National research programme Subsurface

The Subsurface, a common good research programme aims to develop knowledge of the national subsoil at a time when there is a growing need for a better understanding of its resources and uses, and for better management of conflicts of use.

The subsurface holds key potential in terms of resources and uses to meet sustainable development objectives and support the energy transition. It is a source of low-carbon energies (geothermal energy, natural hydrogen), a reservoir of mineral resources essential to low-carbon technologies, a space for storing gas and energy, and a space for developing urban infrastructures.

Faced with increasing demand for subsurface resources, and the long-term risk of conflict, we need to plan and manage access to the subsoil more effectively.
This is the context in which the Subsurface as a common good programme is taking place. Co-piloted by the CNRS and BRGM, it focuses on 3 areas of research:

• Assess future national demand for subsurface resources and uses
• Improve knowledge of the subsurface, characterise geological potential and develop innovative technologies
• Analyse the issues and positions of the players involved in the potential uses of the subsurface, the legal frameworks and the environmental impacts

It is also intended to encourage dialogue between researchers in the Earth and environmental sciences, the social, environmental, economic and legal sciences, and with citizens, decision-makers and industry on these issues.

The programme targets 5 categories of resources/uses:

• Mineral resources,
• Deep geothermal energy,
• CO₂ and hydrogen storage,
• Native hydrogen,
• Urban infrastructure

It comprises 13 targeted projects, including 8 projects on cross-cutting issues ranging from analysis of subsurface anticipation practices and dynamic modelling of demand, to the development of innovative technologies, and analysis of the processes of subsurface politicisation, the environmental impact of uses, and changes in mining law. 
It also includes five regional study sites linked to specific types of subsurface resources and uses: the Rhine Graben, the Paris Basin, French Guyana, the Aquitaine Basin and the Massif Central.
The programme will support new research projects over the coming years, via dedicated calls for proposals, as well as training and awareness-raising initiatives.

PEPR Subsurface website

PEPR Subsurface LinkedIn Page