BIBLIOS

Document type
Conference papers

Document subtype
Extended abstract/Short paper

Title
Low-Enthalpy Geothermal Resources in Azores Islands (Portugal): A Summary

Participants in the publication
J.C. Nunes (Author)
Instituto Dom Luiz (IDL), Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749–016, Lisboa, Portugal
H. Sá (Author)
M.R. Carvalho (Author)
Dep. Geologia
IDL

Summary
The Azores Archipelago, located in the North Atlantic, consists of nine volcanic islands situated at the junction of the North American, Eurasian, and African plates. This geotectonic setting results in significant seismic and volcanic activity, including secondary volcanism such as fumarole fields and thermal springs. The archipelago contains 27 main volcanic systems and 1,750 monogenetic volcanoes, including basaltic scoria cones, trachytic domes, and eruptive fissures.\nThe intense volcanic activity supports the presence of high-enthalpy geothermal reservoirs on islands like São Miguel, Terceira, and Graciosa, where geothermal fields such as Ribeira Grande and Pico Alto are currently being explored. Additionally, 48 low-enthalpy geothermal manifestations (22-98 °C) have been identified, mainly in the Furnas Volcano. The thermal waters result from interaction with volcanic gases and exhibit varied compositions, including sulfurous and bicarbonate waters.\nCurrently, the Azores have only two low-enthalpy geothermal utilizations in hotel infrastructures, but an expansion of these resources is expected for balneological projects. The sustainable development of this renewable energy source can boost the local economy and attract investments, ensuring environmental and social benefits.\n


Event
1st GEO-RIN Conference, Geothermal Research and Innovation Network for Portugal and Spain, 2-6 June

Publication Identifiers

Address
Benasque, Spain

Organizers
Geothermal Research and Innovation Network for Portugal and Spain


Keywords
Low-enthalpy geothermal resources volcanic hydrothermal systems balneology Azores.