The Mannheim region plays a key role in the climate-friendly heat and raw material supply of the future. Vulcan is planning to harness geothermal energy here—similar to its project in Landau—and to extract climate-neutral lithium for batteries. This project not only contributes to the energy transition but also strengthens the region as a business location. But where exactly can drilling take place to access geothermal energy?

To utilize the natural heat from the deep underground, specific geological conditions are required—as well as very concrete drilling locations at the surface. The geothermal energy lies several kilometers below ground, in what are known as geothermal reservoirs.

Responsible site selection

The answer lies in a multi-stage, data-driven selection process that considers many factors—geology, spatial planning, nature and water conservation (such as protecting the field hamster), distance from residential areas, contaminated sites, archaeological heritage, and other subsurface restrictions. Proximity to existing infrastructure such as roads, railways, power lines, gas pipelines, or potential connection points to the MVV’s district heating network is also taken into account. All sites have also been cross-checked with relevant protected areas to identify and avoid potential conflicts of use as early as possible.

Geology as the starting point

The basis for site selection is modern geological research (geophysical exploration, such as seismic surveys), which helps identify suitable geothermal structures deep underground. Search zones have been defined within a radius of around one kilometer around these geological target structures. Within these zones, Vulcan closely examines which available plots are suitable for drilling—always balancing environmental protection, spatial planning, and technical feasibility.

Collaboration with municipalities and landowners

A project of this size only works through dialogue: Vulcan is in close communication with the cities and towns in the region, the district administrator of the Rhein-Neckar district, the city of Mannheim, and MVV. Ongoing talks are also taking place with private and public landowners. The goal is to incorporate local specifics, existing plans, and open questions into the site selection process from an early stage. This enables well-informed decisions and helps prepare the permitting process effectively.

What happens next

The next planning steps are currently being prepared. These include discussions with authorities, initial risk assessments, and the planning of drilling site infrastructure, drilling operations, and environmental monitoring systems. The future network connection—such as to the district heating system or to potential sites for lithium extraction—is also being considered from the outset. This planning is being done in close coordination with MVV and other partners.

With this structured and responsible approach, Vulcan is laying the foundation for a pioneering project at the heart of the Rhine-Neckar metropolitan region.