GeoLaB

What is GeoLaB?

GeoLaB is a research project on the future use of geothermal energy to ensure a secure energy supply. A particularly large amount of this heat lies in deep underground in hot, crystalline rock. GeoLaB aims to explore in an underground research laboratory how this heat source can be sustainably tapped and used to heat homes and apartments in the future. You can find out more about the project, its goals and the people behind it here. Research at GeoLaB is presented here.

The GeoLaB project is divided into several project phases: with the decision on geological sutiability made, the site exploration phase is completed, followed by the planning and approval phase. This is followed by tunnel construction and a test operation phase, before the actual research operation is planned.

The results of the site exploration phase confirm that the Odenwald, or more precisely the Tromm Massif, is particularly suitable for exploring the use of crystalline rock for geothermal energy. Here, the rock is close to the surface. This would make it easier to observe the processes that take place deep underground when geothermal energy is used in a future research laboratory. Read more about the site selection here.