Subsurface energy and decarbonisation

BRGM explores, assesses and exploits subsurface potential as an energy resource (geothermal energy) and as a space for storage (energy carriers, CO2) and confinement.

At a glance

Establishing the subsurface as a key asset for accelerating decarbonisation and increasing energy autonomy

The energy transition implies a shift towards less centralised and more varied renewable and low-carbon energy sources. In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, achieving carbon neutrality will require capturing and storing CO₂.

The challenge is to come up with low-carbon energy solutions that make the best use of the subsurface, including geothermal energy and underground storage, in order to incorporate these solutions into the energy systems of the future. The objective is to implement cost-effective solutions on specific sites or at local and regional levels to ensure that underground space is used sustainably and with minimal impact on the environment.

BRGM is exploring the potential of the subsurface as an energy resource (geothermal energy,H₂) and as a storage and containment area (energy carriers,CO₂, etc.). It is also involved in the development of integrated energy systems and in monitoring, assessing and managing the performance and risks of the proposed solutions.

A "discussion diagram" used for planning eco-neighbourhoods and showing potential points of entry for geothermal heat (2011).

Strategic challenges

Using the subsurface for the energy transition and decarbonisation

To successfully achieve the energy transition and the gradual shift from an energy system based on fossil fuels to low-carbon energies, France is leveraging three key areas of action: reducing energy consumption, relaunching the development of nuclear power and accelerating the development of renewable energies. Today, the energy transition strategy includes developing the energy potential of the subsurface, whether for energy production (geothermal energy) or as a site for underground storage (CO₂, hydrogen, etc.).

However, using the subsurface to support the energy transition is far from having the unanimous backing of civil society, which still remembers the environmental impact of past mining operations or operations carried out in other countries without taking the requisite precautions. The socio-economic dimension of potential subsurface uses therefore plays an important role in the multi-disciplinary research conducted by BRGM into these issues.

In addition to mitigating the effects of climate change, this transition will also help France to reduce its dependence on other countries to meet its current needs in terms of fossil fuels.

View of the Vendenheim deep geothermal site in Alsace.

Ambition

Demonstrate that the subsurface is an essential asset for a successful energy transition

BRGM's goal is to establish the subsurface as a key asset in the energy transition and decarbonisation strategy, due to its energy resources and storage capacities.

BRGM is contributing to the emergence and consolidation of solutions that could be implemented in a sustainable manner, either on specific sites or at regional level, while taking into account the environmental, economic and societal impacts.

To achieve this objective, it draws on its multi-disciplinary skills (geology, hydrogeology, geochemistry, thermal dynamics, digital technologies, human and social sciences, etc.). These wide-ranging competences are used to conduct experiments in its laboratories and on its technological platforms, and create models of the subsurface and digital geoscience tools.

BRGM's added value

Scientific and technical expertise in exploiting the properties of the subsurface, from determining its potential as a source of low-carbon energy (geothermal energy, natural hydrogen) or as a space for storing gas and energy (heat and cold), to assessing the safety of different types of subsurface uses, including its integration in energy systems and ecological transition plans.
Multi-disciplinary teams (geologists, geophysicists, geochemists, chemists, energy specialists, human and social scientists, IT and digital specialists, etc.) capable of designing subsurface technical solutions for different energy transition systems.
Wide scope of action, combining fieldwork, experimental platforms and laboratories.
Dual scientific position as an advisor for public authorities at national and regional level and as a developer of innovations for companies.

What kind of partnership initiatives?

Estimating the potential of the subsurface in relation to the needs of the energy transition and decarbonisation strategy

Explore, understand and model the subsurface to promote its industrial uses and reduce uncertainties about resources, while speeding up decision-making.

Optimising and integrating energy systems and new uses

Encourage the hybrid use of subsurface and surface technologies to make energy systems more resilient and reduce CAPEX.
Deploy innovative subsurface technologies on a regional level to promote synergies between industry and local authorities.

Assessing the impact, monitoring and ensuring the safety of underground energy uses

Identify, analyse, assess and deal with risks in order to reassure stakeholders (citizens, public authorities) about the deployment of an industrial activity.
Monitor the use of the subsurface using innovative techniques.