Sustainable potential of shallow geothermal heat recycling in Dresden, Germany

In this study, we investigate the geothermal potential of the shallow subsurface in Dresden, Germany. The analysis considers the <i>status quo</i> scenario in which accumulated heat can be recycled. Installing all possible geothermal systems based on the available space, this heat could supply Dresden's residents for 3 years with energy for space heating. However, a fair CO₂ price would have to be implemented to improve economic value. Next, a near-future scenario is studied, in which accumulated heat has been <i>recycled</i> and, considering all technical constraints, the annual heat input provides a sustainable potential that can provide up to 4.5% of annual heating demands (HDs). However, there is a very high spatial variability that is studied in regard to its socio-economic implications. Finally, two far-future scenarios (<i>SSP245</i> and <i>SSP585</i>) are studied to understand the effect of climate change on the suitability of geothermal systems. Depending on the scenario and circumstances, up to 82% of the city's climate neutrality targets might be reached.This article is part of the theme issue 'Urban heat spreading above and below ground'.