Join Now

Geothermal Energy

BVEG/DGMK Guideline: Economic assessment of geological risks of deep geothermal projects

Objective of the guide

In terms of content, the guideline provides a standardized and generally applicable methodology for dealing with geological uncertainties in hydrothermal and petrothermal energy production. The aim is to provide a transparent, transferable and reusable guide for assessing and quantifying the geological probability of success and variability.

Such a geological assessment procedure is essential for the responsible and economical use of investment and extraction funds. The quantification of the geological probability of success is the necessary basis for or against investment decisions. In addition, the assessment procedure enables a comprehensible forecast of the range of possible geological scenarios and their probability of occurrence. Only on this basis can underground and surface planning be properly carried out and the associated costs realistically estimated.

The guideline describes a generally applicable assessment process. The technical and geological methods to be used may vary depending on the specific geological conditions.

The guidelines primarily relate to individual projects, but can also be applied to a portfolio approach with several projects. 

The guidelines were developed in close cooperation between the DGMK and the BVEG. We would like to thank the diverse team of authors, consisting of representatives of relevant stakeholder groups such as geothermal operators, municipal utilities, insurers, service providers and oil and gas companies. 

A supplementary guide to the drilling risk management is currently undergoing the public consultation process.

Copyright
2025
Language
German / English
Number of Pages
21