Geothermal potential of old potash mine in Hanover, Germany to be investigated

Celle in Lower Saxony, Germany (source: Aleksandr Zykov / flickr, Creative Commons)

Experts from the State Office for Mining, Energy, and Geology (LBEG) are planning to investigate a former Steinförde potash salt mine near Celle in Lower Saxony, Germany as a potential source for geothermal energy. These plans were announced by officials in Hanover.

The mine was shut down in 1925 and had only been sealed with concrete. This means that the 700-meter deep shaft of the mine has not yet been filled and has an opportunity to be rehabilitated. However, the safety of the old system must be checked first, as well as the temperature and salinity of the water. Only then can the agency proceed with a feasibility study for geothermal use.

Geothermal activity has increased in the region of Lower Saxony in the past months. Recently, LBEG had granted a geothermal exploration permit to the North Germany Geothermal Energy Company (NDWEG) covering the towns of Nordhorn and Neuenhaus.

Source: Süddeutsche Zeitung