progres.nrw – Program for Rational Energy Use, Renewable Energies and Energy Saving – Hydrothermal Geothermal Risk Mitigation Program Area

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Who is funded

The progres.nrw program – Hydrothermal Geothermal Risk Mitigation Program Area – targets municipalities and companies in North Rhine-Westphalia who wish to implement projects for the development of medium-deep and deep hydrothermal geothermal energy. The aim is to overcome market failure and accelerate the decarbonization of heat supply in the region.

What is funded

The progres.nrw program supports various project phases in the field of medium-deep and deep hydrothermal geothermal energy. This includes studies for the preparation and implementation of geothermal projects, as well as seismic measurements and drilling for the development of this renewable heat source.

Type and Scope of Funding

Funding is primarily provided as a non-repayable grant in the form of co-financing, with the funding amount varying depending on the type of project and company size. For drilling, a conditionally repayable grant is provided, which depends on the project's success, thereby mitigating the exploration risk.

Conditions and Requirements

For funding under progres.nrw, specific conditions apply regarding project start, compliance with aid rules, data processing, and possible recovery of funds. It is important to submit the application before the project begins and to observe all state aid regulations.

Application Procedure

The application process for progres.nrw involves in certain cases a sketch procedure before the actual application submission and the submission of the application via the NRW.BANK's online customer portal. Approval is at the discretion of the competent authority.

Legal Basis

The progres.nrw funding program – Hydrothermal Geothermal Risk Mitigation Program Area – is based on a specific directive from the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and is supplemented by various budgetary and state aid regulations from the EU and the state.