Utilization of the energy stored in the ground in the form of heat represents a great energy potential. Geothermal energy is environmentally sound, easily accessible everywhere and economically favourable. NGI has the scientific know-how to develop works for exploitation of geothermal energy.
The energy stored in the bedrock and groundwater may be used for heating of buildings. Geothermal energy installations may also be used for cooling in the summer. New federal buildings greater than 500 m2 must elucidate the alternative possibility of using environmentally sound energy sources. Geothermal energy is one such sound energy source.
NGI's state-of-the-art expertise
- Thermal properties of of rock and sediments (soils)
- Long experience from development, construction and operation of both shallow and deep installations for exploitation of geothermal energy
- Expertise in drilling of geothermal energy wells ¿ well design and choice of drilling methods and equipment.
Our experts have close contact with the profession in geothermal energy, both in Norway and internationally.
Services related to geothermal energy.
The comprehensive geoscientific expertise at NGI, including geology, engineering geology, rock mechanics, soil mechanics, hydrogeology, instrumentation and monitoring, modern laboratory facilities, geophysics, geo-chemistry, drilling technology, numerical modelling and environmental expertise, provides a unique starting point for development and optimum solutions for exploitation of geothermal energy.
With its geoscientific expertise NGI contributes to the development of geothermal works and co-operates with contractors, heat pump suppliers and water utility and sanitary engineering consultants for distribution of the energy.
Reserch and development
- Geothermal properties of typical Norwegian rocks
- Groundwater seepage
- How much heat can be extracted
- Geotechnical conditions in relation to establishing geothermal works
NGI is also active in conjunction with lectures and as advisors to students within the geothermal energy, at NTNU, UiO and other universities in Norway. In addition, NGI contributes to the development of codes and regulations for Norwegian authorities, such as NVE (Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate), The Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD), and Standards Norway (SN) etc.
NGI is the Norwegian representative in IEA's (The International Energy Agency) research networks within energy storage (IEA-ECES-IA). The network has existed since 1978 and 14 countries and institutions are involved. The technical work is carried out through projects (Annexes) and the network has had great significance for the development and growth of geo-energy. Read more.
NGI participates in the research project Creativ, lead by SINTEF Energy Research. The objective of the project is research-based innovation for energy efficiency in industry. NGI's contribution will be storage of waste heat in the ground. Several major industrial companies participate in the project which ends in 2013. Read more.