GeoSchwamm: New German research project combining geothermal energy and water infiltration

On 1 July 2026, the three-year BMWE-funded project GeoSchwamm officially started. The project aims to improve the efficiency of shallow geothermal energy systems by combining them with water infiltration systems, addressing both the energy transition and climate adaptation challenges in urban areas.
The concept builds on the fact that moist soils have a higher thermal extraction capacity than dry soils, thanks to their improved thermal conductivity and heat storage properties. By increasing soil moisture through infiltration systems, geothermal installations can become more efficient, reducing both space requirements and installation costs.

The project includes the design and construction of a pilot and demonstration plant, alongside modelling studies and optimisation of materials and system design. By combining simulation and practical testing under different site conditions, the consortium aims to develop solutions that can be readily transferred to real-world applications. EIFER’s contribution focuses on the holistic evaluation of trench collectors at pilot and field scale.