- Volcanic Geothermal Systems after being identified and explored (geologically and geophysically) would need to be drilled. First small diameter boreholes, then slimhole exploration wells, then potential larger diameter development wells.
- Each phase of drilling would require Drill Pads which are cleared, levelled, surface prepared, rainwater drainage systems installed, and area sized according to the drilling phase including the relative sizes of the equipment and the necessary support infrastructure.
- Initial shallow borehole drilling (diameters <4in, depths <100m) would require space for the equipment (potentially truck mounted mineral drill rig) to enter the site and be positioned with space for supporting equipment for operators and materials.
- The next phase of drilling could be slimhole wells that could require large mobile truck mounted drill rigs to be supported. A drill pad ~40m x 40m may be suitable to hold the drill rig, Several rig type options exist, but space is needed the rig, pipe racks for casing and tubulars, mud and cementing systems, material storage area, tanks, water pond, core tray, pumps, and power generation. Accommodation support could be outside of the drill pad area in a base camp.
- Where larger development wells are required, a bigger drill pad would be required ~70m x 100m up to 100m x 120m in some cases. This may or may not be large enough for material storage and support infrastructure like an accommodation camp, so additional or separate areas may be required. Considering potential well locations and routing of infield flowlines from drill pads to a potential power generation facility would also be a factor in locating these drill pads.
- In volcanic terrain, these drill pad locations could be on the side of steep ground requiring challenging access routes, vegetation clearance, levelling, drainage systems, and improved ground load capacity. The potential amount of water volume required for drilling and potential drain pit for temporary well fluid discharge (brine, steam) could require significant space.
