PotAMMO

Despite the promising prospects of Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) for seasonal heat transfer, such as storing surplus heat in summer for use during the winter months, there is a lack of in-depth studies on specific ATES potentials in many regions. In light of this, the joint project PotAMMO aims to analyze the potential for integrating ATES into local district heating networks in the regions of Mannheim and Offenbach. A multi-criteria approach will be applied, considering geological, hydrogeological, technical, regulatory, climatic, and economic factors.

The project is structured into four work packages (WP). In the first work package, the current and future heat demand, network structures, and heat source potentials (such as waste heat and cooling capacities) in the model regions Mannheim and Offenbach will be assessed. Additionally, the geological and hydrogeological potential for aquifer storage will be investigated, with a focus on identifying suitable storage horizons and locations. This package also includes the development of geothermal exploration methods and the creation of scenarios for the expansion of the district heating network.

WP2 will focus on the thermodynamic characterization of ATES and its integration into existing district heating systems through numerical modelling of the storage horizons and network infrastructures. A central aspect of this package is the development of interfaces for model coupling as well as simplified ATES models for parameter studies and optimization runs.

The project is structured into four work packages (WP). In the first work package, the current and future heat demand, network structures, and heat source potentials (such as waste heat and cooling capacities) in the model regions Mannheim and Offenbach will be assessed. Additionally, the geological and hydrogeological potential for aquifer storage will be investigated, with a focus on identifying suitable storage horizons and locations. This package also includes the development of geothermal exploration methods and the creation of scenarios for the expansion of the district heating network.

WP2 will focus on the thermodynamic characterization of ATES and its integration into existing district heating systems through numerical modelling of the storage horizons and network infrastructures. A central aspect of this package is the development of interfaces for model coupling as well as simplified ATES models for parameter studies and optimization runs.

The third work package centers on developing methods for ecological and economic evaluation. These methods will include the creation of life cycle inventories for ATES systems, taking into account energy, raw material, and operational resource consumption, as well as associated emissions. Additionally, the economic feasibility of ATES systems will be determined by calculating investment and operating costs.

The final work package will involve a comprehensive system optimization and evaluation. This will include determining design and operational parameters that allow for the optimal integration of ATES systems into existing and planned network infrastructures. Systematic optimization runs will also identify the processes with the greatest impact on costs and greenhouse gas potential. Furthermore, technical risks will be assessed, including their likelihood and impact. By the end of the project, robust methods and recommendations for identifying and evaluating ATES potentials will be provided, which can be applied to other regions.

Further Information

• Funding period: From 01.08.2022 – 30.11.2025
• Grant Authorities: BMWK
• Project partners: GFZ 4.8, EVO, MVV