Ijen’s Blind Geothermal System vs. Zanskar’s AI-Discovered Resources: Two Models for Finding Hidden Heat The geothermal industry is entering a new phase in which the most valuable resources may no longer be the fields marked by obvious hot springs, geysers, fumaroles, or steaming ground. Increasingly, developers are targeting “blind” or hidden geothermal systems,reservoirs that lack clear surface expressions but can still contain the temperature, permeability, and fluid needed for commercial power generation. Two examples illustrate how different parts of the industry are approaching this challenge. In Indonesia, the Blawan-Ijen geothermal field in East Java was developed through geological interpretation, magnetotelluric imaging, conceptual modelling, and drilling. The project is now operating commercially, with its first phase delivering approximately 35 MW to the Java grid under a 30-year power purchase agreement. In the United States, Zanskar Geothermal & Minerals is using...
SCAN Drilling Campaign Completed: Unlocking Geothermal Potential Across the Netherlands
The completion of the SCAN drilling campaign marks a defining moment in the Netherlands’ journey toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. Spanning over two years—from October 2023 to December 2025—the ambitious program delivered eight strategically placed exploratory wells across the country. What began as a mission to better understand the Dutch subsurface has now evolved into a cornerstone for the next generation of geothermal energy development.
This campaign was never just about drilling wells. It was about answering one fundamental question: where, and to what extent, can geothermal energy be harnessed effectively in the Netherlands? With the operational phase now complete, the results are not only promising but transformative, offering clarity where uncertainty once dominated.
A Nationwide Effort to Decode the Subsurface
The SCAN program covered approximately half of the Netherlands, targeting regions with varying geological characteristics and energy demand profiles. From densely populated urban zones to more rural provinces, each drilling location was carefully selected to provide maximum geological insight.
Before the campaign began, it was already understood that not all regions would be equally suitable for geothermal energy extraction. However, the exact boundaries of viable zones remained unclear. SCAN’s approach was methodical: drill, analyze, and map the subsurface with unprecedented precision.
The outcome? A comprehensive dataset that significantly reduces uncertainty and enables more informed decision-making for future geothermal projects.
Operational Excellence and Safe Execution
Executing eight drilling operations across multiple provinces is no small feat. Yet the SCAN team managed to complete the campaign with a strong emphasis on safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
The project stands out for several reasons:
- Efficient project management ensured timelines were met without compromising quality.
- Robust safety protocols resulted in a successful campaign with minimal incidents.
- Positive community engagement demonstrated that large-scale subsurface operations can coexist with local interests when managed properly.
Beyond logistics, the campaign also achieved its scientific goals. Nearly all targeted data points were successfully collected, including a total of 1,347 meters of core samples—an invaluable resource for ongoing analysis.
Key Findings by Region
The real value of the SCAN campaign lies in its findings. Each region tells a different story, shaped by unique geological conditions and energy needs.
Metropoolregio Amsterdam: A High-Demand Opportunity
The Amsterdam Metropolitan Area represents one of the largest potential markets for geothermal energy in the Netherlands. With its dense population and significant heat demand, the region has long been a focal point for sustainable heating solutions.
Prior to SCAN, knowledge of the subsurface in this area was limited. Two key drilling operations changed that narrative:
- The first well revealed strong potential for geothermal extraction from the Slochteren Formation in areas south of the IJ.
- A second well confirmed similar opportunities north of the IJ and near Almere.
Additionally, the discovery of a permeable Breda Formation at shallow depths introduces exciting possibilities for high-temperature thermal storage.
These findings have already triggered further exploration, including a large-scale 3D seismic survey conducted in late 2025. The goal is clear: identify optimal drilling locations and move toward operational geothermal systems in the near future.
Utrecht and Gelderland: Regional Hotspots Emerging
The provinces of Utrecht and Gelderland also show considerable promise, particularly in areas with high heat demand.
Three key drilling sites—De Bilt, Ede, and Ouderkerk—provided critical insights:
- In all locations, the Slochteren Formation was found to be permeable, though with varying quality.
- Ede stood out with exceptionally high permeability, making it a strong candidate for geothermal development.
- Additional formations, including the Triassic Hoofdbontzandsteen and Zechstein layers, showed potential in specific locations.
The data suggests that the northeastern part of Utrecht, along with adjacent regions in Gelderland, offers the most favorable conditions for geothermal energy extraction.
This alignment between geological potential and heat demand strengthens the case for targeted investment in these regions.
Noord-Brabant and Surrounding Provinces: Mixed but Promising Results
In Noord-Brabant, four drilling operations were conducted, each designed to provide insights not only for the province itself but also for neighboring regions such as Limburg, Zeeland, and parts of Zuid-Holland.
The results varied, reflecting the complex nature of the subsurface:
- Heijningen (2024): Confirmed that the Brussels Sand formation is highly permeable at relatively shallow depths, making it suitable for shallow geothermal applications.
- Stad van Gerwen (2025): Identified the Breda Formation as a strong candidate for shallow geothermal energy, though deeper layers showed limited permeability.
- Heesch (2024): Revealed low permeability in the Triassic layers, despite initial expectations.
- Milheeze (2025): Delivered more encouraging results, with three permeable layers identified, including the Nederweert Formation and Triassic sandstones.
These mixed outcomes highlight an important reality: geothermal potential is highly localized. However, even in regions with less favorable conditions, valuable data has been gathered to guide future exploration.
Beyond Drilling: Data, Analysis, and Future Insights
With the drilling phase complete, the focus now shifts to analysis and data dissemination. The SCAN program is entering a new phase in 2026, centered on:
- Detailed examination of core samples
- Public release of all collected data
- Comprehensive reporting of findings
- Additional seismic surveys to refine subsurface models
One of the most significant contributions of SCAN is its commitment to transparency. By making data publicly available, the program enables a wide range of stakeholders—from private developers to local governments—to make informed decisions.
Reducing Uncertainty Through Advanced Mapping
Geothermal development has long been hindered by uncertainty. Without accurate subsurface data, projects carry significant financial and technical risks.
SCAN addresses this challenge by integrating drilling results with seismic data to create detailed geological models. These models are used to generate “potential maps” that indicate:
- Depth and thickness of geothermal reservoirs
- Temperature profiles
- Expected energy output
Compared to earlier models, these maps offer significantly reduced uncertainty, making geothermal investments more attractive and less risky.
Regional Studies and Strategic Planning
To translate data into action, several regional studies have been initiated.
Noord-Brabant Implication Studies
A series of studies launched in late 2025 aim to interpret the results of the four Brabant drilling sites. These studies will:
- Analyze each drilling outcome in detail
- Provide actionable insights for geothermal operators
- Support regional and municipal energy planning
Results are expected throughout 2026 and will play a critical role in shaping future projects.
Utrecht and FoodValley Initiatives
In Utrecht and surrounding areas, updated geological studies are underway, alongside feasibility assessments for specific municipalities.
These studies go beyond geothermal potential, also considering:
- Integration with existing heat networks
- Opportunities for thermal energy storage
- Alignment with local energy demand
The goal is not just to identify resources, but to ensure they can be effectively utilized.
Amsterdam’s Path to Deployment
Building on positive drilling results, the Amsterdam region is moving toward implementation.
Key milestones include:
- Completion of 3D seismic surveys
- Identification of optimal drilling sites
- Planning for the first operational geothermal system
The target is ambitious: to have a functioning geothermal source supplying heat by 2031. If achieved, this would represent a major leap forward in urban energy sustainability.
A Catalyst for the Energy Transition
The significance of the SCAN campaign extends far beyond geology. It represents a critical step in the broader energy transition, particularly in reducing reliance on natural gas for heating.
Geothermal energy offers several advantages:
- Low carbon emissions compared to fossil fuels
- Reliable, baseload energy unlike intermittent renewables
- Local energy production, enhancing energy security
By providing the data needed to unlock these benefits, SCAN is effectively laying the groundwork for a more resilient and sustainable energy system.
Collaboration at the Core
The success of SCAN is also a testament to effective collaboration. Funded by the Ministry of Climate and Green Growth and executed by leading organizations in energy and research, the program brought together expertise from multiple disciplines.
This collaborative approach ensured that:
- Scientific rigor was maintained
- Operational efficiency was achieved
- Stakeholder interests were balanced
Such partnerships will be essential as the Netherlands moves from exploration to large-scale deployment.
What Comes Next?
With the groundwork laid, the next phase will focus on turning potential into reality.
Key priorities include:
- Developing commercial geothermal projects
- Expanding heat networks to distribute energy
- Integrating geothermal with other renewable sources
- Continuing research to refine subsurface understanding
Local governments and private developers will play a central role, using SCAN data to guide investments and policy decisions.
Conclusion: From Exploration to Transformation
The completion of the SCAN drilling campaign marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. What started as an exploration initiative has evolved into a powerful enabler of the Netherlands’ energy transition.
By answering critical questions about the subsurface, SCAN has transformed uncertainty into opportunity. It has provided the tools, data, and confidence needed to move forward with geothermal energy development on a meaningful scale.
The road ahead will require continued effort, investment, and collaboration. But with the foundation now firmly in place, the Netherlands is better positioned than ever to harness the heat beneath its feet—and in doing so, reshape its energy future.
Source: Scanaardwarmte
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