The future of geothermal energy in Europe

Abstract: In this paper it is investigated the role that geothermal energy could play in theenergy mix, to meet new system requirements. As any other source, geothermal energy harnessing implies a number of risksmainly related to induced seismicity and landslides, together with the releaseof as greenhouse gases and metal salts. Moreover, important barriers to itsimplementation still exist, mainly concerning financial aspects and drillingoperations. As well, administrative status is uncertain and related investmentin R&D negligible. However, geothermal energy presents important advantages in relation toother energy sources, as its reliability and large capacity factor, comparable tonuclear and natural gas plants. It could help to reduce both the globalwarming, whose potential is up to 5 times lower than in the case of fossilfuels, and the landuse, the lowest of any power plant. Additionally, in spite ofthe high and risky initial investment, energy produced by geothermal means is amongst the cheapest. The geothermal potential is large enough to substantially contribute to theenergy mix, through locally available resources. Economic potential in Europeby 2050 is estimated in 100 – 4 000 TWheand 880–1 050 TWhth. Nevertheless, currently available technology strongly limits the access togeothermal resources. In addition, predictions about geothermal utilizationare modest and have hardly been achieved to date. The key for the future isthe development of the Engineered Geothermal Systems.