Energy Mine

Bedrock heat energy provides a carbon-free solution to the energy source of buildings and thermal networks especially in the latitudes of Finland, but so far only the near-surface heat source has been exploited using thermal wells reaching a maximum depth of about 500 m. The aim of the Energy Mine project is to examine possibilities to utilize bedrock heat of the depth range 500 – 2500 m using Pyhäsalmi mine as the research target. At this depth-range, heat content of the bedrock is larger than near the surface, also new more effective methods for heat collection can be developed and tested in underground conditions.

Our strategic aim

The Energy Mine project’s strategic aim is to study methods and feasibility to utilize the energy obtained. Secondly the project is looking for answers

  • Can the obtained heat flow be exploited as a part of local energy system of Pyhäsalmi municipality?
  • Are the local results reproducible elsewhere at sites with corresponding or similar underground constructions?
  • Is it possible to develop a general concept from the results obtained.

Third aim is to study possibilities to develop new business opportunities.

The project time is between 1.9.2017 – 31.8.2019 and the project is coordinated by the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK).

Further information:

Project Manager Lasse Ahonen,+358 400 102 487, lasse.ahonen@gtk.fi 

Post-doctoral Researcher Katariina Ala-Rämi, +358 50 3509471, katariina.ala-rami@oulu.fi