Resource assessment for deep sedimentary and basement reservoirs

Overview

Funding for advanced research and development to improve resource assessment methods for deep sedimentary and basement geothermal reservoirs, targeting developers, researchers, and consortia aiming to enhance geothermal energy exploration and sustainability.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities (e.g., research institutions, universities, SMEs, public bodies, and industry partners) from eligible countries. Projects must include contributions from social sciences and humanities (SSH) disciplines to address societal and environmental impacts.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €40,000,000
• Funding type: Lump sum
• Funding rate: Not specified (standard Horizon Europe rules apply)
• Co-funding: Not explicitly required but may be necessary depending on project scope

What Is Funded

• Development of advanced methods, technologies, and conceptual models for geothermal resource assessment in low-permeability reservoirs at depths of 2,000–6,000 meters.
• Research on reservoir properties (e.g., in-situ stress, temperature, geo-mechanical, and chemical characteristics) and their impact on stimulation techniques, well designs, and completion technologies.
• Validation of solutions using decision and risk analysis methods.
• Assessment of environmental and social impacts, including biodiversity, water balance, pollution, land use, noise, induced seismicity, and community engagement.
• Potential co-production of raw materials alongside geothermal energy.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 4–6 (validation in lab to prototype demonstration in relevant environment).

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-08-03
• Deadline: 2026-11-30T23:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the Horizon Europe Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Proposals must adhere to page limits and formatting guidelines outlined in the call documentation.

Post-Award Obligations

• Reporting on project progress, outcomes, and dissemination of results.
• Compliance with Horizon Europe’s lump sum funding rules and financial reporting requirements.
• Engagement with local communities and stakeholders to ensure transparency and address societal concerns.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland.
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Projects must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS data if satellite-based earth observation or positioning services are employed.
• Inclusive societal engagement is mandatory, with early and continuous involvement of local communities.
• Proposals must demonstrate contributions to sustainability, circularity, and EU resilience in clean energy technologies.