Optimizing Production in Enhanced Geothermal Systems Through a Coupled Hydraulic Flow and Heat Transport Discrete Fracture Model

China's substantial hot dry rock geothermal reserves can be better exploited using Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS). Modelling Enhanced Geothermal Systems is a key approach in predicting geothermal energy production and further optimizing the management of geothermal resources. However, exploiting geothermal energy often involves interactions among physical processes such as groundwater flow, heat conduction, and heat convection in fractured porous rocks, which is challenging. Using a discrete fracture model, we simulate the coupled processes of hydraulic flow and heat transport in this study, which is solved using the open-source software OpenGeoSys. The findings reveal that increasing the injection flow rate can achieve higher energy production, but it will also shorten the lifespan of EGS. The lifespan of EGS increases linearly with the well distance. Reducing the injection flow rate can also extend the lifespan. Optimal inter-well distance and injection flow rate were identified through multi-combination simulations. Our findings provide a reference for optimizing parameters in practical EGS applications, offering a more scientific and efficient approach to geothermal energy development.