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German University Studies GSHP Cost Reduction Adapted from a Press Release by Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Geologists at one of the largest universities in Germany, FAU (Friedrich-Alexander-Universität) are studying how to reduce construction and operation costs of geothermal systems. As part of a four-year international project, they are working with 15 European partners to test new drilling technologies to improve geothermal systems. The EU (European Union) has provided funding for the research aimed at making sure geothermal energy remains a marketable alternative source of heat energy for private households. Making use of geothermal energy is not a new concept - the Romans used hot springs in their baths back in Antiquity (the period before the Middle Ages). Since then, the technology for using geothermal energy has advanced significantly. Using ground source heat pumps (GSHP) and drilled wells, modern homes can be heated and cooled using clean, renewable geothermal energy. Dr. David Bertermann and Johannes Müller from Geozentrum Nordbayern at FAU are now investigating how the construction and operating costs of these shallow geothermal systems can be reduced. “One of the ways in which we would like to reduce costs is by developing new drilling technologies. Our task is to stay above a depth of [160 feet], which would reduce the costs considerably,” said Dr. Bertermann, who is re- sponsible for the part of the project focused on developing probe and drilling technologies. Soil conditions are another crucial factor influencing the cost of installation and how efficiently a system operates. In light of this, researchers are collecting data on soil conditions for the EU-funded Cheap-GSHP project. This includes information on the drillability and conductivity of the soil, both of which vary greatly depending on the type of rock. Higher drillability means it is easier and less expensive to drill the required boreholes. The depth of the holes depends on the conductivity of the soil - higher conductivity means a shallower depth is required. This data, collected from all over Europe, will be compiled in a map and made publicly available. FAU researchers will test new drilling technologies, as well as modified heat exchange systems in Eltersdorf near Erlangen to determine whether they are able to reduce the costs and increase the productivity of geothermal systems as planned. Dr. David Bertermann 42 JUNE 2016 WorldWide Drilling Resource ®