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GeotIS

Geothermal Information System

The objective of this project is the preparation and compilation of geological, geophysical and hydraulic data that are most relevant for planning geothermal direct use facilities in Germany. The project focuses on areas and formations with geothermal potential that could be characterized in more detail or that are not yet covered by the national geothermal information system GeotIS. The results will include new structural 3D-models and estimates of the hydraulic conductivities of geothermal reservoirs. Favorable reservoir properties in sedimentary systems may be related to divisional surfaces like for instance joints, faults or unconformities. For this reason divisional surfaces will also be considered in this research project. In order to identify the geologic conditions that may change the hydraulic conductivity in the vicinity of divisional surfaces over geologic times, a model will be set up as a tool to improve the assessment of geothermal potentials. Furthermore, an interactive E-Learning portal will be set up that will allow users to gain more knowledge on geothermal energy use in Germany. It is also planned to continue the international collaboration within the framework of the geothermal implementing agreement of the IEA.

Project history:

GeoFaces (2016-2019)

In addition to the preparation and evaluation of geological, geophysical and hydraulic data on deep aquifers, this project ("Characterization of Geothermal Resources in Due Consideration of Boundary Layers and Joint Faces") focuses on boundary layers and joint faces. Boundary layers mark changes in sedimentary environments, e. g. the transition from erosion to deposition. They may result in conclusions about subjacent reservoirs. Joint faces are fissures and cleavages of rock bodies that affect the permeability as well as the geochemical evolution of reservoirs. Furthermore, new structural 3D models will be created and implemented in the geothermal information system GeotIS. With the development of an interactive e-learning portal this project will turn over a new leaf in geothermal education. GeoFaces is funded by the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs.

reference number: 0324025A

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StörTief (2013-2016)

Deep reaching faults gain in importance in geothermal exploration in Germany. Fault zones have emerged as prominent drilling targets for the exploitation of hydrothermal resources in the pursuit for higher production rates (e. g. in the Upper Rhine Graben and the Molasse Basin). This is the rational ground why fault zones were attributed and linked with a scientific literature data base in the project "The Role of Deep Reaching Fault Zones for Geothermal Energy Utilization" which was funded by the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs. In addition, two new structural 3D models were created and the structural model "GeoPower" of Schleswig-Holstein was implemented in the geothermal information system GeotIS.

reference number: 0325623A

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Geothermieatlas (2010-2013)

In its coalition agreement of the 17th legislature, the Federal Government of Germany has decided to commission a geothermal atlas to view potential competition between CO2 storage and deep geothermal energy. The utilization potentials for both options were presented together on four maps on a scale of 1: 1,000,000. Hydrothermal and petrothermal systems were evaluated individually according to their geothermal potential and future availability. In addition, information on deep reaching fault systems were compiled in a national survey. However, further criteria should be taken into account for a comparative evaluation of the two options and a possible designation of preferential areas. Detailed feasibility studies are also required in individual cases. The maps have been integrated into GeotIS and are available for download.

reference number: 0327542A

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GeotIS II (2009-2013)

The geothermal information system GeotIS was extended in the project "Internet Based Information Centre for Geothermal Energy Usage", which was funded by the Federal Ministry for the Environment and Nuclear Safety. In the course of this project available data stocks for hydrothermal resources in Germany were retrieved, extended and connected to data bases. 3D structural models were extended and completed. A 3D model of Hesse was included, showing the geothermal potential of the northern part of the Upper Rhine Graben. The 3D temperature models were expanded to cover all of Germany.

reference number: 0327542A

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GeotIS (2006-2009)

The office for the assessment of technology consequences of the German parliament suggested the compilation of an atlas of geothermal resources (TAB, 2003). As a result, the Federal Ministry for the Environment and Nuclear Safety funded the project "Setup of a Geothermal Information System for Germany" (GeotIS) from 2006 to 2009 which focused on deep aquifers in the eastern part of the North German Basin, the Upper Rhine Graben and the Molasse Basin in the south of Germany. Even in this initial phase, two structural 3D models and two 3D temperature models were built.

reference number: 0327542