Underground thermal energy storage in Europe: from innovation to deployment

Seasonal heat storage is becoming an essential component of next-generation district heating systems. But what are the latest technological developments, where are the most promising projects being implemented, and what role will Underground Thermal Energy Storage (UTES) play in Europe's heat transition?

Join us on 9 September 2026 (14:00–15:30 CEST) for the seventh chapter of the DHC Innovators Series, where leading experts will present the latest innovations, showcase real-life projects and discuss the opportunities and challenges of deploying UTES at scale. Whether you are a utility, technology provider, researcher or policymaker, this webinar will provide valuable insights into one of the most promising flexibility solutions for sustainable district heating.

A detailed agenda and speakers will be announced soon.

Draft agenda

• 14:00 – 14:05
  Welcome and introduction
• 14:05 – 14:15
  Underground Thermal Energy Storage in Europe
  Market overview, innovation trends and ongoing research
• 14:15 – 14:35
  Large-scale seasonal thermal energy storage
  Case study on Pit Thermal Energy Storage (PTES)
• 14:35 – 14:55
  UTES in urban environments
  Innovative applications and lessons learned from European cities
• 14:55 – 15:15
  Integrating UTES into district heating systems
  System design, operation and optimisation through a practical case study
• 15:15 – 15:25
  Panel discussion and audience Q&A
• 15:25 – 15:30
  Closing remarks