Geothermal Energy Utilization in Jordanian Deserts

Abstract

Jordan is blessed with shallow geothermal resources in NE and SE deserts. Jordanian deserts compose more than 70% of the country area. Furthermore, it’s the second vital area in fauna and flora variation after Jordan valley. Geothermal gradient in this area shows high promising future potential. New renewable energy systems installation in Jordan will have a positive environmental and economic contribution to the national bill. Currently, limited geothermal utilizations were evaluated in the Jordanian deserts. Thermal waters in the deserts were used for irrigation only. Six different applications for direct and indirect geothermal applications in Jordanian deserts were suggested and evaluated. Ground source heat pumps for heating and cooling purposes and crops drying were expected to be the most appropriate applications of geothermal energy in the deserts. Geothermal utilizations were investigated regarding their probable impact on local and national economic scale. Therefore, an integrated plan for geothermal applications in Jordan is becoming very essential in the future. It has been found that geothermal energy in Jordanian deserts could be utilized for different applications. Despite of the potential political, technical and financial barriers, exploiting new geothermal utilization in the deserts will contribute to solving socio-economic and environmental problems challenging poor deserts areas.