Neotectonics of Turkey and its geothermal implication

Abstract

Favourable conditions for geothermal energy were created in Turkey during its neotectonic episode from Neogene to Quaternary. This episode is characterized mainly by fluvio-lacustrine sedimentation and strike-slip tectonics with associated magmatism. Under these conditions, a great number of geothermal areas have formed in the neotectonic provinces in association with major tectonic features, including the North and East Anatolian Fault Zones (NAFZ and EAFZ, respectively). Today, the geothermal resources of Turkey are mainly located in the West Anatolian Extensional Province associated with the graben systems. However, the Central Anatolian Ova Neotectonic Province is considered as one of the most promising geothermal targets which are characterized by the presence of widespread hot dry rock systems. This study mainly aims to throw light on the possible potentiality of these resources at Kırşehir Block by emphasizing the neotectonic evolution of the country.