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Geothermal Energy for the Heating Transition: How M&P Energy Delivers Holistic Specialist Planning

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Geothermal energy is becoming a central pillar of the energy transformation in the building sector. An increasing number of municipalities, project developers, and companies are searching for dependable partners to plan efficient, low-emission heating and cooling systems. M&P Energy – part of SIERA, supports clients across Germany with comprehensive engineering and consulting services for geothermal projects, from early feasibility assessments through to execution-ready planning.

With experience in borehole heat exchangers, shallow geothermal systems, water-to-water heat pump systems, and groundwater wells, M&P Energy develops solutions that enable efficient and sustainable use of subsurface energy.

1. Holistic Geothermal Specialist Planning: From Concept to Implementation

Reliable geothermal systems require that each project step, from concept development to detailed execution planning, is well coordinated. M&P Energy integrates geological, hydrogeological, and building engineering expertise into robust, coordinated planning solutions.

The company offers a comprehensive service portfolio, including:

  • Specialist planning of shallow geothermal systems
  • Planning of borehole heat exchangers
  • Design and dimensioning of groundwater wells
  • Variant analyses
  • Planning of geothermal drilling works
  • Execution of Thermal Response Tests (TRT)
  • Advisory services regarding funding opportunities
  • Thermo-hydrodynamic modelling
  • Tendering and construction supervision
  • Operational monitoring

Each system is engineered with precision to ensure high efficiency, long-term operational reliability, and economic performance.

2. From Borehole Heat Exchangers to Groundwater Wells

Depending on building type and site conditions, various geothermal concepts may be suitable. M&P Energy evaluates geological and hydrogeological parameters to identify the optimal system configuration for each project.

Typical solutions include:

  • Borehole heat exchangers for building heating and cooling
  • Groundwater heat pump systems with extraction and recharge wells
  • Low-temperature and local heating networks for districts
  • Seasonal underground thermal storage to enhance efficiency

These concepts enable reliable geothermal heat supply for new buildings, existing structures, commercial facilities, and public institutions.

3. Technical Tests, Modelling and Specialist Engineering Support

Before drilling or construction begins, high-quality data and sound analyses are essential. M&P Energy applies modern testing methods and modelling tools to minimize uncertainties and optimize system design.

Key technical services include:

  • Thermal Response Tests
  • Thermo-hydrodynamic modelling
  • Geological and hydrogeological assessments
  • Specialist engineering support during drilling operations

These steps reduce project risks and ensure accurate system dimensioning.

4. Geothermal Energy Within Integrated Energy Concepts

Geothermal systems achieve their full potential when integrated into a comprehensive building or district energy concept. Therefore, M&P Energy combines geothermal solutions with broader energy planning and consulting services.

In practice, this includes:

  • Development of energy concepts
  • Energy consulting
  • Energy audits
  • Energy management systems
  • Potential and feasibility studies
  • Transformation of existing heating systems
  • Strategies for building renovation and transformation
  • Support with funding programs such as the Federal Funding for Efficient Heating Networks (BEW)

This holistic approach helps clients reduce heating costs, increase efficiency, and achieve low-carbon heat supply.

5. Comparison of Common Geothermal Solutions

As project stakeholders often evaluate several system options, the following overview provides a practical comparison of key geothermal variants.

System TypeDescriptionTypical ApplicationRelevant English Terms
Borehole heat exchangersVertical probes up to 400 m depth for heating and coolingResidential buildings, commercial sites, districtsborehole heat exchangers
Groundwater wellsGroundwater extraction via extraction and recharge wellsBuildings with high heating/cooling demand and limited spacewater-to-water system, groundwater heat pump

6. Advantages of Geothermal Energy for Building Owners

Clients often want to understand whether a geothermal system is worthwhile in the long term. M&P Energy evaluates each project individually, yet numerous benefits consistently speak in favor of geothermal solutions.

Key decision factors include:

  • High heat pump efficiency due to stable source temperatures
  • Low CO₂ emissions and contribution to climate targets
  • Reduced dependence on volatile fossil fuel prices
  • Long service life of underground components (probes >50 years, wells >30 years)
  • Low operating costs thanks to minimal electricity consumption
  • Funding opportunities (BAFA/KfW/state programmes)
  • Compact design: most components are underground and suitable beneath new buildings
  • Cost-effective passive or active cooling in summer
  • Strong compatibility with local heating networks

Geothermal energy is among the most stable and future-proof energy sources for buildings.

7. From Building Assessment to Implementation: M&P Energy’s Transformation Approach

A structured project process ensures that technical, economic, and regulatory requirements are considered at an early stage. M&P Energy supports energy transformation projects through all phases—from analysis to commissioning.

A typical workflow includes:

  1. On-site building inspection and assessment
  2. Development of an energy concept and transformation plan
  3. Formulation of an energy transformation strategy for the building
  4. Detailed geothermal project planning, including permits
  5. Integration into heating, cooling, and building services systems
  6. Continuous optimization through energy simulations

Across all phases, experienced experts ensure compliance with technical standards and maximum operational reliability.

Conclusion: A Reliable Partner for Geothermal Energy and Building Energy Transformation

Geothermal energy is a key component of the heating transition. With comprehensive expertise in geothermal consulting, planning, and engineering implementation, M&P Energy supports clients in realizing efficient, dependable, and sustainable heating systems.

Whether groundwater heat pumps, borehole heat exchanger fields, low-temperature district heating networks, or full heating system modernization, M&P Energy – part of SIERA combines technical excellence with practical project experience.

Get in touch with the M&P Energy team to learn how geothermal solutions can sustainably optimize your building’s heat supply.

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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.