Investigating Ultra Deep Geothermal (UDG) in The Netherlands

AmsterdamPG is currently doing research to map the potential of Ultra Deep Geothermal Energy in the Netherlands. Compared to conventional deep geothermal, UDG  is looking for much higher temperatures starting from 150 °C. The existing geothermal plants are not built for such high temperatures, which are nevertheless necessary for some industrial applications (paper factories, zinc melting) and for the production of electricity.

Greater depths
In The Netherlands the average geothermal gradient is 30 °C per kilometer. The temperatures required for UDG are found in reservoirs starting from 4 to 5 kilometers below the surface. A promising reservoir at these depths is the Lower Carboniferous limestone formation, which is considered to be the reservoir with the highest potential for UDG.

Lower Carboniferous
In our studies we focus on the Lower Carboniferous: how to recognize the seismic properties of the formation, where and at what depths it is situated and its specific reservoir properties. To understand the geometry of the Lower Carboniferous, the structures are mapped in 3D. The figure shows a carbonate platform at a depth of 4 to 5 kilometers. For the application of UDG  we will study similar structures to learn whether they are suitable and identify the main chances and risks.

More information
A UDG plant allows you to provide sustainable heat in cases where conventional deep geothermal energy is not sufficient. For more information about this new and promising technology, please contact us!