Environment Regulation- Cold-heat storage (KWO) free zone

The cold-heat-storage-free zone is the groundwater protection area where the groundwater can be at a pump well for the public drinking water supply within 25 years and where there is no adequate protective clay layer. Cold-heat storage systems are not allowed within this zone. The application of these systems poses risks for drinking water extraction. Warming of the groundwater can lead to change, for example, of chemical quality, there may be negative influence on the flow direction of groundwater for drinking water preparation and calamities may occur when liquids are used in closed systems. Drilling into the soil can also pose a threat. These systems are therefore not allowed. The update plan was adopted by Provincial States on 31 March 2021, the date of entry into force is 16 April 2021.