The Geothermal Information System GeotIS

Abstract

The Leibniz Institute for Applied Geophysics (LIAG) runs GeotIS, an internet-based information system on geothermal resources in Germany. The user-interface of GeotIS is available in English and German and can be accessed free of charge with a standard web browser. The development of the system was accom-plished in close collaboration with partners from 2006 to 2009. Since then, the LIAG has been continuously maintaining and improving the system. GeotIS shows the potentials and the installations of deep geothermal use in Germany. It consists of two independent mod-ules: The module Geothermal Potentials offers a compila-tion of data and information about deep aquifers in Germany for possible geothermal use. Extent, depth and temperature of relevant geologic formations are presented for those regions of Germany most relevant to geothermal exploration. Surface and subsurface temperatures are provided where a sufficient amount of data is given. Both, temperature and geologic data have been compiled to state-of-the-art 3D-models to improve our understanding of subsurface conditions. Maps of formation permeability are available as part of the information system for many regions of geo-thermal interest. Furthermore, data such as the loca-tions of wells or seismic profiles can be displayed. The module Geothermal Installations provides an overview of geothermal power plants, heating stations and spas in Germany that are in operation or under construction. For each installation, details such as in-stalled capacity or mean power production are pro-vided. From 2011 on, energy statistics are presented on an annual basis. GeotIS has become an advanced tool for the site as-sessment and the planning of geothermal installations in Germany. Basically, it is a digital, almost scale-independent and always up-to-date version of a geo-thermal atlas. Current knowledge and most recent re-sults are provided and can be visualised in a conven-ient manner. Despite the amount of incorporated data, GeotIS cannot replace local feasibility studies.