Secure capacities now and tap the full potential of deep geothermal energy

 

Deep geothermal energy is our specialty: As a general contractor, we support companies, industry, states, cities and municipalities on their way to using geothermal energy as a renewable energy source. Our experts are at your side at all times - from project planning with the application for subsidies to finance the individual project steps to site investigation, drilling and plant construction. Get in touch now and secure the necessary capacities!

 

Deep geothermal energy - all services from your general contractor

From project planning and site investigation to drilling and plant commissioning - as your general contractor, DMT provides all services related to deep geothermal energy from a single source. Benefit from our know-how, hands-on mentality and solution orientation during all project phases. Geothermal projects for tapping and utilizing geothermal energy have been part of DMT's service portfolio for over 25 years. Along the entire process chain, you can rely on our solutions for site exploration and subsidy management (e.g. BEW subsidy), minimizing drilling risks, increasing safety, and boosting the productivity and profitability of your geothermal project.

Potential, possibilities and challenges: Dr. Boris Dombrowski, Deputy Head of Geo-Energy & Resources, on deep geothermal energy

Our expertise for your geothermal project

Deep Geothermal - Project Phase 1: Project Planning

DMT offers comprehensive support for the successful launch of your deep geothermal project. Together, we determine the basic principles and regulations for selecting a suitable site and evaluate all technical options as well as market conditions. On this basis, we work out a benefit and risk structure for you, including a detailed profitability calculation. All this data is incorporated into a comprehensive project structure plan, which sets out the subsequent phases of your geothermal project. We also organize early public participation to ensure a transparent flow of information. In this way, we ensure that your geothermal project is aligned in the best possible way in terms of costs, technical implementation and social acceptance.

In addition, we support you in obtaining all necessary permits and approvals as well as the environmental impact assessment and in applying for subsidies to finance your geothermal project, such as the federal subsidy for efficient heating networks (BEW subsidy).

Deep Geothermal - Project Phase 2: Site Investigation (Seismics and Drilling)

As a leading company in subsurface exploration and deep geothermal utilization, comprehensive site analyses are part of our standard services. From the planning and execution of 2D and 3D seismic measurements and their evaluation to subsurface modeling, simulation and bore path planning, DMT is at your side.

If our experts conclude from this comprehensive geophysical exploration that a site is suitable for deep geothermal energy and that drilling can be carried out with a high probability of success, DMT will gladly take over the implementation. Determination and construction of the drilling site and bore path planning are necessary preparatory steps for complex deep drilling. Planning, execution and monitoring of the drilling as well as borehole measurements and seismological monitoring are part of the services we offer.

Deep Geothermal - Project Phase 3: Contruction

After the successful site investigation, we accompany you through the final steps towards your geothermal heating plant. DMT draws up operating plans, handles building and plant planning and the subsequent plant engineering. Thanks to our expertise, your geothermal plant will be connected to the grid on schedule so that the first sustainably produced kilowatt hours can flow after commissioning.

Rely on DMT as an experienced partner for the planning and implementation of your deep geothermal project. Contact us today to learn more about our services and to secure the appropriate capacities, especially for seismic site exploration.

Well positioned for the energy transition thanks to deep geothermal energy 

Clean and sustainable - this is what the energy supply of the future looks like. With the demand for climate-friendly, renewable energy, the focus is on the huge potential of inexhaustible geothermal energy, directly beneath our feet. At depths of around 3,000 meters and more, thermal waters are so hot that there is no need for a heat pump and therefore no additional electricity.

Deep geothermal energy can supply more than 25% of the required heat energy in Germany and thus make an important contribution to achieving climate targets. A move away from fossil-based energy generation simply cannot be achieved without the expansion of renewable, climate-friendly energies such as deep geothermal energy.

For further reading: articles on deep geothermal energy

Our specialists are happy to help - Please get in touch

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Geothermal energy - climate-friendly heat supply for industry, cities and municipalities

 

The economic advantages and price stability of deep geothermal energy, which far outstrip fossil energies, make geothermal energy attractive not only for municipal heating networks. Surrounding residential areas can also be converted to a sustainable heat supply quickly and cost-effectively - meeting both economic and climate-friendly goals.

Industry can easily obtain and use process temperatures of up to 700 °C from geothermal energy with the appropriate technology. Higher temperatures up to 1,200 °C are also already feasible with existing systems, technically more complex but with promising results. In addition, heat can be supplied to larger agricultural operations to efficiently heat stables or greenhouses. The wood industry also benefits from the lower cost of deep geothermal energy and faster drying of its products.

Want to know what using geothermal energy can do for your business or community?

 

The political course is set for the promotion of geothermal energy

According to the German Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action and its key issue paper fifty percent of heat in Germany is to be generated in a climate-neutral manner by 2030.

Politicians are committed to creating the conditions for the expansion of geothermal energy and to accelerating the relevant procedures. Comprehensive subsidy programs such as the federal subsidy for efficient heating networks (BEW) are important steps on the way to a climate-neutral future in which heat is generated by geothermal energy. It would also be sensible and desirable to have legal risk mitigation, e.g. in the form of an exploration risk insurance policy, to provide financial security for the geothermal projects of cities and municipalities.

The political will expressed in this way makes deep geothermal energy one of the most important building blocks for improving the competitiveness of municipalities and companies in the long term and for leading Germany as an industrial location into a secure, climate-friendly future.

Financial subsidies for deep geothermal energy

Various support programs provide an incentive to invest in renewable energies. Of course, this also applies to deep geothermal projects, which benefit from this support in terms of financing. For example, the federal subsidy for efficient heating networks (BEW), which came into force on September 15, 2022, and promotes the construction of new heating networks as well as the decarbonization of existing district heating networks. But regional subsidies, such as the progres.nrw program, also provide funds to promote geothermal energy.

The subsidies also take effect in the early phases of the projects, not only when drilling is carried out.

Funding is available for:

  • Feasibility studies and transformation plans
  • Seismic measurements
  • Construction measures and drillings
  • Various individual measures and much more

The amount of funding often varies and for some project phases is up to 50% of eligible expenses.

DMT's experts will support you in finding the right funding program for your deep geothermal project, in compiling all the application documents and in submitting the application to the relevant funding agency.

Contact us now and benefit from our expert advice and experience in managing funding.

The future of deep geothermal energy

Technologically, the potential of geothermal energy is far from exhausted. For example, various deep geothermal energy techniques are currently being used in Germany, such as classic deep boreholes that use the deep rock with the water circulating in it as doublets or triplets to generate heat and/or electricity. In addition, deep geothermal probes are used for direct heat generation, as well as various combinations of both methods. But also the subsequent use of old mining pits or mine waters for geothermal applications is under investigation.

In conclusion, there is still a lot of untapped potential that can be further researched and exploited to advance geothermal energy as a sustainable heat source.

Our geothermal service portfolio

DMT stands for expertise and high-quality services - also in the field of geothermal energy. With over 100 years of experience in the exploration of raw materials, we support our clients in the search for and evaluation of geothermal deposits and exploit all technical possibilities to meet individual client requirements. Our goal is always to provide our clients with access to the latest and most efficient technologies in order to make projects more economical and safer.

Our interdisciplinary team, with its high level of technical expertise and state-of-the-art equipment, has been internationally active in the field of deep geothermal energy for many years. As a result, our customers can rely on a diverse range of services related to deep geothermal energy.

Project planning of geothermal energy utilization

In order to assess the fundamental suitability of a geothermal project, various issues must be carefully considered in advance. A well-founded basic evaluation is followed by analyses of the existing situation, potential, benefits, risks and profitability. Project planning and effective subsidy management are the decisive building blocks for laying a solid foundation for your geothermal project.

    Feasibility

    • Basic evaluation of regulations, location, technology, market
    • Inventory analysis (on communal level as well as for quarters and/or single buildings)
    • Potential analysis (of all renewable energies)
    • Benefit and risk structure (on communal level as well as for quarters and/or individual buildings)
    • Targets and milestones
    • Heat transition strategies
    • Profitability calculations
    • Project planning for follow-up phases
    • Information and participation of the public and all relevant stakeholders
    • Press relations and social media
    • Implementation planning and support
    • Redevelopment planning
    • Funding management (BEW, KfW, KFKG and regional funding programs of the federal states, e.g. progress.NRW)
    • Workshops to establish a comprehensive information base and common understanding among all stakeholders

    Project Management

    DMT provides support for all planning, geoscientific, drilling and construction services. This allows you to react flexibly to changing conditions which require quick responsiveness as well as adaptability within the framework of budget and scheduling. The integrated cooperation of all participants ensures that synergies are fully exploited. Economic efficiency and safety are always at the centre of attention.

    Construction project management

    • Assessment of geological requirements
    • Feasibility analyses
    • Risk assessment
    • Optimisation of work interfaces
    • Design and implementation planning for all project phases
    • Concept, budget and time planning

    Coordination under planning law

    • Checks in accordance with standards and regulations
    • Preparation of tender documents
    • Checking of providers
    • Support in contract negotiations and contract drafting

    Drilling and construction supervision in addition to site management

    • Supervision of services and construction work
    • Coordination of trades
    • Tendering, awarding, deadline control, accounting
    • Performance acceptance and quality assurance
    • Contract and claim management
    • Additional work processing

    Site investigation for a geothermal project

    Detailed site exploration is the basis for further action and is one of our central business areas. Economically decisive advantages can already be achieved during exploration. Precise planning, thorough exploration, and interdisciplinary data evaluation and geological interpretation are the foundations for successful projects in the geothermal sector.

    The careful planning, execution and monitoring of the subsequent drilling operations up to the final production of thermal water for the heating plant are among our core competencies.

    Seismic surveys

    Seismic structural exploration, proven in oil and gas exploration among others, combined with state-of-the-art computer-aided interpretation, determines the best site, optimizes drilling planning and thus makes your projects more successful and safer.

    • Operational plan, environmental impact and species protection assessment, explosive ordnance detection
    • Survey design study for optimal planning of a seismic survey
    • (Pre)permitting, obtaining permits
    • 2D, 3D, 4D reflection seismics (cable-connected and wireless)
    • Refraction seismics (also for determining the static corrections/weathering layer, “low velocity layer”)
    • Vibration seismics (also slip sweep), conventional excitation
    • Shallow water seismics (transition zone)
    • Vertical seismic profiling (VSP)
    • Combination of the versions presented above, e.g. vibration seismics, wireless and cable-connected on land and in shallow water with infill and airgun excitation
    • Reclamation, removal of potential damage

    Data processing

    A significant step in the processing of 2D/3D seismic data is processing. DMT's experienced specialists can provide you with optimum solutions and meaningful results.

    • Seismic 2D-/3D-/4D-Processing
    • Optimal static corrections
    • Full-waveform inversion (FWI)
    • Multiple elimination
    • Post stack time migration
    • Reprocessing of legacy data
    • Pre-stack time migration
    • Pre-stack deep migration
    • CRS – Common Reflection Surface Stack
    • AVO – Amplitude Versus Offset
    • Further special data processing for optimal interpretation, e.g. Shearwater Reveal, Landmark ProMAX/SeisSpace, OpenGeophysical, OpenCPS, Tsunami Development, Paradigm GeoDepth/ EarthStudy 360, CGGVeritas, Hampson-Russell
    • Evaluations of other geophysical methods (gravimetry, magnetotellurics, etc.)

    Geological interpretation and modeling

    Many years of experience in the interpretation and modeling of geological and geophysical data characterize our interdisciplinary team. In combination with state-of-the-art software, reliable results are delivered as a basis for decision-making for further project development - the basic requirement for any geothermal project.

    • Interpretation of 2D, 3D and 4D seismic data
    • Integration and interpretation of further geophysical measurements (e.g. gravimetry, magnetotellurics)
    • Integration of geophysical borehole measurements
    • Facies analysis and spatial modeling
    • Attribute analysis on 3D seismic data sets
    • Time/depth conversion
    • 3D structural models for complex tectonic settings
    • Disturbance characterisation
    • Stress field analysis
    • Creation of block models and spatial distributions of reservoir parameters
    • Consultation for borepath planning & creation of preliminary profiles
    • Evaluation and adjustment of existing models during drilling operations
    • Review of seismic and geological evaluation of third parties (2nd opinion)

    Hydrogeology and reservoir simulation

    In order to use a geothermal plant efficiently in the long term, detailed knowledge of the reservoir properties is essential. Based on geological modeling, different usage scenarios can be simulated to gain knowledge about heat exchange, cooling behavior or flow properties.

    • Numerical groundwater models
    • Geothermal use of mine water
    • Numerical mine water models
    • Geothermal simulation
    • Fissure flow models
    • Mass transport and reactive mass transport
    • Heat transport
    • Multiphase flows

    Drilling site, drilling planning, drilling and monitoring

    A drilling site for injection and production wells requires precise technical planning. We are experienced in all detailed planning and take care of securing the necessary permits. 

    • Selection of the drilling site
    • Detailed planning
    • Subsoil investigation
    • Statics of the drilling site
    • Permit rights and procedures
    • Explosive ordnance detection
    • Construction supervision

    Drilling planning is crucial for the successful sinking of deep boreholes. This involves optimizing the drilling paths, selecting the appropriate drilling rig, and dimensioning the casing. But the preparation of time and cost schedules, the preparation of the drilling tender and the drilling itself are also tasks that DMT can handle professionally for you.

    • Drilling planning and design
    • Preparation of tender documents
    • Support in evaluating the bids 
    • Permitting rights and procedures
    • Detailed planning of borehole measurements and tests
    • Drilling
    • Drilling monitoring

    Seismological monitoring

    Safety is paramount in any geothermal project. Under the three keywords measurement, preservation of evidence and assessment, DMT offers a comprehensive range of seismological monitoring services including measurement, assessment and expert opinions.

    • Preservation of evidence by publicly appointed experts from the DMT measuring station in accordance with BImSchG
    • Operation of state-of-the-art vibration measurement systems in accordance with international standards
    • Planning, setup and operation of local seismological measurement networks
    • Safe data storage on in-house TÜV database clusters
    • Implementation of extensive early warning and alarm functions
    • Implementation of traffic light systems for project control
    • Support at information events and in setting up websites to provide transparent information to authorities and the public

    Borehole measurements

    Borehole logging in geothermal wells is challenging due to high temperatures and unique lithologies. In particular, geological fault and fracture systems of hydrothermal reservoir rocks play an important role in the planning and design of heating plant equipment. DMT has the necessary tools and expert know-how.
    Measurement equipment and services at a glance:

    • High temperature probes (up to 175°C)
    • Measurements in deep boreholes (6000 m+)
    • Probes for large borehole diameters (up to 43") 
    • Acquisition of geothermal parameters / temperature profiles
    • Acquisition of geomechanical parameters
    • Reservoir characterization 
    • Facies, structure and lithology analysis
    • Mineralogy acquisition
    • Geomechanics & stress analysis
    • Well integrity

    Construction of a geothermal heating plant

    To make a geothermal project a success, seamless process progress is essential. Especially in the transition from exploration to drilling and further from production to heating plant technology, you can rely on our expertise.

    Plant planning and design

    DMT also provides technical expertise in plant engineering. DMT is your reliable partner right through to the commissioning of your deep geothermal heating plant.
    Plant engineering services at a glance:

    • Project management & project development
    • Concept studies
    • Grant applications
    • Approval procedures
    • Cross-trade construction and equipment planning (process, piping and steel structure, EI&C technology, concrete construction, building) across all project phases
    • Construction management for equipment erection
    • Metrology
    • Mains connection
    • Initial startup
    • Maintenance

    The best reference: our clients & partners

    DMT has already served around 60 clients in the field of geothermal energy in recent years. As a general contractor, we carry out projects for municipal utilities, energy companies and firms of all sizes from a wide range of sectors and trades. We work regularly and confidentially with many players and companies that have been developing and promoting geothermal energy for a long time, such as RWE, E.ON or SWM (Stadtwerke München).

    Here we present a few selected projects that demonstrate our expertise in different project phases and tasks, e.g. our seismic site investigations over an area of almost 1,500 square kilometres in the Vienna region for OMV/Wien Energie and in the Upper Rhine Graben for GeoHardt. In addition, there is a potential analysis for the geothermal use of mine water as well as projects on borehole measurements and seismological monitoring in Mol, Belgium, and much more. Feel free to contact us if you would like to learn more.

    Customer testimonials to DMT's expertise in the geothermal sector

     

    "We have been working with DMT in the field of geothermal exploration for almost 10 years. We appreciate not only their unquestionable professional competence, but also their often pragmatic and unbureaucratic support with interdisciplinary topics as well as their flexibility with time-critical requirements." - Dr. Robert Straubinger, Managing Director, Enex Power Germany GmbH

     

    "Collaboration with DMT has become established in numerous areas and has proven itself many times over, as our competencies, especially in the field of deep geothermal energy, complement each other very well. DMT is a reliable partner for whom the solution for the end customer is paramount." - Dr. R. Kahnt, Member of the Executive Board and Head of Department, G.E.O.S. Ingenieurgesellschaft mbH

     

    Rely on our experience for your geothermal project

    DMT - Member of strong geothermal networks

    DMT is a member of the world's second largest geothermal association, Bundesverband Geothermie e.V., through which we are integrated into national and international networks such as the International Geothermal Association (IGA), the European Geothermal Energy Council (EGEC) and the Bundesverband Erneuerbare Energien (BEE).

    Furthermore, we are represented in the Geothermal Energy Expert Committee of GDBM, whose aim is to promote further development of this form of energy. The regular committee meetings are attended by project developers and operators, universities, engineering companies, suppliers and authorities. The focus is on the use of warm water from former mines as well as on deep geothermal energy, i.e. the collection of ground heat by means of borehole mining.

    Since 2017 DMT has also been a partner in Greentech.Ruhr, a network of innovative companies, research and educational institutions and various public institutions in the environmental sector. The Greentech.Ruhr project is an initiative of Business Metropole Ruhr GmbH, whose aim is to promote the Ruhr Metropolis worldwide as the leading area for the development and provision of environmental services and solutions.

    DMT is committed to finding clean, sustainable solutions for the future!

    DGE-ROLLOUT (EU INTERREG)

    DMT is partner in the EU INTERREG programme DGE-Rollout (Deep Geothermal Energy Rollout) in North-West Europe.

    The DGE-ROLLOUT Project target is to facilitate the uptake of low carbon technologies, products, processes and services in sectors with high energy saving potential, to reduce GHG emissions in NWE.

    Within this Project, DMT provides exploration and engineering support for deep geothermal energy usage, is the first information source for stakeholders & investors and ensures transparency of geothermal energy usage to the public.

    DMT activities are:

    • Underground Heatflow simulation: DMT provides underground heat flow models to reduce drilling risk, to plan drill paths and to optimize parameters of hot water processing plants.
    • Geological Atlas of the Ruhr Area: DMT supports the Geological Service of North-Rhine Westphalia to produce a Geological Atlas, to reduce the drilling risk in the Ruhr Area. Exploration data from coal mining will be made accessible and usable.
    • Seismological Data Center in the Bergbau-Museum Bochum: DMT, together with GZB, will set-up a seismic monitoring network to provide automatic real-time observation of seismological data. It will provide real-time location and event assessment and make induced seismicity transparent to the public.
    • Exploration Support: DMT advises stakeholders concerning underground exploration of geothermal resources.

    The European Union promotes "European territorial cooperation" through its structural and investment policies. Its INTERREG programme provides a framework to develop innovative project ideas and to deliver concrete new results. It  supports transnational cooperation between national, regional and local partners. North-West Europe is one of the six programme areas. 
    More information on INTERREG North-West Europe
     

    QHSE Management – Safeguarding your Project

    Within DMT's QHSE management system, a committed leadership and clear distribution of roles and responsilities are supplemented by thorough evaluation and risk management. The result is a minimized risk of accidents and work-related illnesses. Furthermore, our teams are highly professional and operate in an environmentally responsible manner, thus minimizing environmental pollution and damage.

    Our QHSE management system is based on the highest international standards:

    • ISO 9001 - Quality Management
    • ISO 14001 - Environmental Management
    • OHSAS 18001 - Occupational Health and Safety Management

    Plus we follow guidelines form industry-specific bodies such as:

    • OGP - International Association of Oil & Gas Producers, London, UK and Houston, USA
    • IAGC - International Association of Geophysical Contractors, Houston, USA