Low Temperature Deep Geothermal Operations for Direct Use in France: Development of a National Geothermal Database and Last Review

Abstract

As part of a better monitoring of low temperature (30-150 °C) deep geothermal operations for heat production in France and in order to promote this form of renewable energy throughout the national territory, BRGM (French Geological Survey) in collaboration with ADEME (French Environment and Energy Management Agency) have implemented an application (web-based geothermal database) to follow-up detailed information on geothermal operations. Initially the database was defined to collect and disseminate geothermal data of the “Dogger” aquifer exploitations of the Paris basin, first sustainable aquifer used for district heating in France. Since 2018, the database has been extended to all deep geothermal operations in France for direct use (i.e. Paris basin, Aquitaine basin, Rhine Graben, South East basin, Limagne) and counts about 220 geothermal wells with 135 wells still operating. The objective of this “national” database is to provide valuable information to project developers who need accurate data during feasibility studies and regulation and permitting processes. It also targets local authorities and private or public stakeholders to provide them information about current operations, resources and potential applications for heating. Moreover, the system is also promoting the use of geothermal energy as part of the objectives of the law on Energy Transition and Green Growth, which sets a target of 38% of renewable energy sources in final heat consumption by 2030 in France. The article gives also a review of low temperature geothermal operations in France.