Meshal Alshalan
Research Engineer
Saudi Aramco
Meshal is a seasoned energy professional with nearly seven years of experience at Saudi Aramco, currently serving as a Research Engineer at the EXPEC Advanced Research Center. He has a strong background in chemical engineering, with a Master of Science degree from MIT. Meshal's work focuses on carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), upstream hydrogen applications, and sustainable innovation. He has a proven track record of leadership, having led various projects and initiatives, including chemical optimization, digital tool development, and industry-sponsored research. Meshal is also a vocal advocate for youth development, global engagement, and climate action, and has received several prestigious awards for his work. He is committed to advancing clean energy technologies, mentoring future leaders, and promoting inclusive leadership and meaningful climate action. Throughout his career, Meshal has demonstrated a deep commitment to sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility, and continues to drive positive change in the energy industry.
Participates in
TECHNICAL PROGRAMME | Energy Technologies
As the global energy transition accelerates, closed-loop geothermal systems are emerging as a promising source of sustainable baseload energy. This study introduces a robust geothermal screening model designed to evaluate the technical and economic viability of closed-loop systems at an early stage, enabling rapid assessment across diverse geological and operational conditions.
Methods, Procedures, Process:
The model integrates reservoir and wellbore thermal dynamics—such as mass flow rate, thermal conductivity, diffusivity, and temperature gradients—with cost components including drilling, operations, and maintenance. Leveraging AI-based simulation techniques, the screening framework estimates heat generation potential and associated lifecycle costs. The model is structured to rapidly process multiple scenarios, incorporating sensitivity to key subsurface and design parameters. This allows for the identification of high-potential configurations and regions suitable for further detailed analysis or field deployment.
Results, Observations, Conclusions:
The screening model effectively distinguishes between viable and non-viable system designs based on performance and economic indicators such as net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), and payback period. Results indicate that geofluid flow rates, temperature gradients, and drilling costs are the most influential parameters affecting system feasibility. The model provides a structured, data-driven approach to prioritize projects and guide decision-making before committing to more resource-intensive optimization or field development.
Novel/Additive Information:
This geothermal screening model offers a scalable and flexible tool for industry stakeholders to evaluate closed-loop geothermal systems in a wide range of settings. By integrating technical performance with economic considerations early in the assessment phase, the model supports faster, more informed decisions that can accelerate the adoption of geothermal energy within the global sustainable energy mix.
Co-author/s:
Ali Alshuwaikhat, Research Engineer, Saudi Aramco.
