Deep Geothermal Study 2026 Grant

Agence de la transition écologique (ADEME)

About this grant

This ADEME aid finances feasibility studies (études de faisabilité) for deep geothermal projects, helping project owners verify the technical and economic viability of a deep geothermal investment before committing to it. The programme is delivered through the Fonds Chaleur and is open from 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2026, with the aid described as currently running. The study scope covers projects involving thermal valorisation of deep geothermal resources located deeper than 200 metres. Eligible operations include drilling a doublet (or other configuration such as a triplet or multidrain) into a deep aquifer with or without a heat pump; reinjection into a deep aquifer on an existing operation; conversion of a former oil well for thermal use of the hot water produced, with or without a heat pump; and installation of heat pumps alone on a heat network fed by an existing deep geothermal plant. The studies are expected to address regulatory requirements specific to the operation, project phasing, technical solutions adapted to the site, risk identification and minimisation (cost and operational), investment and operating cost estimates, comparison of geothermal against other energy options, long-term resource sustainability, and financing and legal/administrative structuring. Applicants are asked to demonstrate that sobriety, demand pooling via existing heat networks, waste heat recovery and other local renewables (such as solar thermal) have been considered first, in line with the EnR'Choix approach. For de-risking studies above 200 k EUR, the geothermal guarantee fund (fonds de garantie géothermie) may cover 80% of eligible expenditure, subject to a expenditure base cap of 1 M EUR. Applicants are directed to SAF Environnement, a subsidiary of the Caisse des dépôts et consignations, for further information on that guarantee.

Eligibility

The aid is open to local authorities and administrations (collectivités / administration), associations, and companies (entreprises). Applicants must create an Agir account to submit a file through the ADEME deposit platform. Aid is granted mainly through ADEME regional directorates, and prior contact with the relevant regional directorate is advised. The programme covers all regions and countries listed on the page (presented as toutes les Régions), and an online eligibility check is available.

Key requirements

• ✓Project must be for a deep geothermal (above 200 m depth) heating installation in France, typically feeding heating networks
• ✓Funding covers up to 70% of the feasibility study cost, capped at €100,000
• ✓Study must assess technical solutions and financial, administrative and legal set-up before works begin

Funder contact

The notice names a programme contact you can speak to before applying.

Frequently asked questions

How much funding does Agence de la transition écologique (ADEME) offer?

Deep Geothermal Study offers Jusqu'à 70% du coût de l'étude, dans un maximum de 100 000 €.

When is the Deep Geothermal Study deadline?

Applications close 31 Dec 2026.

Who can apply for Deep Geothermal Study?

Eligibility covers organisations in FR; local-authority, sme, large-company, consortium, consultancy. See the eligibility criteria above for the full conditions.

Relevant sectors

About this sector

Renewable energy funding covers solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal and bioenergy, from early research to grid-scale deployment. Public money tends to back demonstration, grid connection and access to energy in emerging markets, while procurement notices buy installation, operation and maintenance. Calls often ask for proof of resource assessment, permitting progress and local partners.