive research program. This helped provide relevant information on the suitability and productivity of the Triassic layer. Drilling was initially focused on the Lower Cretaceous layer, and only afterward continued to the Triassic reservoir. The geothermal system would be implemented in one of these layers depending on which had the most drilling success. When the production test was performed in the Lower Cretaceous Reservoi r, hot water f lowed very smoothly into the basin and the gas in the water was flared off. Samples were taken to determine the pressure and temperature. It was decided the geothermal project would work best in this layer, which was the same one where the other Westland geothermal projects have extracted their heat. The Triassic layer was not suit- able for cost-effective heat recovery at the location chosen for the project. Traces of gas were also found, which would add to the complexity of a production test. These factors led to the decision to leave the Triassic layer, and the lower part of the pit was closed off with concrete plugs. Although Trias Westland would have loved having a production well in the Triassic layer, the greenhouse horticulture companies and share- holders are still positive about the possibi l ities offered by the Lower Cretaceous layer. It is estimated 30 companies could be connected to the geothermal doublet. Open the Doorway to all the Event Photos during Alberta Water Well Drilling Association 2018. To see all the photos from this event, go to www.worldwidedrillingresource.com or click here. Feel free to download at will and print the photo(s) of your choice. Compliments of WorldWide Drilling Resource ® . Photos are copyrighted and released for personal use only - no commercial use permitted. 44 AUGUST 2018 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® GEO