The Geothermal Rssources in the Region of Guelma (Algeria)

The region of Guelma presents a great interest in geothermal exploration. The hydro geological study shows an interesting existence of carbonate Mesozoic aquifers, in some place at the age of Cretaceous – Eocene. It is characterized by a diffuse superficial thermal. The thermal events of Hammam-Meskhoutine, Ben Hachani and Bou hadjar, as well as their very high temperatures (surface temperature measured between 60 and 96 ° C) and temperatures of hot springs calculated by chemical geothermometers are about: -120 ° C for the region of Hammam-Meskhoutine; -110 ° C for the region of Ben Hachani, and -120 ° C for the region of Bou Hadjar. The hot water chemistry is similar to that of surface water. The results obtained suggest promising prospects for geothermal research in Guelma. According to the availability of geothermal resources in the region, it would be interesting to consider the implementation of a mini-pilot geothermal power plant of 3 MGw for electricity needs in this picturesque region of Algeria.