We are unlocking the hidden heat beneath Kaiserslautern!
With our exploration of the geothermal potential beneath Kaiserslautern, we are working towards the goal of decarbonizing our district heating supply.
Geothermal energy is a regional, economical, and sustainable source for the large quantities of heat required in the future.
Pfälzer Wärme is therefore exploring the medium and deep underground to locate water-bearing rock formations. In a second step, these could be accessed with the help of hydrothermal geothermal energy and used for the domestic heat supply of future generations.
Our vision
Beneath the Palatinate lies a gigantic untapped source of heat. We want to tap into this domestic energy source for you. Our goal is to convert the city’s district heating supply to an energy source that is independent of the weather and fuel imports, ensuring stable prices. To make this happen, we have secured two exploration areas in order to keep the reins of action in our own hands and not be dependent on external project developers. Geothermal energy is available around the clock and offers safe, environmentally friendly alternative to fossil energy sources.
It is up to us to tap into this valuable source beneath our feet and supply you with geothermally generated district heating by 2027. In doing so, we are using a technology that has been tried and tested for many years and is already being used successfully for district heating at over 100 locations in Central Europe. Even the Romans understood the power of geothermal energy, using it to their famous thermal baths. We plan to explore this potential for you over the next few months and then probably begin drilling - as the company Wipotec has done successfully in Kaiserslautern for many years. This project will secure jobs, strengthen our local economy and ensure long-term independence.
Time schedule
We will be active in Kaiserslautern in the coming years! In addition to seismic exploration, data evaluation, detailed planning - including the search for a drilling pad. If the results are promising, we’ll move forward with drilling.
Exploration areas
Stadtwerke Kaiserslautern, in the interests of municipal services of general interest, has secured the two exploration areas, “Lutrina” and “Kasimir”. Geothermal energy and lithium can now be explored over an area of more than 290 km2. Starting with the “Lutrina” field, where a 3D seismic exploration is planned to assess the underground potential.
Geology of Kaiserslautern
The geology of Kaiserslautern is characterized by the Bundsandstein formations of the Palatinate Forest, as well as the Saar-Nahe Basin and the associated Pfälzer Mulde. Here, the Rotliegend, a reddish sandstone layer, reaches depths relevant for geothermal use, i.e. high temperatures that can be used for district heating supply.
3D seismic exploration
Seismic exploration can be used to create an image of the subsurface revealing different rock layers, layer boundaries, and fracture zones. While 2D seismic only provides a linear insight, 3D seismic can be used to create a three-dimensional image.
Financing
Geothermal projects are characterized by high initial investments and cost-effective operation, as there are no fuel costs. Seismic exploration and, especially, the first borehole require an initial investment. If the borehole is successful, i.e. if water is detected in sufficient quantity and flow rate as well as a correspondingly high temperature, this key milestone has been overcome.