Fraunhofer Research Institution for Energy Infrastructures and Geotechnologies IEG
Fraunhofer Research Institution for Energy Infrastructures and Geotechnologies IEG

ZuDe - ZukunftsDialog Energie: Deep geothermal energy as a catalyst for structural change

The energy transition in the Rhineland mining region is part of structural change and, thus, of a comprehensive process of social transformation. The “ZukunftsDialog Energie” project, led by Ruhr University Bochum and Fraunhofer IEG, supports the “Reallabor Geothermie Rheinland” initiative from a social science perspective and investigates issues related to the acceptance of geothermal projects in the region. The goal of this accompanying research is to spark a societal discourse, to investigate the attitudes of the general public, local governments, and businesses, and to understand how these attitudes are formed. As part of the accompanying project, several events are planned to share knowledge about deep geothermal energy and its role in the heating transition and to develop future perspectives together with the public. Recommendations for project sponsors and municipalities regarding future infrastructure projects will be derived from the findings of the accompanying research.

The project will provide additional scientific insights and practical concepts. These will not only increase the effectiveness and efficiency of implementation but also strengthen the socially sustainable nature of structural change in the Rhineland mining region.

Project Objectives

  1. The focus is on the design and ongoing evaluation of the Fraunhofer “Rhineland Geothermal Real-World Laboratory,” as well as new approaches to participatory public engagement and stakeholder involvement. As a key supporting partner, Fraunhofer IEG assists with the evaluation, the provision of stakeholder information, and the integration of the regional stakeholder community.
  2. Planning and implementation of additional, appropriate communication measures and workshops—including those with regional companies—by Fraunhofer IEG
  3. Development of two innovative participatory formats (Citizens’ Council and Future Council). Fraunhofer IEG provides technical support for these innovative formats and aligns them with the implementation phases of the real-world laboratory. The provision of technical expertise rounds out Fraunhofer IEG’s responsibilities.
  4. The results of the reference process for the Rhineland mining region will be compiled and transferred into a digital toolbox. The teaching materials will supplement those created as part of the real-world lab. Fraunhofer IEG supports the development of teaching formats and best-practice examples with its expertise and ensures technical complementarity.
Zwei Personen stehen in einer Fußgängerzone unter einem Pavillon des Fraunhofer IEG mit der Aufschrift „Wir gestalten die klimaneutralen Energiesysteme der Zukunft“. Sie betrachten Ausstellungstafeln zum Thema Geothermie. Auf einem Tisch liegen Informationsmaterialien und ein Modellfahrzeug. Im Hintergrund sind weitere Pavillons, Passanten sowie die Fassade eines Geschäfts zu sehen. Die Szene zeigt eine öffentliche Informations- und Dialogveranstaltung im Stadtzentrum.
© Fraunhofer IEG
Kosta Schinarakis from the Science Communication department at Fraunhofer IEG (on the right in the photo) talking with a prospective client.
Supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy on the basis of a decision by the German Bundestag