On Friday, February 24, we completed the 3D seismic survey in Mannheim and the region. The underground survey was used to create a 3D model of the subsurface. The measurements were mainly carried out in the northern districts of Mannheim as well as in Ilvesheim, Ladenburg, Viernheim, Heddesheim, Edingen-Neckarhausen and Hirschberg an der Bergstraße.
The measurements were carried out successfully and according to plan. This was also due to the very good cooperation and close coordination with the city of Mannheim: “Our thanks go in particular to Environmental Mayor Prof. Dr. Diana Pretzell and all the departments of the city of Mannheim involved,” says Vulcan founder Dr. Horst Kreuter. The Karlsruhe-based company was also always in close and trusting contact with the affected communities north of Mannheim. Vulcan also experienced great openness towards the measurements on the part of the citizens: “The discussions with the citizens were very constructive and we had the opportunity to explain the process in detail,” says Thomas Bening, Regional Manager for the Kurpfalz and southern Hesse.

In the run-up to the event, Vulcan had already informed the public about the seismic survey through numerous measures – including information events, advertisements in official gazettes and other print media, radio spots, Facebook ads, roadshows, flyers about the seismic survey and information leaflets on geophones, press releases, press interviews and via the information office in Mannheim as well as the Natürlich Kurpfalz website, where Vulcan published the current measurement areas on a daily basis.
The geophones were collected again. Experts then evaluated the data obtained. The data is used to plan geothermal projects that will help the city of Mannheim to become a climate-neutral EU model city by 2030. Vulcan also wants to use geothermal energy to produce CO2-neutral lithium for the local automotive industry. Initial analyses of the data are expected to be available in fall 2023.