Risks and Challenges of the Transition to an Integrated Geothermal Concept for the Göttingen University Campus

This study presents the main strategic risks and challenges to be faced during the prospective transition from the existing fossil fuel-based energy system to an integrated „Enhanced Geothermal Systems” -concept, which includes deep, medium, and shallow geothermal energy, for district heating and cooling of the Göttingen university campus (demo site of the EU-HORIZON2020-project MEET). Such an innovative integrated concept aims for lowering the financial risks and maximizing decarbonisation effects. The geological and technical preconditions of the demo site are analyzed, and a basic conceptual scheme is suggested. To overcome the challenges of the implementation of such a complex system, an intensive cooperation between all stakeholders, coherent planning and financing, and a modular, step-by-step approach is a prerequisite.