Eneco and Shell secure geothermal exploration in Rotterdam, Netherlands
View over the Port of Rotterdam, Netherlands (source: flickr/ John Morgan, creative commons)
Alexander Richter
13 Feb 2021
Energy company Eneco and oil company Shell have secured a geothermal exploration license to explore the potential for geothermal development in the region of Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Dutch energy company Eneco and oil major Shell have announced new steps into mapping the geothermal potential in the subsurface of the Rotterdam region in the Netherlands.
We previously reported about plans by Shell to develop a geothermal project in the region.
The Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy has now issued a permit for research into geothermal energy in Capelle aan den IJssel, Rotterdam, Lansingerland, Krimpen aan den IJssel and Zuidplas, as reported by Eneco in a release on February 12, 2021. Geothermal energy as a source can contribute to the further sustainability of heating networks. It is a promising option to heat more homes and buildings in this region without natural gas.
In the coming years, Eneco and Shell will work together to map the potential for geothermal energy underground. Agreements are made with potential buyers of geothermal energy. The technology and costs are being worked out in more detail and possible locations for drilling are being sought in consultation with the surrounding area and what they might look like.
Parallel to this, municipalities can implement their heating strategy and make choices for collective heating facilities in their neighborhoods. Eneco and Shell can then further develop concrete geothermal locations and tap into heat sources. It is still unknown when this will happen; at least not in the coming years.
Source: Company release
