Exploring Geothermal Energy in Lower Lusatia: Brandenburg's New Endeavor
In an exciting development for sustainable energy, Brandenburg's Ministry of Economics has announced plans to explore the potential of geothermal energy in the Niederlausitz region. The project, aimed at moving towards a CO2-free heating supply and energy transition goals, will commence preliminary exploration in July 2023.
The State Office for Mining, Geology and Raw Materials (LBGR) has been commissioned to carry out the work, which will involve testing the area between Cottbus and Guben for possible water-bearing, hot layers. The route for the exploration includes northeastern Cottbus, Peitz, Tauern, Baerenklau, Schenkendöbern, Guben, and south to Gross Gastrose.
According to the ministry, there is an inexhaustible heat reservoir at depths of up to 1,000 meters, with temperatures around 40 degrees Celsius. This reservoir could potentially provide a renewable source of heat and electricity with low CO2 emissions. Every additional 100 meters makes it 3 degrees Celsius warmer within the heat reservoir.
Economics Minister Daniel Keller (SPD) stated that the results will be crucial for municipalities planning with geothermal energy. The ministry has provided three million euros in funding for the project, which is expected to present to local residents at public information events in autumn 2025.
Geothermal projects typically involve detailed geological surveys and drilling to assess heat extraction potential from underground reservoirs. If successful, this project could boost local energy independence, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and foster economic revitalization through new green jobs and technology development in the Niederlausitz region.
While there are no direct search results specifically detailing a geothermal energy exploration project in Brandenburg's Niederlausitz region, it's worth noting that Lusatia, which includes parts of Brandenburg and Saxony, is undergoing various innovative energy and circular economy projects. For example, from 2027, a research center focusing on circular economy technologies will be established in Lusatia, aiming to develop new sustainable technologies.
For precise and updated information on geothermal energy exploration in Brandenburg's Niederlausitz, local government press releases, energy authorities, or dedicated project websites would be the best sources to consult. If you would like, I can help you monitor for future announcements or provide context on geothermal energy technologies in Germany.
- This geothermal energy exploration project in Brandenburg's Niederlausitz region, initiated by the Ministry of Economics, aims to tap into a renewable source of heat and electricity with low CO2 emissions.
- The LBGR has been tasked with conducting the project, which includes testing for possible hot, water-bearing layers around Cottbus, Peitz, Tauern, Baerenklau, Schenkendöbern, Guben, and Gross Gastrose.
- According to the ministry, the heat reservoir, which could be up to 1,000 meters deep with temperatures around 40 degrees Celsius, could potentially boost local energy independence and foster economic revitalization through green jobs and technology development.
- The ministry has earmarked three million euros for the project and expects to present the results to local residents at public information events in autumn 2025, with geothermal projects often involving detailed geological surveys and drilling.