ABSTRACT

The western Anatolian region is considered to be one of the most tectonically active, rapidly deforming, and extending areas in the world (Bozkurt 2001; Dewey and Sengor 1979; Jackson and McKenzie 1984; S¸engör et al. 1985; Seyitog˘lu and Scott 1992) (Fig. 14.1). The region is rich with geothermal potential. Systematic geothermal exploration of the region began in 1960s. Medium-and high-temperature fields in and around Izmir city (Fig. 14.1) have been identified. There are a number of district heating systems, greenhouses, and spa complexes commercially utilizing geothermal energy in the region.