Promotion of near-surface geothermal energy in conjunction with a heat pump

The funding measure supports the installation of near-surface geothermal systems in conjunction with a heat pump in North Rhine-Westphalia. Grants are provided for geothermal probes, geothermal collectors, and well drilling with fixed amounts of €35 per meter drilled in new buildings and €50 per meter drilled in existing buildings. The maximum funding amount is €12,000 for existing buildings. Eligible applicants include private individuals, companies of all sizes, municipal and non-profit organizations. Each individual borehole may be a maximum of 400 meters deep. Design and execution must comply with VDI 4640, and only qualified drilling companies may be employed. Eligible costs include drilling, grouting, materials, and planning expenses. Funding for domestic hot water systems and household electricity is excluded. The approval period is a maximum of 36 months; applications may be submitted at any time until June 30, 2027, subject to available budget funds.

Application requires submission of the application form (Annex 1), a stratigraphic log, a grouting protocol, a tightness test, and a contractor’s or expert’s declaration. In the electronic procedure, operators are required to await the finalized grant approval notice before commencing earthworks. During the execution phase, continuous documentation must be ensured: each borehole must be grouted without cavities, a functioning leakage monitoring system must be established, and compliance with material and temperature specifications must be demonstrated. Upon completion, a site plan, drilling protocol, grouting documentation, and pressure test reports must be submitted. This measure makes an important contribution to the energy transition and climate protection in North Rhine-Westphalia.