Heat from deep groundwater: new potential in the Baar basin

On behalf of the Office for the Environment of the Canton of Zug, GEOTEST AG investigated the heat utilisation potential of deep groundwater in the Baar basin. This groundwater deposit extends over several square kilometres and has stable temperatures and favourable geological conditions – ideal for sustainable energy production.

The study focused on the question of how many well installations – known as doublet systems – can be operated for heat pumps and seasonal heat storage without their effects interfering with each other. With the help of 3D simulations and various utilisation scenarios, it was possible to precisely determine the technically usable potential.

Grundwasserspiegel und Mächtigkeit des tiefen Grundwasservorkommens mit Untersuchungsperimeter.

Groundwater level and thickness of deep groundwater deposits within the study perimeter.

This area of approximately 10 km² features a deep artesian aquifer characterised by constant temperatures and low flow rates, ideal conditions for sustainable energy production.

Beispiel einer thermischen Grundwassermodellierung mit 3D Box-Modell (die Doubletten-Brunnen, bestehend aus Entnahme und Rückgabe, sind in Gelb dargestellt).

Example of thermal groundwater modelling using a 3D box model. The doublet wells (extraction and return) are shown in yellow.

Various energy load profiles (e.g. apartment buildings, offices, commercial premises) were tested using 3D simulations and a special algorithm. The results show that, particularly with balanced usage, the existing potential can be roughly tripled without exceeding the legal limits.

Schematic representation of the calculation of heat storage and recovery for bidirectional ...

...and recirculating utilisation.

The study confirms that the deep groundwater in the Baar basin offers considerable energy potential, which could make an important contribution to the regional heat supply in the future.

Further details on the methodology, modelling and results can be found on the page about the reference project on our website.