Identifying and interpreting underground conditions in Southern European countries for thermal storage through Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage systems

Solutions developed

The ATES-SEUM project, supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) programme, addresses the challenges of Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) systems for heating and cooling in Southern European Union Member (SEUM) states. It focuses on overcoming issues like groundwater fluctuations, climate change, and complex regulations by developing a comprehensive methodology to assess ATES system potential. Collaborating with Delft University of Technology and the Spanish Geological and Mining Institute, with additional input from Italy and Greece, the project aims to create suitability maps and assess the impact of climate change on groundwater. This initiative seeks to enhance ATES system efficiency, support renewable energy adoption, and align with EU sustainability goals and the Water Framework Directive by improving knowledge and influencing energy policies in SEUM countries.

Main results

The ATES-SEUM project has made significant strides in improving Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) systems for Southern European Union Member (SEUM) states. Key results include the development of a standardized methodology for evaluating ATES potential, addressing challenges such as groundwater fluctuations and climate change. The project, in collaboration with Delft University of Technology and the Spanish Geological and Mining Institute, has generated detailed suitability maps and assessed climate change impacts on groundwater resources. This research provides valuable insights for optimizing ATES systems, promoting renewable energy solutions, and informing energy policies and regulations in SEUM countries, aligning with EU sustainability and water management objectives.