3D visualization of the Utah FORGE project in Utah, USA.

Circulation Experiments at Utah FORGE: Bear-surface seismic monitoring reveals fracture growth after shut-in

March 12, 2024 by Peter Niemz Geothermics 119 (2024) 102947

Map view and the location of the Utah FORGE project

Recently published in Geothermics, this paper by Peter Niemz et al. of University of Utah Seismograph Stations (UUSS) describes seismic observations from the circulation tests at Utah FORGE in July 2023 using only the regional (near-)surface network of the UUSS. The analysis provides a detailed picture of deep subsurface process. Observations indicate fracture growth and a complex interplay of seismic and aseismic responses in closely located volumes of the geothermal reservoir. Additionally, this work points out some remaining challenges regarding creating fluid pathways between injection and production wells in basement rock, that will be addressed in the upcoming phase of the Utah FORGE project.

Read the full paper HERE

Latest News

Geology of the Utah FORGE Site with Dr. Clay Jones

Geology of the Utah FORGE Site with Dr. Clay Jones

What exactly are the rock types that make up the underground laboratory of Utah FORGE? In this webinar, Dr. Clay Jones describes the geology of the site and surrounding area and the findings from core and cutting analyses of deep wells!

read more
Dr. Kristine Pankow Named GSA 2025–2026 Distinguished Lecturer

Dr. Kristine Pankow Named GSA 2025–2026 Distinguished Lecturer

Dr. Kristine Pankow of the University of Utah has been named the Geological Society of America’s 2025–2026 Distinguished Lecturer. Her lecture, “Utah FORGE: A Field-Scale Geothermal Laboratory,” will spotlight groundbreaking research at the world’s only dedicated site for advancing Enhanced Geothermal Systems.

read more

Utah FORGE

Advancing innovative technologies to unlock Earth’s limitless geothermal energy.