Emmering, Germany approves exploration for geothermal resources

Emmering in Bavaria, Germany (source: Sharon Hahn Darlin / flickr, Creative Commons)

Geothermal initiatives in the State of Bavaria in Germany continue with the approval of the local council of the municipality of Emmering to search for geothermal resources for heating. Joining Emmering for this project are three other partners – the municipalities of Maisach and Fürstenfeldbruck, as well as local utility Stadtwerke Fürstenfeldbruck.

Seismic studies are still being planned to determine exactly where drilling will take place. However, Christian Wiegner from the Stadtwerke indicated that geothermal resources in the region are expected at a depth of around 1800 meters at temperature of 75 °C. This will be sufficient to heat old buildings, although some rehabilitation of the insulation and heating infrastructure may be necessary.

The initial cost for the exploration work is estimated at EUR 500,000. After some negotiation, the four parties decided to split the cost equally at EUR 125,00 apiece, regardless of the population of each municipality.

Geothermal studies are already ongoing in the municipalities close to Emmering. These include Olching, Puchheim, and Germering.

Source: Merkur.de