Applied Geoscience and Renewable Energy (Research Group)

     I.        Name of Research Group (RG): Applied Geoscience and Renewable Energy

Objective:
To advance innovative research and geoscience and renewable energy solutions by integrating advanced technologies, data-driven approaches, and sustainable practices. The group aims to:

1. Explore and optimize subsurface resources for sustainable energy applications, including geothermal, and carbon sequestration.
2. Foster interdisciplinary collaboration to bridge the gap between geoscience, engineering, and renewable energy sectors, addressing global energy challenges.
3. To perform conventional and unconventional reservoir characterization in exploring hydrocarbon-bearing formations.
4. To perform geochemical and petrophysical analyses to assess unconventional plays.
5. Enhance understanding of earth processes to mitigate geohazards and improve earth resource efficiency.

    II.        Rationale for Formation: 

1.     Energy Crisis in Pakistan: 

The energy crisis in Pakistan is a multifaceted challenge, stemming from a combination of structural inefficiencies, limited resources, and growing demand. Below is an overview of the key issues and potential solutions:

Key Issues Contributing to the Energy Crisis:

1. Energy Demand and Supply Gap:

Rapid population growth and industrialization have significantly increased energy demand, while energy production has not kept pace.

     2. Dependence on Fossil Fuels:

Pakistan relies heavily on imported fossil fuels, such as oil, gas, and coal, which are subject to price volatility and contribute to a high import bill.

3. Limited Renewable Energy Utilization:

Despite abundant solar, wind, geothermal, and hydropower potential, renewable energy accounts for a small fraction of the energy mix.

4. Geopolitical and Economic Challenges:

Dependence on imported fuels makes Pakistan vulnerable to geopolitical tensions and global market fluctuations.

2.    Global Trends in Renewable Energy: 

The convergence of applied geoscience and renewable energy is driving innovation to address global energy challenges sustainably. Here are key trends shaping these fields:

Geothermal Energy Exploration:

• Advances in geophysics and remote sensing techniques enable detailed mapping of geothermal reservoirs.
• Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) are gaining traction, allowing heat extraction from unconventional geothermal resources.
• Subsurface storage of CO₂ is expanding, with geoscientists playing a pivotal role in identifying and monitoring storage sites.

3.    Localized Solutions: 

Localized solutions in applied geoscience and renewable energy are essential for addressing regional energy needs in a sustainable and context-specific way. By integrating scientific knowledge of local resources, infrastructure, and environmental conditions, communities can implement energy solutions that are economically viable, environmentally sound, and socially accepted. 

4.    Capacity Building: 

Establishing a research group will foster collaboration among academia, industry, and policymakers, enhancing technical expertise and capacity in Pakistan’s energy sector. 

  III.        Organizational Structure

  IV.        Areas of Research: 

1.    Geothermal and Subsurface Energy: 

 Developing technologies to enhance geothermal energy extraction from areas that are not naturally hydrothermal, focusing on heat extraction efficiency and sustainability.

2.    Carbon Management and Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS):

Research into innovative technologies that use captured CO₂ for enhanced oil recovery (EOR), industrial processes, or conversion into useful products (e.g., fuels, chemicals).

3.    Conventional and Unconventional Energy Resources

Research into innovative technologies that use to investigate conventional and unconventional energy resources.

4.    Seismic Imaging and Interpretation: 

Developing techniques to improve the resolution and accuracy of seismic surveys for locating and mapping oil and gas reservoirs.

5.    Reservoir Characterization:  

Using geological and geophysical data to assess hydrocarbon reservoirs' size, composition, and potential yield. 

6.    Seismic Hazard and Earthquake Studies: 

Seismic Hazard Mapping: Developing models for seismic activity to assess the risk of earthquakes in a given region and understand the potential impact on infrastructure and populations.

Landslide Risk Mapping: Using geophysical surveys (e.g., ground-penetrating radar) and remote sensing to assess slope stability and predict landslide risks. 

7.    Geo-statistics in Hydrogeology: 

 Using statistical and geostatistical methods to analyze spatial variability in groundwater systems, including spatial distribution of hydraulic properties and contamination. 

Groundwater Depletion and Over-extraction Risks:

Assessing the risks of groundwater depletion due to excessive extraction, especially in regions with high population growth or heavy reliance on groundwater for irrigation.

   V.        Name, Designation, and Department of Group Head

Dr. Muhsan Ehsan, Senior Associate Professor E&ES, H-11 Campus

Number of foreign researchers 5

  VI.        Reporting and Collaboration Procedures: 

1.    Internal Reporting: 

   - Monthly progress reports from each sub-group (aligned with research areas). 

   - Quarterly meetings to discuss milestones and challenges. 

2.    Publications and Dissemination: 

   - Publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at international conferences. 

3.    Collaboration: 

   - Partnerships with local universities, international research institutions, and industry stakeholders. 

4.    Annual Review: 

   - A comprehensive annual report summarizing achievements, ongoing projects, and future plans.

Group Members

International Researchers

Internal Researchers