Background: High-Tech Agenda Germany
In July 2025, the German government adopted the High-Tech Agenda Germany developed by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) and allocated €18 billion for this purpose. The aim is to realign research, technology and innovation policy in Germany in order to achieve enhanced competitiveness, value, and sovereignty.
The agenda focuses on six key technologies: artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, microelectronics, biotechnology, fusion and climate-neutral energy generation, and technologies for climate-neutral mobility. It also identifies five strategic research fields, including “marine, climate and sustainability research”, as well as various levers, such as “knowledge and technology transfer”.
Role of the High-Tech Agenda Germany for the GFZ
The GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences is the national centre for research of the Earth system. The High-Tech Agenda Germany (HTAD) creates new conditions for translating research results into new technologies. Within the framework of the HTAD, the GFZ also aims at improving its ability to translate research into applications that ensure sustainable life on Earth. In terms of economic potential and innovation, this applies in particular to Germany as a location, but at the same time it has global implications and thus also promotes global market opportunities.
In line with the objectives of the High-Tech Agenda Germany, the GFZ can contribute comprehensive methodological and technological expertise and innovative strength:
We develop, establish and operate extensive measurement networks, national and international observatories, data and analysis infrastructures ranging from satellite remote sensing to the use of the geological subsurface, as well as demonstrators in the field of geothermal energy and underground storage.
Alongside the other Helmholtz Centres in the Helmholtz Association’s “Earth and Environment” research field, we have access to unique data and computing power covering the entire process from data collection and modelling to the derivation of information for innovative applications.
We will contribute these comprehensive competencies to the two HTAD key technologies “Artificial Intelligence (AI)” and “Climate-neutral energy generation” with the defined objectives “Deep geothermal energy research initiative” and “Hydrogen Research Rub”. Our initiatives also address the HTAD’s strategic research field “Marine, climate and sustainability research”.
Our specific project initiatives for the High-Tech Agenda are
- Cockpit Earth: AI lead project for monitoring sustainable development
Contact: Prof. Niels Hovius, Prof. Wolfgang zu Castell - Deep geothermal energy: Research and innovation offensive
Contact: Prof. Ingo Sass, Daniel Acksel - Innovative hydrogen pore storage demonstrator
Contact persons:inside: Dr. Cornelia Schmidt-Hattenberger, Prof. Ingo Sass
We have been preparing project networks for this purpose since the end of 2025.
If you would like to become a partner in our consortia and networks, please contact us.
Link tips
- Overview page: Geothermal energy - Regenerative heat from the earth
- Fact Sheet: Geothermal energy
- Fact Sheet: Innovative hydrogen pore storage demonstrator in the state of Brandenburg