Inhaltsbereich
Projects Section 4.1
Enhanced Geothermal Systems of Saxony (Germany)
To implement existing scientific and technical know how in the exploration and development of deep geothermal (petrothermal) resources in Saxony a research alliance was founded in 2009.
DEad Sea Integrated REsearch Project
DESIRE
In the framework of the DESIRE Annex Project „Geothermics“, a thermal study is conducted in southern Israel focusing on pure and applied geothermal issues.
Current Projects of ICGR
Geothermal research power plant Groß Schönebeck
At the in situ research lab Groß Schönebeck all steps of geothermal technology development - from reservoir access to energy conversion in the power plant - are investigated.
Qualification of geothermal technology - integration of subsurface and surface systems
Experiences from existing geothermal plants and projects show that energy provision from deep geothermal reservoirs is feasible in Germany at various locations. However, it is evident that there still exist numerous challenges regarding planning and operation of plants. The next step for further geothermal development, therefore, is to improve the quality and confidence of both the planning process and operation as well as the competitiveness of geothermal installations.
Sustainability
At Groß Schönebeck a geothermal borehole doublet has successfully been hydraulically stimulated, the proof of concept of a sustainable production and injection of thermal waters from deep sedimentary geothermal reservoirs shall exemplary be led.
Longterm-Corrosion investigations and -monitoring in saline thermal waters
The continuous fluid production essential for an economic energy provision can strongly be affected by corrosion. In order to realise both, reliable geothermal plant design and its operation, all potentially occurring corrosion processes must be understood comprehensively.
Development of thermodynamic data for modeling thermodynamic equilibria of processes in deep geothermal reservoirs
Sub-project: Experimental validation of thermodynamic data
This project aims at closing thermodynamic data gaps (Pitzer-parameters) and provides a first step towards selection and application of reactive transport models, applicable to geothermal and particularly to highly saline reservoirs (e.g. in the North-German Basin).
Sustainability concepts for exploitation of geothermal reservoirs in Indonesia – capacity building and methodologies for site deployment
The collaboration in methodology and technology development in combination with a training program will support capacity building in geothermal technologies in Indonesia.
GeoEn
Geothermal Engineering Integrating Mitigation of Induced Seismicity in Reservoirs
GEISER
The project GEISER (Geothermal Engineering Integrated Mitigation of Induced Seismicity in Geothermal Reservoirs), co-funded by the European Commission, is coordinated by the ICGR within the GFZ.
Helmholtz Alberta Initiative (HAI) Geothermal - Geothermal assessment for the Alberta Basin
The project is part of the Helmholtz - Alberta - Initiative between the University of Alberta and the Helmholtz Association. It will investigate the potential of EGS development in the basin and basement of the province of Alberta.
Structural controls on geothermal systems in the Great Basin (Northern Basin and Range Province), Nevada, U.S.A
Underground Thermal Energy Storages: Optimising the integration of Aquifer Energy Storages in the energy supply system for the German Parliament Buildings, Berlin
The supply of electric energy, heat and cold to the German Parliament Buildings is provided by a combination of systems which is unique so far. This is achieved with seasonal heat and cold storage in aquifers. Both Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage Systems have been in operation since 2000.
The geothermal energy potential in Denmark – reservoir properties, temperature distribution, and models for utilization
Geothermal utilization in low-enthalpy settings and determination of thermal rock properties in Denmark; cooperation with the Danish project “The geothermal energy potential in Denmark – reservoir properties, temperature distribution, and models for utilization” at GEUS
Enhancing process understanding of microbial induced corrosion and scaling in geothermal plants by analysis of microbial activity
MiProTherm
Advanced process understanding of engineered geothermal systems is a prerequisite to optimize plant reliability and economy.
Comparative investigations in large scale biogas plants – procedural, microbiological, ecological and economic evaluation and optimization
Optgas
The project aims to optimize the energetic use of biomass and to enhance its sustainability.
Evaluation of supporting measures for renewable energies in the heat market (Marktanreizprogramm)
The Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) "Marktanreizprogramm" program for renewable energies is an essential supporting measure for market penetration of renewable energies in the heat sector.

