The Lorient pilot site is advancing its study of aquathermal energy for district heating and cooling systems. This project, managed by SPL BER and conducted by the engineering firm S2T, focuses on evaluating the technical, environmental, and financial viability of using aquathermal energy across four key sites:
- The floating dock basin of Lorient's marina.
- The fishing and commercial port of Kéroman.
- Naval Group’s water dock.
- K3 – the submarine dock.
S2T provides project management for energy networks, from the preliminary design phases to the commissioning of installations. It partnered with Stratégéo, a geothermal engineering consultancy specializing in environmental and waterbody assessments.
Key Details:
The feasibility study, launched in August 2024 after an April tender process, is being conducted by the engineering firm S2T under the guidance of SPL BER. The study follows a phased approach:
Mandatory phase :
- Analyzing the energy needs of four defined sites and updating a previous feasibility study conducted on a wastewater treatment plant.
Followed by optional phases :
- Assessing the technical feasibility of the aquathermal system on the site(s) and the associated district heating network,
- Conducting regulatory and environmental analysis,
- Performing economic and environmental analysis.
This structure allows the project to pause if early findings prove it is unviable.
In December 2024, S2T conducted site investigations, including a review of the wastewater treatment plant and other technical facilities. The final report is expected in September 2025, with the goal of presenting a viable, large-scale aquathermal energy solution for at least one of the selected sites.
Expected Outcome:
The final report, due in September 2025, aims to provide a comprehensive feasibility assessment. If successful, the study will showcase the potential of aquathermal systems for "large-scale" applications, benefiting the consortium and early adopters alike.