What Stakeholders Think About Geothermal Energy
As the GEOSYN project moves forward in its mission to validate an innovative geothermal-based heating and cooling system for industrial applications, understanding the perspectives of professionals and organisations in the field becomes ever more crucial. To this end, GEOSYN’s first webinar that took place on 6th March 2024 served as both a technical exchange and a listening space – where participants were invited to share their views, knowledge and expectations on the future of geothermal energy.
The responses collected reflect a sector that recognises the strategic potential of geothermal energy, while also confronting key barriers that limit its wider adoption— especially in the industrial landscape.
Geothermal Energy Is Viewed as Clean, Stable and Underutilised
Across the board, stakeholders see geothermal energy as a low-impact, stable and efficient solution. It is associated with qualities such as clean, reliable, and renewable – confirming its alignment with Europe’s decarbonisation goals.
At the same time, the level of familiarity with industrial applications remains uneven. Many professionals are still in the early stages of exploration, which indicates the need for clearer communication, demonstration cases, and access to technical know-how.
Strong Technical Expertise, but Limited Policy Representation
The geothermal community is anchored in strong technical competencies, with most participants active in engineering, renewable energy and scientific research. However, there is a notable lack of engagement on the policy and regulatory side. This imbalance risks slowing down progress. Without institutional visibility and supportive legislative frameworks, even the most innovative technologies face significant hurdles.
Cost and Visibility Are the Main Barriers to Scale-Up
The most pressing obstacles identified by stakeholders are consistent: high upfront costs – especially for drilling – remain a central issue, alongside limited awareness, insufficient incentives, and variable regional resource availability. These factors collectively create a challenging environment for large-scale deployment. Overcoming them will require coordinated efforts in research, financing, communication and regulation.
The Sector Sees Potential, but It Requires Structural Support
There is a shared belief that geothermal energy could become a mainstream energy source within the next decade, particularly in industrial settings where continuity and efficiency are essential. However, realising this potential depends on creating the right conditions. Stakeholders call for stronger policy support, improved access to funding, and clearer strategies to boost visibility and stakeholder engagement.
The insights gathered during GEOSYN’s first webinar offer a valuable foundation for action. They highlight where the sector is strong, where it is vulnerable, and where efforts should be focused to unlock geothermal’s role in Europe’s industrial energy transition.