Groundwater Consulting
Turning Subsurface Data into Practical Project Guidance
SGE provides groundwater consulting services that combine hydrogeological expertise with regulatory and risk-based insight. We support clients in assessing aquifer systems, evaluating contamination risks, and managing groundwater as a critical resource across infrastructure, remediation, and environmental planning contexts. Our focus lies in integrating site-specific data into conceptual and numerical models that inform permitting, mitigation, and long-term project decisions.
Whether the goal is regulatory compliance, construction safety, or resource sustainability, we deliver targeted groundwater solutions grounded in scientific rigour, field experience, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Groundwater can make or break infrastructure projects – from tunnels and deep excavations to foundations and linear works. SGE helps project teams anticipate groundwater behaviour and turn it into clear inputs for design, permitting, and construction
By combining site data, geotechnical context, and numerical modelling, we reduce uncertainty, avoid delays, and support safe, compliant delivery in hydrogeologically complex settings
Groundwater Impact Modelling
Simulation of drawdown, inflow, and groundwater–structure interaction to inform tunnel design, foundation safety, and excavation risk management
Conceptual Site Modelling
Integration of hydrogeological, geotechnical, and structural context to support early risk screening, design iteration, and mitigation planning
Permitting & Documentation Support
Preparation of permit-ready reports, risk assessments, and groundwater management plans to support authority approval and stakeholder communication
Advisory During Construction
On-call interpretation of monitoring data, model updates, and design refinements to manage groundwater conditions during execution
Groundwater contamination is one of the most persistent and complex environmental risks – often invisible but critical to permitting, resource protection, and liability management. SGE supports clients in understanding and managing groundwater-specific contamination risks by focusing on subsurface transport, aquifer exposure, and regulatory compliance.
Our work concentrates on the interface between contaminated soil, groundwater, and infrastructure. We assist clients in identifying pollutant pathways, assessing aquifer vulnerability, and supporting remediation measures where groundwater protection is a regulatory priority.
For broader contaminated site services, including Phase I–II assessments and due diligence, please refer to our Geo-environmental Services page.
Contaminant Pathway Analysis
Identification of vertical and horizontal transport routes through soil and fractured media, including leaching to aquifers and lateral migration under gradient conditions
Groundwater-Relevant Conceptual Site Modelling (CSM)
Development of regulatory-focused CSMs at sites where groundwater receptors, abstractions, or excavation works may alter or expose pollutant pathways
Remediation Input for Aquifer Protection
Technical support in defining remediation targets, monitoring strategies, and design input for groundwater protection during site development or dewatering
Compliance Support and Regulatory Review
Documentation and expert input for permits, impact assessments, and groundwater quality compliance under national and EU regulations
Groundwater remains a vital resource for public water supply, agriculture, and industrial processes – but over-abstraction, pollution, and climate variability threaten long-term availability. SGE helps clients manage groundwater sustainably by assessing aquifer capacity, identifying viable abstraction points, and advising on legally compliant and climate-resilient water use strategies.
We support municipalities, landowners, and project developers in aligning groundwater use with hydrological realities, legal thresholds, and long-term planning needs. Our work extends from source identification to regulatory applications and ongoing monitoring design.
Resource Characterisation & Yield Estimation
Evaluation of aquifer structure, recharge potential, and sustainable abstraction rates based on site-specific and regional hydrogeological data
Well Planning & Testing Support
Advisory input on borehole siting, construction parameters, and pumping tests to validate capacity and water quality
Licensing and Monitoring Strategy
Preparation of permitting documentation and development of long-term monitoring concepts in line with regulatory and environmental requirements
Climate Stress & Resilience Planning
Assessment of groundwater vulnerability to seasonal variability, drought trends, and climate change, including adaptive use strategies
Geothermal systems depend on accurate characterisation of the subsurface. SGE supports planners, engineers, and municipalities in assessing geological suitability for shallow geothermal energy and advising on regulatory and groundwater-related requirements.
As a technically focused consultancy, we contribute hydrogeological expertise, thermal modelling, and site-specific data interpretation to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant integration of geothermal solutions, from single-site boreholes to district-scale applications.
Thermal Response and Conductivity Testing (TRT & GTC)
Field testing and data evaluation to assess site-specific thermal conductivity, essential for infrastructure planning, energy projects, and system sizing
Hydrogeological Constraints & Groundwater Protection
Identification of groundwater-related risks, thermal short-circuiting, and permitting conditions relevant to aquifer zones and water protection areas
Borehole Field Design Support
Input on probe spacing, depth, and thermal performance based on geology, groundwater flow, and thermal interference risk
Permitting & Technical Documentation
Guidance for regulatory approvals, including documentation required under national and EU-level groundwater and energy legislation
Why Modelling
At SGE, modelling is a decision-support tool – not just a technical output. We use conceptual and numerical models to evaluate groundwater behaviour, contaminant transport, and thermal impacts, helping clients reduce uncertainty, meet regulatory requirements, and design with confidence. Each model is tailored to project needs, balancing technical rigour with clarity and relevance.
Groundwater Flow
Description
Groundwater flow modelling helps clarify subsurface dynamics that influence design, permitting, and risk. SGE applies conceptual and numerical models to evaluate aquifer behaviour, account for density-dependent flow, and simulate conditions like frozen ground or layered aquifers, ensuring reliable inputs for planning and regulatory decisions.
Dewatering
Description
SGE applies 2D and 3D groundwater models to optimise well spacing and pumping rates for dewatering systems. Our simulations capture drawdown dynamics and their effects on slopes, embankments, and excavations. The design process accounts for soil–groundwater interactions to ensure efficient inflow control, minimise groundwater-related risks, and maintain structural stability throughout the project lifecycle.
Landfills and Dams
Description
For landfills and tailings facilities, SGE models water, gas, and heat movement through cover systems to evaluate long-term containment performance. By integrating unsaturated zone modelling with climate and site-specific boundary conditions, we help clients protect groundwater, meet compliance targets, and plan for post-closure scenarios.
Clear Groundwater Insights. Better Outcomes.
We help clients understand and manage groundwater risks - through modelling, regulatory strategy, and technical guidance. Whether it’s infrastructure, site remediation, or energy development, SGE delivers the insight needed to protect resources and move projects forward with confidence.
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Copyright © 2024 SGE – Sustainable Geo | Imprint | Privacy Policy
