Fraunhofer Research Institution for Energy Infrastructures and Geothermal Systems IEGSecure and baseload-capable renewable energy sources are crucial for achieving global climate goals. In this context, deep geothermal energy plays a central role as it can provide heat and electricity independent of weather conditions. The goal of Siegfried is to identify and address the main reasons that hinder the growth of the geothermal sector. Particular focus is on the long timeframes for investment returns and the high economic risks posed by induced earthquakes. By developing dynamic models of the underground, changes in earthquake velocity will be analyzed to optimize site selection and reduce earthquake risk. The methods developed will be demonstrated in the Lower Rhine Basin, where economically viable geothermal reservoirs are suspected. The aim is to evaluate the long-term stability of deep geothermal systems and minimize investment risks.
Project Objectives:
The project has the overarching goal of promoting the use of deep geothermal energy by minimizing earthquake risks. Three specific objectives are defined: First, the development of a dynamic model of the underground that considers changes in the stress field and enables more accurate site selection. Second, deriving minimal stress thresholds that can lead to earthquake reactions to investigate the long-term stability of fluid circulations. Finally, a spatially resolved earthquake risk index will be developed to provide a simple assessment of earthquake risks in the utilization of deep geothermal energy. Through these measures, the investment security in the geothermal sector will be increased and the acceptance of this renewable energy source strengthened.
