English - SCAN aardwarmte

SCAN scouts the subsurface for geothermal heath

We need to move towards more sustainable ways to meet our energy needs. Geothermal energy is sustainable and, because it is not dependent on weather or seasonal conditions, it is also reliable. It will play an important role in the Dutch energy transition where we are looking for new, sustainable, resources to replace our current fossil fuels. The Dutch horticulture sector has successfully been using geothermal energy to heat their greenhouses for over a decade. Geothermal energy can also be used to heat homes, offices and other buildings.

In order to accelerate the development of geothermal energy projects, the Dutch government has initiated the SCAN research program. The purpose of SCAN is to complete the map of the Dutch subsurface. By openly sharing the research data SCAN will help support future determination of geothermal potential.

Seismic research takes place.

The SCAN research program

The SCAN program started in 2018. The program encompasses different areas. First, seismic surveys are carried out in the areas where there was no, or insufficient, data about the subsurface. Second, a large volume of vintage data from extraction and exploration projects that have been carried out since the 1950’s, was reprocessed using modern advanced computing technology. Third, SCAN executed eight research drillings. These data wells will be used to confirm and supplement the data collected through existing and new seismic surveys. The data collected from the data-wells will help gain an even better understanding of the subsurface. During the research drillings, reservoir properties such as permeability, porosity and temperature where tested. Fourth, additional seismic surveys are (or will be) carried out in the areas where more data about the subsurface is needed.

Research well in De Bilt.

Sharing data

All research results are published on the open access website nlog.nl. Organizations, such as project developers, municipalities and others can download and make use of these data. SCAN does not interpret these data nor advise on geothermal potential. All openly available data will first need to be interpreted by experts. To initiate a geothermal project more local research is always required.