- The project could produce 300 megawatts of thermal energy annually, reducing CO2 emissions by 800,000 metric tons.
- Vulcan plans to build a lithium extraction plant using adsorption-type direct lithium extraction (A-DLE).
- Seismic surveys to assess geothermal potential are scheduled to begin in early 2025.
Geothermal Energy Exploration
Vulcan and BASF have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore geothermal energy at BASF's Ludwigshafen site. The project aims to harness natural heat from deep geothermal sources to supply renewable energy, potentially meeting base load power requirements. The surrounding urban centers, Frankenthal and Ludwigshafen, are also involved in seismic surveys as a first step.
Potential Impact
The Upper Rhine Graben's geology offers significant geothermal potential. If successful, the project could generate 300 megawatts of thermal energy annually, producing around 4 million metric tons of CO2-free steam. This would prevent approximately 800,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions at BASF's main site.
Lithium Extraction
Vulcan plans to produce sustainable lithium for the battery and automotive industries. The geothermally heated water in the Upper Rhine Graben contains a high concentration of lithium, used in lithium-ion batteries. BASF would use the thermal water to generate steam, and Vulcan would extract lithium using adsorption-type direct lithium extraction (A-DLE). The possibility of building a lithium extraction plant at BASF's site is under consideration.
District Heating and Collaboration
Deep geothermal energy also offers opportunities for district heating, contributing to a successful heat transition at the municipal level. Vulcan and BASF are collaborating with regional energy suppliers to evaluate using geothermal energy for low-emission heating in local households. The project represents a collaborative effort between industry, energy suppliers, and local municipalities to leverage domestic energy resources and reduce dependency on imports.
Next Steps
The next phase involves conducting a seismic survey to investigate geothermal conditions in the Upper Rhine Graben, with Vulcan as the active project developer. Initial exploratory work is scheduled to begin in early 2025.
