Geothermal heat | Rotterdam Region

Geothermal Energy in the Rotterdam Region

In the Rijnmond region, Gaia Energy is working on the development of geothermal energy as a local and sustainable heat source for homes, businesses, horticulture and industry. Together with our partners, we are exploring and developing opportunities to make optimal use of the subsurface potential and to make geothermal energy part of the region’s future heat supply.

Sustainable heat for Rijnmond

The Rijnmond region has a large and diverse demand for heat. Homes, horticultural businesses and industry require significant amounts of energy for heating. Geothermal energy can make an important contribution to making this heat supply more sustainable. Geothermal energy is locally available, can provide heat continuously and is not dependent on sun, wind or season. Through heat networks, heat from the subsurface can be supplied to a range of users. In this way, geothermal energy can contribute to a reliable and future-proof heat supply while reducing the use of fossil fuels.

Developing multiple geothermal sources

Within the Rijnmond region, geothermal energy is being developed across four exploration licence areas. Further studies will determine where geothermal energy can best be developed and which locations are suitable for future geothermal sources. Subsurface potential, possible drilling locations, available heat infrastructure and future heat demand are assessed in an integrated manner. If the results are positive, multiple geothermal doublets can be developed in the region to supply sustainable heat to homes and businesses via heat networks. By considering the various developments as part of an integrated approach rather than as individual projects, the region’s geothermal potential can be utilised as efficiently as possible.

Partnership with OMV GeoTherm NL

Gaia Energy and OMV GeoTherm NL are working together to further develop geothermal energy in the Rotterdam region. In September 2026, the two parties signed a Cooperation Agreement to formalise this collaboration. The partnership covers four exploration licences in the region and is aimed at the joint development of a series of geothermal doublets. Gaia Energy and OMV are working from a single, integrated geothermal source strategy. Both parties contribute their own knowledge and experience. OMV has extensive expertise in subsurface and drilling activities. Gaia Energy contributes its expertise in the development, realisation and operation of geothermal projects and in connecting geothermal energy to heat demand and heat infrastructure. By combining this expertise, we are building a strong foundation for the further development of geothermal energy in the Rijnmond region.

From subsurface to heat supply

Developing geothermal energy requires more than a suitable subsurface. Permits, locations, drilling, surface installations, heat infrastructure, financing and sufficient heat demand all need to be aligned. Gaia Energy therefore takes an integrated approach to the entire heat value chain. Within the Rijnmond developments, we contribute our expertise in:

• geological studies and subsurface analysis;
• project development and permitting;
• design and realisation of geothermal installations;
• heat infrastructure and connection to heat demand;
• safe and reliable operations and maintenance.

By considering these elements together from the development stage onwards, we work towards geothermal projects that are technically, economically and socially future-proof.

Working together on the heat transition

Developing geothermal energy in a densely populated region such as Rijnmond requires close cooperation. Municipalities play an important role in the development of heat networks and in making the heat supply of neighbourhoods more sustainable. Heat companies, customers, public authorities and other partners are also involved in developing a future-proof heat system. Safety and careful project development are central throughout this process. During the various project phases, local communities and other stakeholders are kept informed about studies, potential locations and next steps.

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