As Europe accelerates its transition toward cleaner energy systems, new technologies are taking centre stage and there is a renewed focus on the role old landscapes can play in that transition. Across the continent, disused or declining hydrocarbon fields are being reconsidered for a different role: clean energy production through geothermal hydrogen.
At Geo-Engines, we believe that repurposing former oil and gas infrastructure could become a key part of Europe’s clean energy strategy. These sites already offer subsurface access, geological data and permitting frameworks that often act as barriers to new geothermal developments. They represent an overlooked opportunity with significant untapped value.
From Oil Extraction to Heat Utilisation
One of the key challenges in clean energy systems is maintaining consistent output. Solar and wind are essential components of the renewable mix, yet their generation is inherently variable and dependent on environmental conditions. At the same time, demand for clean hydrogen continues to grow across sectors such as industry, transport and energy storage.
To be truly low carbon, hydrogen produced via PEM electrolysis depends not just on clean electricity but also on effective thermal management. Temperature stability improves membrane efficiency and system performance, yet this aspect is often overlooked. Geothermal heat offers a reliable solution.
Many underused hydrocarbon fields still hold enough geothermal potential to support heat extraction. With the right technical approach, these sites can supply stable low-grade heat to hydrogen systems whilst enabling continuous operation with fewer emissions and less energy waste.
The European Energy Context
Europe is entering a pivotal phase in its energy transition. With energy security now a strategic priority, many countries are working to build resilient domestic capacity that reduces reliance on imports. At the same time, the continent faces ambitious emissions targets and increasing interest in regional hydrogen hubs.
This combination of political urgency and policy momentum makes repurposing oil field infrastructure not only feasible but also strategically valuable. These locations are already mapped, zoned and well understood. In many cases, legacy wells and subsurface assets can be adapted for new geothermal configurations, significantly reducing capital costs and development timelines.
Geo-Engines systems are designed to align with this type of infrastructure. Our approach integrates the thermal component of hydrogen production efficiently with a compact footprint and minimal environmental disruption.
Turning Legacy Sites into Clean Assets
Repurposing former extraction sites for clean energy applications is not only an engineering solution but also a strategic use of existing infrastructure. It reflects a shift in how subsurface assets can support the energy transition. Regions with a history of fossil fuel production now have the opportunity to play a continued role in delivering low carbon energy without the need for entirely new developments.
These locations can be reconfigured to support clean fuel generation, energy system balancing and improved regional energy resilience. For local communities, this approach offers a pathway to economic revitalisation while avoiding the environmental impact associated with renewed extraction.
These sites offer clear advantages for hydrogen developers and infrastructure planners. They often come with existing well data and characterised geology, and in some instances allow for a faster permitting process.
Geo-Engines: Enabling the Transition
At Geo-Engines, we design and deliver advanced geothermal systems specifically engineered to support clean hydrogen production through consistent, low-grade thermal energy. Our technology enables a new level of control over temperature management in PEM electrolysis, improving system stability and overall energy efficiency.
Our approach is particularly well-suited to projects seeking to repurpose legacy oil and gas infrastructure. By leveraging existing wells and subsurface data, we reduce the need for exploratory drilling and enable faster deployment across suitable European sites. This not only minimises environmental disturbance but also improves the economic case for integrating geothermal heat into hydrogen workflows.
Geo-Engines systems are modular and scalable, built for long operational life with minimal maintenance. By placing thermal energy at the core of hydrogen system design, we help operators reduce auxiliary energy demand, streamline system architecture and improve long-term performance.
At Geo-Engines, we see significant potential in underused subsurface assets and are focused on enabling technically robust, commercially viable geothermal hydrogen systems across Europe.
Turning the Past into a Clean Energy Future
Europe’s ageing oil fields may seem like relics of the past, but they hold untapped potential for the future. With the right vision and technology they can become a cornerstone of Europe’s clean hydrogen landscape.
The transition to European energy independence does not always require building from the ground up. In many cases the foundations are already in place and ready to be reimagined.
If you're exploring opportunities to repurpose legacy energy assets for clean hydrogen production, get in touch to learn how we can support your project.
