The geothermal energy session of the upcoming DGG Annual Meeting aims to systematically represent the current state of geoscientific research as well as technological and methodological developments in the field of geothermal and tectonic utilization. Against the backdrop of increasing demands for sustainable energy supply, both the characterization of subsurface structures and innovative new technological approaches for geothermal systems are gaining prominence.

The objective of this session is to present current national and international research projects that contribute to the optimization of geophysical exploration and modeling methods. Relevant topics include the seismic and petrophysical characterization of geothermal reservoirs, the integration of drilling and monitoring data into multidisciplinary modeling approaches, and the analysis of complex geological data spaces for assessing usable subsurface potential and structural risks.

A particular emphasis is placed on methodological and technological developments. These include advances in reservoir stimulation, optimized coupled models of heat transport and fluid circulation, as well as data-driven decision support systems. In addition, research efforts that develop new concepts for combined geothermal and/or tectonic utilization—thereby expanding the spectrum of geoscientific applications—are to be considered.

The inclusion of industry-oriented projects, especially those focusing on scalability, economic viability, and sustainability of geothermal technologies, complements the scientific contributions with practice-relevant perspectives. This creates an integrative framework that reflects the state of knowledge along the entire geothermal value chain.

The goal of the session is to structure a coherent, interdisciplinary program that links scientific excellence with application-oriented issues and promotes exchange between research institutions, industry partners, and public authorities. It aims to make a substantial contribution to the further development of the geothermal field and to strengthen the visibility of current innovations within the international geoscientific discourse.