Welcome

In times of high oil prices, acceleration of climate change, a strong elevation of critical raw material demand and ruptures in global politics, we as dedicated geoscientists, engineers and leaders will have the opportunity to actively shape and guide towards a better and sustainable future. As Conference Chair, I am proud to bring together present and future experts from various disciplines and businesses to jointly shape the future of subsurface energy transition.  

The energy transition starts below the surface. In the subsurface, we find the space, resources, and capabilities needed to build a secure and sustainable energy system. Reaching Net Zero by 2050 requires more than ambition – it requires geological understanding and engineering. Carbon Capture and Storage, geothermal energy, hydrogen storage and critical raw materials from brines all rely on a deep understanding of the subsurface and on decades of experience from classical oil and gas exploration and production. Imaging the subsurface to identify prospects, and accessing reservoirs with wells to inject CO2 at industrial scale, is an important pillar to reach the Net Zero goal by 2050. Similar approaches are needed for geothermal energy, hydrogen and energy storage, key technologies to keep Europe’s industry alive.  
The EU has identified 34 elements as critical for its economy and many of them are crucial for the energy transition. We have them here, in the subsurface of Europe, and new approaches and technology allows us to explore and exploit, carefully and sustainable. From rocks, sediments or brine.    

Since I have joined EAGE’s 1st Sustainable Earth Sciences in Valencia in 2011, it is impressive for me to see, how great this event has developed. Follow our invitation to contribute, participate, engage, discuss, learn and make new connections to make this event a further step up for subsurface driven energy transition. I am looking forward to meeting you here in Hanover in November.

Axel A.O. Wenke

Director New Energy & Business Development, Neptune Energy