Norfors has entered into a framework agreement (Letter of Intent) with the energy company Innargi A/S to investigate the potential of geothermal energy as a new renewable and reliable source of district heating. The agreement marks a decisive step towards reducing CO2 emissions and strengthening energy supply in the area.
"The heat from the Earth's core is there all the time, and it would be fantastic if we here in the municipality could utilise the renewable energy source that lies at our feet. The study of the geothermal potential in our area is an important step towards achieving our goal of supplying even more sustainable and safe district heating to our customers in Allerød, Fredensborg, Hørsholm and Rudersdal."
Morten Slotved
Chairman of Norfors' Board of Directors
Innargi takes the risk
Over the next year, Norfors and Innargi A/S will clarify the potential for geothermal energy for district heating customers in Hørsholm. Innargi's business model guarantees that Innargi takes 100% of the risk and cost of the initial exploration phase, and no funding is required from Norfors until heat flows.
"I am very pleased on behalf of our heating customers that Norfors does not run any financial risk with this framework agreement. We look forward to exploring the possibilities of geothermal energy and how geothermal can be integrated into our district heating system. This collaboration marks our commitment to seeking innovative solutions that can ensure a sustainable energy future for our customers."
Jette Miller
CEO of Norfors
About Geothermal Energy
Geothermal energy is the heat energy that originates from the earth's core. One to three kilometres beneath Denmark there are geothermal water reservoirs that run between 30-80 degrees Celsius that can be pumped to the surface via deep boreholes. The heat is then transferred to the water in the district heating network in a closed circuit. Once the heat is transferred, the geothermal water is pumped back underground. Depending on the temperature of the reservoir, a large heat pump may be required to raise the temperature to the level needed for the district heating network.
The energy potential for geothermal energy is exceptionally large, but the realisation of the potential depends on the conditions in the subsoil (sufficient flow and temperature) and the availability of land in the vicinity of the district heating network. In addition, the Danish Heat Supply Act requires that geothermal energy is competitive with the alternatives available to district heating companies.
"There is hot water deep underground, but how much, how deep and exactly where, we now need to find out. But together with skilled people in Norfors, we also need to clarify where and how the energy fits into the district heating supply."
Samir Abboud
CEO at Innargi
Facts about Geothermal
- Renewable and clean energy source: Geothermal energy is extracted from the heat of the Earth's interior, making it a renewable and inexhaustible energy source. It emits no CO2 and other pollutants, helping to reduce pollution and the effects of climate change.
- Stable and reliable energy supply: Geothermal energy is not affected by weather or climate conditions, making it a stable and secure source of energy production. It can be available 24/7, all year round, reducing the risk of energy shortages or supply interruptions.
- Flexibility and scalability: Geothermal systems can be customised to different needs and scaled up or down depending on energy demand. This makes them suitable for both large and small energy projects, as well as businesses and residential areas. As the system is extremely quiet in operation, geothermal energy is a great neighbour in densely populated areas.
About the Partners
Norfors is a joint municipal utility company founded in 1965. The stakeholders are Allerød Municipality, Fredensborg Municipality, Helsingør Municipality, Hørsholm Municipality and Rudersdal Municipality. In Norfor's stakeholder municipalities there are a total of approximately 212,000 inhabitants.
Innargi finances, develops, builds and operates large geothermal heating plants for district heating companies. The company is owned by A.P. Møller Holding A/S, ATP, NRGi and Sampension.
Click here to read the full press release.
