Geretsried: Hot energy from the ground – Bavaria is breaking new ground!

Geretsried: Hot energy from the ground – Bavaria is breaking new ground!

A groundbreaking pilot project for the use of geothermal energy has begun in Geretsried, south of Munich. While geothermal energy is traditionally aimed at extracting thermal water, this is the first time that hot rock has been drilled for. This innovative approach is being pursued by the Canadian company Eavor and could revolutionize the future of energy production. The plant is expected to deliver energy as early as next year, which could position Bavaria as a pioneer in sustainable energy supply. Loud Focus A closed pipe system is used that uses hot rock as a source for energy production. Special drilling techniques are used to establish circuits deep within the earth in which a mixture of water and sealant circulates to be transported to the surface.

High expectations of technology

The drilling work, which is being carried out by a team led by senior engineer Daniel Mölk, has already reached depths of over 6,200 meters. Mölk, who brings experience from Iceland, is confident that the technology can achieve dramatic results with a closed tube system that works in a CO2-neutral manner. In an interview with Bavarian Radio Mölk explained that this is similar to a large heat exchanger that uses the heat from the rock to generate electricity. Critics initially expressed doubts about its feasibility, but three tubes with a total length of 54 kilometers have now been completed. It is expected that the system can heat many households in Geretsried and thus contribute to a sustainable energy future.