Gemini

Overview

GEMINI, Geothermal Energy Momentum on the Island of Ireland, is a cross-border geothermal energy demonstration project. The Grangegorman campus will host the first deep (about 2 kilometres) geothermal drilling demonstration on the island of Ireland. The exploration well will provide valuable data on the geothermal energy potential of carbonate rock, the most common geological formation across the island. Currently, limited information on deep carbonate reservoirs makes it difficult to predict water flow rates, which are a key factor in determining the cost and effectiveness of geothermal heat supply. Data collected from the borehole will help GEMINI scientists and engineers better understand and predict flow rates in areas with similar geology, supporting future geothermal development.

The project will also enable GEMINI to develop best-practice guidelines for deep geothermal drilling in urban environments, covering technical, operational and planning considerations. In addition, the site will serve as a living laboratory for engineering and sustainability programmes, helping to build the skilled workforce needed to support the growth of the geothermal sector.

If the demonstration successfully proves the viability of deep geothermal energy as a heat source in this area, the data, knowledge and experience gained could support the Grangegorman Development Agency (GDA) and Dublin City Council (DCC) in expanding the network and supplying sustainable heat to additional buildings and users. The Grangegorman campus is particularly well suited to this opportunity, as its mixed-demand district heating network would allow a geothermal heat source to be integrated efficiently into the existing energy infrastructure.

To learn more about what Geothermal Energy is and how its used see the videos below:

GEMINI partners involved in onsite activities at Grangegorman are: Geological Survey Ireland (providing technical support and advice); and associated partners DCC and GDA; Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (geophysical surveys and research); University College Dublin (geological research); Codema; RML; TASC (communications and engagement).

The GEMINI Project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). PEACEPLUS promotes the opportunity for a ‘Programme for citizens to raise awareness and understanding of the benefits of geothermal heating solutions.’

For more information see www.geminigeothermal.com

Current Status

In the planning stage