Skip to main content

Advertisement

SpringerLink
Log in

Modeling geothermal energy potential in the Ruwan-Zafi hot spring region of northeastern Nigeria using high-resolution aeromagnetic data

  • Original Article
  • Published:
Modeling Earth Systems and Environment Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Renewable energy has become a viable solution to tackle energy challenges in Africa, and Nigeria is actively exploring various options to enhance its energy supply. Geothermal energy has attracted significant attention, especially following the discovery of multiple geothermal sites across the country. This study focuses on the Ruwan-Zafi Hot Spring (RZHS) region with the aim of investigating its suitability for geothermal energy exploration and exploitation. Spectral analysis of aeromagnetic data was used to model the depths to the top (DTT) and centroid of subsurface magnetic source. Through these computations, the depth to the bottom of magnetic source (assumed Curie Point Depth, CPD) was derived for the region. Results show DTT values ranging between 0.89 and 1.08 km, and CPDs ranging between 9.96 and 14.92 km. In addition, estimated heat flow values ranged between 73.62 and 128.39 mWm− 2. The shallow CPD and high heat flow values within the RZHS area is largely due to magmatic intrusions at depth and indicates the location’s potential for geothermal energy resources. Results also suggest the possibility of steam production at shallow depths (< 2 km). The identification of subsurface structures linked to geothermal reservoirs at the RZHS location offers valuable insights for guiding future geothermal exploration activities in the region and recommends further exploration and resource assessment.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
Fig. 8
Fig. 9

Similar content being viewed by others

Data availability

The data utilized in this study is accessible upon request from the corresponding author.

References

  • Abraham E, Itumoh O, Chukwu C, Rock O (2018) Pure appl Geophys 176:22–36. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00024-018-2028-1. Geothermal Energy Reconnaissance of Southeastern Nigeria from Analysis of Aeromagnetic and Gravity Data

  • Adepelumi AA, Olorunfemi MO (2019) Geothermal energy potentials of Nigeria: a review. J Earth Sci Geotech Eng 9(4):101–116

    Google Scholar 

  • Akintude AO, Oladele S, Ojo AA (2017) Integration of remote sensing and geophysical data for geothermal potential assessment in Northeastern Nigeria. Renewable Energy 107:330–340

    Google Scholar 

  • Al-Ghriybah M, Alnsour MA, Al-Hyari L (2023) Using Weibull distribution model for wind energy analysis of small-scale power generation at Al-Salt city in Jordan. Model Earth Syst Environ 9:2651–2661. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-022-01643-9

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Anakwuba E, Okeke H, Chinwuko I, Onyekwelu C (2016) Estimation of Curie isotherm and heat flow of eastern Chad basin, Nigeria from spectral analysis of aeromagnetic data. SEG, International Conference and Exhibition, Barcelona, Spain, 3–6 April 2016

  • Bansal AR, Anand SP, Rajaram M, Rao VK, Dimri VP (2013) Depth to the bottom of magnetic sources (DBMS) from aeromagnetic data of Central India using modified centroid method for fractal distribution of sources. Tectonophysics 603:155–161

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bazilian M, Hobbs B, Blyth W, MacGill I, Howells M, Arent N (2011) Considering the energy, water and food nexus: towards an integrated modelling approach. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 15(9):5896–5903

    Google Scholar 

  • Benkhelil J (1982) Benue Trough and Benue Chain. Geol Mag 119:115–168

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Benkhelil J (1986) Structure et évolution geodynamique du basin intercontinental de la Bénoué (Nigeria). Thése de Doctorat d’Etat, Université de Nice. P. 226

  • Benkhelil J, Robineau B (1983) Le Fosse de la Benoue est-Il Un rift? Bull. Centres Recherches Expl Prod Elf-Aquitaine 7:315–321

    Google Scholar 

  • Bhattacharyya BK, Leu LK (1975) Spectral analysis of gravity and magnetic anomalies due to two-dimensional structures. Geophysics 40:993–1013

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Blakely RJ (1988) Curie temperature analysis and tectonic implications of aeromagnetic data from Nevada. J Geophy Res: Solid Earth 93:11817–11832

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Chukwu CG, Udensi EE, Abraham EM, Ekwe AC, Selemo AO (2018) Geothermal energy potential from analysis of aeromagnetic data of part of the Niger-Delta Basin, Southern Nigeria. Energy 143:846–853. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2017.11.040

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Dar FA, Venkateshwarlu M, Khan I et al (2024) Modeling the environment and climatic conditions of Ladakh Himalaya using Quaternary sediments. Model Earth Syst Environ. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-024-01965-w

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Dolmaz MN, Ustaomer T, Hisarli ZM, Orbay N (2005) Curie point depth variations to infer thermal structure of the crust at the african-eurasian convergence zone, SW Turkey. Earth Planet Space 57:373–383

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Eletta BE, Udensi EE (2012) Investigation of the Curie point isotherm from the magnetic fields of eastern sector of central Nigeria. Geosciences 2:101–106

    Google Scholar 

  • Emetere ME, Akpan GE (2022) Investigation of potential geothermal well locations in Nigeria using remote sensing and field measurement. Int J Sus Energy 42:1. https://doi.org/10.1080/14786451.2023.2217950

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Grogan L (2015) Energy access and forest dependence: evidence from rural Liberia. J Dev Econ 118:68–79

    Google Scholar 

  • Guiraud M (1990) Tectono-sedimentary framework of the early cretaceous continental bima formation (Upper Benue Trough, Northeastern Nigeria). J Afr Earth Sci 10:341–353

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Guiraud M, Maurin JC (1992) Early cretaceous rifts of Western and Central Africa: an overview. Tectono-phys 213:153–168

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Haruna IV, Ahmed HA, AS (2012) Geology and tectono-sedimentary disposition of the Bima sandstone of the Upper Benue Trough (Nigeria): implications for sandstone-hosted uranium deposits. J Geol Min Res 4(7):168–173

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ijeh BI, Anyadiegwu FC, Onwubuariri CN et al (2023) Evaluation of geothermal resource potential of the Lower Benue Trough using aeromagnetic and radiometric data. Model Earth Syst Environ 10:695–721. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-023-01796-1

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ishola KS, Akerele PO, Folarin O et al (2020) Application of aeromagnetic data to map subsurface structural features in Ewekoro, Southwestern Nigeria. Model Earth Syst Environ 6:2291–2302. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-020-00812-y

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Jain S (1988) Total magnetic field reduction—the Pole or Equator? A model study. Can J Explor Geophys 24(2):185–192

    Google Scholar 

  • Jessop AM, Habart MA, Sclater JG (1975) The world heat flow data collection. Geotherm Serv Can Geotherm Ser 50:55–77

    Google Scholar 

  • Kammen DM, Agusdinata DB (1997) A rural energy model for Indonesia. Energy Sustain Dev 4(2):31–36

    Google Scholar 

  • Kassem Y, Gökçekuş H, Iravanian A, Gökçekuş R (2022) Predictive suitability of renewable energy for desalination plants: the case of güzelyurt region in northern Cyprus. Model Earth Syst Environ 8:3657–3677. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-021-01315-0

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Khandker SR, Barnes DF, Samad HA (2009) Energy Poverty in Rural Bangladesh. World Bank

  • Maden N (2009) Crustal thermal properties of the Central Pontides (Northern Turkey) deduced from spectral analysis of magnetic data. Turkish J Earth Sci 18:1–10

    Google Scholar 

  • Manea M, Manea VC (2011) Curie point depth estimates and correlation with subduction in Mexico. Pure Appl Geophy 168:1489. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00024-010-0238-2

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Maurin JC, Benkhelil J, Robineau B (1985) Fault rocks of the Kaltungo Lineament (northeastern Nigeria) and their relationship with the Benue Trough. J Geol Soc Lond 143:587–599

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Mayhew MA (1985) Curie isotherm surfaces inferred from high altitude magnetic anomaly data. J Geophys Res: Solid Earth 90(B3):2647–2654

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Obande GE, Lawal KM, Ahmed LA (2014) Spectral analysis of aeromagnetic data for geothermal investigation of Wikki warm spring, north-east Nigeria. Geothermics 50:85–90

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ojoawo AI, Sedara S (2016) Magnetic data analysis for potential geothermal energy development: case of Ikogosi warm spring, Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria. Elixir Earth Sci 100:43660–43664

    Google Scholar 

  • Okubo Y, Matsunaga T (1994) Curie point depth in northeast Japan and its correlation with regional thermal structure and seismicity. J Geophys Res: Solid Earth 99:22363–22371

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Okubo Y, Graf RJ, Hansen RO, Ogawa K, Tsu H (1985) Curie point depths of the island of Kyushu and surrounding areas, Japan. Geophysics 53(3):481–494

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Okubo Y, Matsushima J, Correia A (2003) Magnetic spectral analysis in Portugal and its adjacent seas. Phys Chem Earth 28:511–519

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Onyejiuwaka IS, Iduma UK (2020) Assessment of Geothermal Energy Potential of Ruwan Zafi, Adamawa State and environs, northeastern Nigeria, using high Resolution Airborne magnetic data. Cur Res Geosc 10(115). https://doi.org/10.3844/ajgsp.2020.1.15

  • Oyedepo SO (2012) Energy and sustainable development in Nigeria: the way forward. Energy Sustain Soc 2:15

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rabeh TT, El Rahman AAA (2022) Illustrating the active faults using integrated geophysical data along the Suez Canal-district, Eastern Desert, Egypt. Model Earth Syst Environ 8:5053–5059. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-022-01382-x

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rajaram M, Anand SP, Hemant K, Purucker ME (2009) Curie isotherm map of Indian subcontinent from satellite and aeromagnetic data. Earth Planet Sci Lett 281:147–158

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ravat D, Pignatelli A, Nicolosi I, Chiappini M (2007) A study of spectral methods of estimating the depth to the bottom of magnetic sources from near-surface magnetic anomaly data. Geophys J Int 169:421–434

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ross HE, Blakely RJ, Zoback MD (2006) Testing the use of aeromagnetic data for the determination of Curie depth in California. Geophysics 71(5):L51–L59

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Salem A, Ushijima K, Elsiraft A, Mizunaga H (2000) Spectral analysis of aeromagnetic data for geothermal reconnaissance of Quseir area, northern Red Sea, Egypt. Proceedings of the world geothermal congress: 1669–1674

  • Selvarajoo A, Muhammad D, Arumugasamy SK (2020) An experimental and modelling approach to produce biochar from banana peels through pyrolysis as potential renewable energy resources. Model Earth Syst Environ 6:115–128. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-019-00663-2

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Shuey RT, Schellinger DK, Tripp AC, Alley LB (1977) Curie depth determination from aeromagnetic spectra. Geophy J Inter 50:75–101

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sovacool BK, Dworkin MH (2015) Energy justice: conceptual insights and practical applications. Energy Policy 105:658–667

    Google Scholar 

  • Spector A, Grant FS (1970) Statistical models for interpreting aeromagnetic data. Geophysics 35:293–302

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Stampolidis A, Tsokas G (2002) Curie point depths of Macedonia and Thrace, N. Greece. Pure appl Geophys 159:1–13

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Tanaka A, Okubo Y, Matsubayashi O (1999) Curie-temperature isotherm depth based on spectrum analysis of the magnetic anomaly data in east and southwestern Asia. Tectonophysics 306:461–470

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Trifonova P, Zheler Z, Petrova T (2006) Curie point depths of the Bulgarian territory inferred from geomagnetic observations. Bulgarian Geophy J 32:12–23

    Google Scholar 

  • Trifonova P, Zheler Z, Petrova T, Bojadgieva K (2009) Curie point depths of the Bulgarian territory inferred from geomagnetic observations and its correlation with regional thermal structure and seismicity. Tectonophysics 473:362–374

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Tsokas G, Hansen RO, Fyticas M (1998) Curie point depth of the island of Crete (Greece). Pure Appl Geophy 159:1–13

    Google Scholar 

  • Umeji O (2013) The south and central Benue trough: stratigraphic revisions. In book: Proceedings of University of Jos PTDF Chair Endowment Fund Seminar, April 2012Edition: First 2013 Chapter: No. 4 Publisher: University of Jos, PTDF EMC

  • Yakubu JA, Okeke FN, Obiora DN (2020) Estimation of Curie point depth, geothermal gradient and heat flow within the lower Benue trough, Nigeria using high resolution aeromagnetic data. Model Earth Syst Environ 6:1439–1449. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-020-00760-7

    Article  Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geology/Geophysics, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike Ikwo, P.M.B. 1010, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

    Ema Abraham & Princewill Okechukwu

  2. Three and Three Consult Limited, Abuja, Nigeria

    Princewill Okechukwu

Authors
  1. Ema Abraham
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Princewill Okechukwu
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Ema Abraham.

Ethics declarations

Conflict of interest

On behalf of all authors, the corresponding author states that there is no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Publisher’s Note

Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Rights and permissions

Springer Nature or its licensor (e.g. a society or other partner) holds exclusive rights to this article under a publishing agreement with the author(s) or other rightsholder(s); author self-archiving of the accepted manuscript version of this article is solely governed by the terms of such publishing agreement and applicable law.

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Abraham, E., Okechukwu, P. Modeling geothermal energy potential in the Ruwan-Zafi hot spring region of northeastern Nigeria using high-resolution aeromagnetic data. Model. Earth Syst. Environ. (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-024-02023-1

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-024-02023-1

Keywords

Search

Navigation