IRGIE – Inventory of Geothermal Resources of the Aeolian Islands
The IRGIE (Inventory of Geothermal Resources of the Aeolian Islands) project is the result of a synergy between the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) and the Sicilian Region. Its goal is to sustainably facilitate the energy autonomy of the Aeolian archipelago, with a particular focus on geothermal energy. The research aims to investigate in detail the geothermal potential of the Aeolian Islands for the exploitation of this resource at low, medium, and high temperatures.
CNR-IGG's involvement in the project concerns WP2 "Geothermal Fluid Characterization," which aims to study the fluid in terms of chemical composition, temperature, and pressure and to develop conceptual geochemical models of the investigated geothermal systems.
In this regard, the first step is to collaborate with partners to develop a database based on previous publications. This will support the subsequent direct sampling phase in the Aeolian archipelago, which will involve taking samples for chemical and isotopic analyses of water and gas from wells, springs, thermal springs, and fumarolic zones.
IGG staff is also involved in WP4 "Geothermal Potential Estimation," specifically in the activities required to develop a numerical reactive flow model at sites of particular geothermal interest. This will investigate the system's pre-use status and potential post-use response.
Following data acquisition, processing, and modeling, further work will focus on disseminating the results and analyzing social and environmental aspects.
The project is funded by the Sicilian Region's Department of Energy – Department of Energy and Public Utilities.