Transformation of the Energy System in Lower Saxony (TEN.efzn) – Geo-energy systems

With the so-called “North German Basin”, Lower Saxony has ideal geological conditions for the use of geothermal structures as a source and storage of heat. The aim of the joint research project is to establish Lower Saxony as a leading location in this field with national and international visibility. Through close cooperation between leading scientific institutions in Lower Saxony, open research questions that have so far prevented the sustainable and economic use of this geological potential are to be clarified. In addition, cooperation with local energy suppliers will be ensured in order to make the solutions developed practical and to promote the direct transfer of knowledge to the local population.

Geothermal storage facilities (e.g. geothermal probes, aquifers or salt deposits) play a key role in a sustainable energy system. They enable a sustainable heat supply and offer flexibility potential for the entire energy supply. The prerequisite for this is that the stored heat comes from renewable sources. Large-scale solar thermal systems are particularly promising here. They convert solar radiation into heat at low cost and usually feed this into local and district heating networks. Surplus heat can be fed into a geothermal storage facility and reused during periods of low sunshine.

As part of the research project, ISFH is contributing its expertise in the field of large-scale solar thermal systems. Dynamic system simulations are used to analyze various supply concepts that combine geothermal heat storage, solar thermal energy and heat pumps.

The findings will be published in a Lower Saxony potential map. This shows which system configurations are particularly promising for specific locations and thus provides a valuable decision-making basis for science, industry and politics.