Comparative analysis and evaluation of the geothermal system potential to recover thermal resources of closed mines in Ukraine

This research analyzes the geothermal systems applied in closed mines around the world in terms of the prospects for applying this experience in the postmining areas of Ukraine. Hydrogeological, geotechnical, and geothermal factors are studied for the Donetsk coal basin, where most of the country's closed mines are located. We have developed energy and cost criteria for assessing the efficiency of open geothermal systems by comparing the recovered thermal energy with the required energy consumption; this approach has been tested in several mines, taking into account the potential demand for heat of local consumers as well as its seasonal fluctuations.