The Reutilization of a Small Coal Mine as a Mine thermal Energy Storage

Abstract

The aim of the German HEATSTORE sub-project is to create a technically and fully functional seasonal mine thermal energy storage pilot plant for the energetic reutilization of a small coal mine, with the emphasis on a two year operating and monitoring phase during the project lifetime. The generated data can be exploited for the implementation and dissemination of future deep geothermal storage systems. The conceptual idea is based on the storage of seasonal unutilized surplus heat during the summer from solar thermal collectors within the mine layout and to use the stored heat during the winter for heating purposes of the institute buildings of the International Geothermal Centre (GZB). This pilot plant aims at utilizing an abandoned small coal mine, which is directly located under the premises of the International Geothermal Centre (GZB) in Bochum, as a seasonal mine thermal energy storage. This area also includes the drilling and test facility site of the GZB, on which the Bo.REX (Bochum Research and Exploration Drilling Rig) is currently located. This leads the way of a very cost effective exploration of the flooded small coal mine in a depth of approx. 75 m below ground. The injection and production well and the additional monitoring wells will be drilled with GZB's own drilling rig.