Siera Alliance

Geothermal energy for the new centre of Monheim

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Sustainable energy supply for a new urban neighbourhood

The development of modern urban neighbourhoods presents cities and project developers with a key challenge: How can a sustainable energy supply be integrated right from the planning phase?

A current example of this approach is the Redesign of the centre of Monheim, which is centrally located on Rathausplatz in the town of Monheim am Rhein.

In the third construction phase, a new neighbourhood with residential and office buildings is being created that is consistently geared towards a long-term sustainable energy supply.

The development of a renewable energy concept for the new neighbourhood was already planned at an early stage of the project by M&P Energy – Member of the SIERA Alliance supported.

Project overview

The centre of Monheim is being developed in several construction phases and will form an important part of the city’s infrastructure in the future.

The third construction phase comprises:

  • two residential buildings
  • two office buildings
  • a shared basement that connects several buildings with each other

Before construction work began, several older existing buildings were demolished to create space for the new neighbourhood development.

Geothermal energy at the heart of the energy concept

The energy concept is based on near-surface geothermal energy, which is used for both heating and cooling the buildings.

The system includes:

  • 170 geothermal probes
  • 95 metres depth per probe
  • Installation below the floor slab of the basement

This solution utilises the ground as a long-term renewable energy source and enables an efficient and low-carbon energy supply for buildings.

Construction phase and schedule

Preparations for the installation of the geothermal system are already underway.

Current project status:

  • Construction pit shoring completed
  • Excavation work currently underway
  • Start of geothermal energy construction: 30 March 2026

The installation phase of the geothermal system is expected to take around 4.5 months last.

Geothermal energy in urban development

Projects such as the Monheim Centre show how Geothermal energy can play a central role in the sustainable development of modern urban neighbourhoods.

By utilising the subsurface as a renewable energy source, geothermal systems offer several advantages:

  • Long-term security of supply
  • Reduction of CO₂ emissions
  • High energy efficiency
  • Reliable operation over decades

The role of M&P Energy

In this project, the client has been supported in the development of the geothermal energy concept since the early planning phases by M&P Energy – Member of the SIERA Alliance supported.

As part of the SIERA Alliance, a network of environmental and engineering experts, the company contributes extensive experience in the planning and implementation of sustainable energy systems.

The focus is on integrated energy solutions that combine technical feasibility, ecological responsibility and long-term operational efficiency.

Outlook

With the planned start of geothermal construction in spring 2026, the project represents an important step towards a sustainable energy supply for the Monheimer Mitte neighbourhood.

The project shows how geothermal energy can contribute to the development of climate-friendly urban infrastructure.

Further updates on the progress of the project will follow in the coming months.

Are you planning an infrastructure, industrial or urban development project and looking for a sustainable energy solution?

From the initial feasibility study through planning and approval to the implementation of geothermal energy systems, projects are supported by the experts from M&P Energy – Member of the SIERA Alliance accompanied.

Contact our specialists and find out how geothermal energy can be integrated into your project.

Engineering for a Better Tomorrow.

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A Message from the Founder: Florian von Tucher

In the mid-2000s my involvement in development aid took me to some of the most remote and impoverished regions of the world. 

Northern Tibet, Mongolia, and Western China – where I was involved with the implementation of decentralised wastewater treatment systems, I realised I needed a deeper purpose. Though I later found success in real estate development, the desire to make a lasting impact never left me.  

A pivotal moment occurred when I was invited to Ghana by my friend and mentor, Cardinal Peter Turkson, who was the head of the Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development of the Catholic Church at the time. He has since been appointed the Pontifical Chancellor of the Academy of Sciences and the Pontifical Chancellor of Social Sciences.  

Cardinal Turkson had a profound influence on me. His invitation gave me the opportunity to witness firsthand the development needs of the country. We reflected on my experiences in China, and together, we envisioned a model of development that would take root in one community and gradually expand. We believed that small, strategic steps could lead to lasting transformation – just like the biblical parable of the mustard seed, which grows into something far greater than its humble beginnings. 

Cardinal Turkson’s steadfast belief in this vision and encouragement became the base upon which the Mustard Seed Foundation was built. His unwavering support, wisdom, and guidance helped shape not just the mission of the Foundation, but my personal journey as well. 

With the encouragement of the Cardinal and the Integral Human Development (IHD) office, we initially operated with the IHD before establishing the Mustard Seed Foundation as a stand-alone organisation in Germany. We have been fortunate to receive support from numerous European donors, a humble reminder that our mission is not just about individual efforts – it is about collective impact. 

Collaboration has been a cornerstone of our work. We have partnered with organisations like Caritas and Rotary International to extend our reach. One of our most impactful collaborations has been with M&P Group, who donate their engineering concepts, project supervision, and high-quality technical execution, allowing 100% of donor contributions to go into the projects themselves. 

One such initiative is the Clean Water Initiative, launched in partnership with M&P Group. In 2024, we completed a well in Ndoss, Senegal, significantly improving agricultural efficiency and empowering the local community. This project epitomises our commitment to sustainable solutions – starting with clean water and gradually building infrastructure that supports long-term development. 

Our work aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on poverty alleviation, economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and humanitarian aid. Our model is simple but effective: start with one project and expand, year by year, to create an ecosystem of support. A water well leads to a school, which leads to renewable energy solutions, which, in turn, fosters economic opportunities. Over time, these efforts cumulatively transform entire regions. 

The Mustard Seed Foundation is a testament to what can be achieved with nothing more than a vision, a strong commitment, and the faith of a mustard seed. Yet, none of this would have been possible without the belief and encouragement of Cardinal Peter Turkson. His unwavering faith in our mission gave me the courage to persevere through challenges and continue expanding our impact. As we continue our work, we remain driven by the belief that small beginnings can yield great outcomes, inspiring hope and lasting change in the communities we serve. His legacy of faith, vision, and commitment to human dignity is deeply woven into every initiative we undertake.