Keywords: underground heat storage, ATES and BTES systems, (A-)DTS, (E-)TRT, optical fibres, hydrogeological parameters.

 

Education of the Young Researcher:
2019: Bachelor of Engineering in Geology University of Zagreb. Thermal properties of bedrock from the Neogene period in the area of the Eastern Drava Depression

2022: Master in Geology. University of Zagreb. Title of Thesis: Soil gas measurements for the purpose of determining migration route in Banovina and on the north-eastern slopes of Krndija

Content:

As part of my doctoral research, I am studying the influence of hydrogeological and geothermal factors on the potential for underground heat storage, with a particular focus on ATES (Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage) and BTES (Borehole Thermal Energy Storage) systems. My research explores the use of optical fibers for continuous geothermal measurements, such as DTS (Distributed Temperature Sensing) and A-DTS (A-DTS (Advanced Distributed Temperature Sensing), with the aim of developing a methodology to assess heat storage capacity under different geological and hydrogeological conditions. Additionally, I focus on the advanced interpretation of TRT (Thermal Response Test) and E-TRT (Enhanced Thermal Response Test) methods to evaluate the thermal properties of aquifers, enabling a more precise understanding of their energy storage potential. My study covers geologically diverse areas in Slovenia, offering various hydrogeological characteristics and geothermal conditions relevant for assessing the efficiency of these energy storage systems. 

My research emphasizes the analysis of data obtained through advanced sensors and numerical simulations, which help define boundary conditions and simulate heat transfer in the subsurface. I am developing methods to assess the geothermal potential for heat storage, focusing on the impact of hydrogeological parameters such as permeability, porosity, and aquifer structure, as well as the efficiency and sustainability of these energy storage systems. 

The goal of my research is to contribute to a better understanding of the role of hydrogeological and geothermal factors in the design and optimization of underground heat storage systems, particularly through the use of advanced temperature monitoring methods such as DTS, A-DTS, TRT, and E-TRT, along with numerical models for predicting system behaviour under real-world conditions. By doing so, I aim to enhance the utilization of geothermal resources and improve the efficiency of renewable energy storage.

Selected Bibliography:

Borko, Karlo, Mihael Brenčič, Zdenko Savšek, Jure Knez, Aleš Vozelj, Gregor Kisel, and Nina Rman. 2025. "Insights into Aquifer and Borehole Thermal Energy Storage Systems for Slovenia's Energy Transition" Energies 18, no. 5: 1019. https://doi.org/10.3390/en18051019