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A new study estimates as much as 40% of Bavaria’s energy needs can be supplied by geothermal energy.

A new study from the Technical University of Munich estimates as much as 40% of the region’s energy needs can be supplied by geothermal energy stored deep in the earth.

TechXplore.com recently published a press release detailing the results of the study, commissioned by the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, and executed by Geothermal-Alliance Bavaria, a local research association.

Bavaria, a free state located in the southeastern corner of Germany, is commonly referred to with distinctions between its northern and southern regions. In the report summarizing the study’s findings, researchers indicate high levels of geothermal energy stored up to 5km below the earth’s surface in southern Bavaria.

More exploration is needed to uncover the extent of northern Bavaria’s geothermal potential, capacity that could bump the research group’s estimate of 40% of energy demand even higher. But due to the risks associated with exploratory drilling for traditional geothermal technologies, the experts involved in the study have highlighted the advantages of using long-distance transportation methods from areas with proven geothermal capability.

The report acknowledges ongoing geothermal extraction in the area, citing the existence of 25 operational projects in Bavaria. One such project is the revitalization of a failed traditional geothermal project by Calgary-based green energy company Eavor.

A ground-breaking ceremony for the first-of-its-kind project was held in November 2022, and construction is set to begin in summer next year. Aimed at providing district heating for residents and businesses in surrounding communities, the facility will not be subject to the same risks and limitations of traditional geothermal technologies previously attempted.

The closed-loop, cutting-edge design of the Eavor-Loop™ has been specially crafted to avoid the pitfalls typical of conventional geothermal methods. With a radiator-like well system, established drilling technology, and no need for risk-prone fracking techniques to expand or create underground reservoirs, the Eavor-Loop™ pulls heat directly from the subsurface rock using conduction.

And a recent investment in Eavor by Deep Energy Capital promises expansion of the auspicious pipeline of projects in the European and North American markets, meaning Eavor has the potential to become a household name not only in Bavaria, Germany, but across the globe when it comes to next-generation geothermal heat and power.

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