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On 16 October 2025, Dr Jochen Zemke, expert in CO₂ storage at Untergrundspeicher- und Geotechnologie-Systeme GmbH (UGS), took part as a lecturer in the webinar ‘CCS – but where? Storage options in a reality check’. His presentation focused on the question of how geological formations in Germany can be used for the safe and sustainable storage of CO₂ – both onshore and offshore. Dr Zemke explained that Germany has considerable geological potential for CO₂ storage. However, he said it was crucial to tap this potential under clear legal conditions, with reliable monitoring and transparency towards the public. ‘CO₂ storage is technically safe and economically feasible – provided that planning and approval are carried out transparently and quickly,’ Dr Zemke emphasised in his presentation. He highlighted the importance of early site assessment and careful risk analysis to ensure both safety and acceptance during implementation. The webinar made it clear that the safe and permanent storage of CO₂ is a key component of a climate-neutral industry in Germany. With his many years of experience in the field of underground storage, Dr Zemke makes an important contribution to the technical and social discussion about practicable CCS solutions in Germany. Dr Zemke is available as a contact person for further information on planning and implementation services in the field of CO₂ storage.

Since September 15, 2025, Mr. Fredrik Ljungman has been the Managing Director of UGS GmbH. The energy markets in Germany and Europe have undergone massive changes in recent years. Technologies such as hydrogen storage, geothermal energy, and CCS/CCUS have become indispensable components of the energy industry. Many companies and investors have already chosen to actively pursue these future-oriented paths. Mr. Ljungman brings with him more than 20 years of experience in various international companies. With his expertise, he aims to support and advance UGS GmbH both in its new strategic direction and in the strengthening and further development of the traditional storage business. He looks forward with confidence to the upcoming tasks and opportunities in a rapidly changing market environment.

Today (04.02.2025), in the presence of Dr Abdel Haq, Mrs Cichowicz, Mrs Liebe, Mr Wawrok and Dr Nickel, the original seal was officially handed over by Mrs Lucas, the BG inspector responsible for UGS. Frank Nickel Safety Engineer

In general, it is clear that geothermal energy is recognized by many as a major growth market that is worth investing in. For example, the Heat Planning Act requires municipal utilities to develop a heat supply concept by 2026 and beyond (depending on the number of inhabitants) that is primarily based on renewable energies and increasingly eliminates fossil fuels. In this respect, the pressure to develop concepts is great. However, the industry has also recognized that the Fuel Emissions Trading Act (BEGH) will result in significantly higher costs for companies in the future if CO2 emissions are high. For this reason, numerous representatives from industry (e. g. MAN, Opel, ...) and also from the banking sector (BNP Paribas) were present, who are thinking hard and looking for a wide range of services. We would like to thank everyone who was involved in preparing for and following up on the trade fair and, of course, our colleagues on site. We are already looking forward to GeoTHERM 2025 (20/21.02.2025), which will once again be held in Offenburg.

In general, it is clear that geothermal energy is recognized by many as a major growth market that is worth investing in.