The European Geothermal Energy Council is delighted to announce that the Ruggero Bertani European Geothermal Innovation Award 2025 has been awarded to EnBW Energie Baden-Württemberg for its pioneering CASCADE project, an innovative approach to lithium extraction from geothermal brines.
The EGIA award, recognises outstanding companies that have made outstanding contributions towards the development of the geothermal field in Europe.
The CASCADE project represents a breakthrough in sustainable lithium extraction made in Europe, a critical element for the energy transition and the growing electric vehicle market in Europe and the world. The process schemes currently use Al-based adsorbents in single reactors, but the resulting preliminary product still contains a relevant level of impurities. The technology, tested at the Bruchsal geothermal plant (Germany), offers a scalable and environmentally friendly solution for lithium production, strengthening Europe's position in the global battery supply chain.
Thomas Koelbel, representing EnBW, expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying, "It was a severe competition, and all the other nominated companies had excellent projects. We are very happy to have received this award." Laura Herrmann, representing EnBW, added that they "really want to continue with this project to bring it to the next level."
Miklos Antics, President of EGEC, praised the project, stating:
"The CASCADE technology is a game-changer for the geothermal and battery industries. EnBW's innovation demonstrates how geothermal resources can go beyond energy production to support critical raw material supply in a sustainable manner. This award highlights the role of geothermal energy in enabling Europe's energy independence and climate goals."
EnBW Energie CASCADE project stood out for its innovation, sustainability, and potential to revolutionise the future of lithium production. EGEC congratulates EnBW Energie Baden-Württemberg on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to further advancements in geothermal sustainable energy innovations.
As every year, the competition was very high-level. The finalists included:
- EnBW Energie Baden-Wuerttemberg AG - CASCADE
- HALLIBURTON - Truesync PMM: Geothermal Electric Submersible Pump (GeoESP) Motor
- ÍSOR - Iceland GeoSurvey - Flexible Coupling
- Mines Paris - PSL University - ORCHYD
- QHeat - Integration of Heating and Storage Wells to Waste Burning Facility
More information about the EGIA 2025 Award can be found here.
More information about the EGIA 2025 endorsed nominations can be found here.
The Full Press Release is available here.
ABOUT EUROPEAN GEOTHERMAL ENERGY COUNCIL (EGEC)
The European Geothermal Energy Council (EGEC) is a not-for-profit organisation promoting all aspects of the geothermal industry. Founded in 1998, its objective is to facilitate awareness and expansion of geothermal applications across Europe by shaping policy, improving investment conditions and steering research. It has over 200 members from 30 countries, ranging from developers to equipment manufacturers, energy providers, national associations, consultants, research centres, geological surveys, government agencies, departments and public authorities. This allows EGEC to represent the entire geothermal sector.
