Geothermal probes penetrate deep into the ground, penetrate various layers of earth and usually also affect the groundwater. A permit under water law is therefore generally required for the drilling of boreholes to create a geothermal probe system. These boreholes are not permitted in water protection areas (zones I, II and IIIA) if they penetrate the aquifer used for drinking water purposes.
A permit under water law is also generally required for groundwater heat pumps (extraction / absorption wells) and other near-surface geothermal systems (thermally activated foundation bodies, energy piles, energy baskets, trench collectors, etc.) that are connected to the groundwater.
If you are interested in implementing such a system, please contact the Environment Department of the Ludwigsburg District Office directly in advance as the responsible lower water authority (office: Tel. 07141 / 144-43267, email).
You can also use the "Sample procedure manual for water law approval procedures" developed by the state of Baden-Württemberg as a guide. You can find the procedure manual here. In Baden-Württemberg, the competent lower water authorities are regarded as the single authority.
Further information:
State Office for Geology, Raw Materials and Mining (LGRB)
Information system for near-surface geothermal energy in Baden-Württemberg (ISONG)
Ministry for the Environment, Climate Protection and the Energy Sector Baden-Württemberg
