Geothermal energy Geothermal energy has been gaining prominence in the international energy debate, thanks to its capabilities as a solid renewable source and the variety of uses it offers. From electricity production to more innovative applications such as air conditioning in historic buildings or even volcanic cooking, geothermal energy is proving to be a versatile option for diversifying and decarbonizing the energy matrix.
In recent years, the growing pressure to meet climate goals and the need for alternatives to conventional electricity supply have placed geothermal energy in the spotlight. However, its development entails overcoming regulatory and infrastructure challenges, especially in markets where this technology is not yet sufficiently implemented.
Canada: Opportunity and Regulatory Challenge in Geothermal Development
The Cascade Institute recently published a report which marks a turning point in the regulatory approach to geothermal energy in Canada. This document compiles the best practices adopted by The ten leading countries in geothermal production—such as the US, Iceland, or New Zealand—offering a roadmap for Canadian provinces to harmonize and improve their regulations.
The analysis, based on international experience, shows that the lack of a clear and homogeneous regulatory framework has hampered the development of large geothermal projects in Canada, despite abundant resources and advanced drilling technologies. Keys identified for successful development include precise definition of activities, regulatory independence from the technology used, agile permit procedures, limitation of monopolies through surface restrictions, realistic implementation deadlines and early public involvement.
The reconfiguration of the energy sector in North America and other regions
The reconfiguration of the energy sector in North America and other regions It is driven by the rise of data centers, artificial intelligence, and electrification. These new consumption hubs require a secure and continuous supply, where Geothermal energy emerges as a suitable candidate compared to the intermittency of other renewables.
According to various sector studies, advanced geothermal systems could provide much of the electricity demanded by technology centers in the next decade. The possibility of installing plants close to the point of consumption—minimizing losses and avoiding grid saturations—places this technology in the spotlight of major energy operators and investors. However, barriers remain, such as long permitting processes, lack of legal clarity regarding the ownership of groundwater heat, and the need to develop supply chains and local industry.
Unique uses of geothermal energy: from heritage to volcanic gastronomy
Beyond electricity generation, geothermal energy is finding its way into increasingly creative uses.In Spain, for example, some innovative projects have adapted this resource to heat historic homes or improve energy efficiency in listed buildings. This is the case of a medieval castle in the north of the Iberian Peninsula, where Heating and hot water are provided by underground heat, integrating contemporary comfort into a heritage-value building without resorting to traditional fuels.
Another outstanding example is found in Lanzarote, where natural geothermal energy is the backbone of a unique culinary experience. At the restaurant nestled in Timanfaya National Park, The dishes are cooked directly thanks to the heat emanating from volcanic activity, reaching temperatures sufficient to roast meat and fish without the need for external energy. This integration of nature and tradition highlights not only the uniqueness of the environment but also the potential of geothermal energy as a cultural and tourist resource.
Real weight and growth prospects in renewable generation
Although the Geothermal contribution to the global renewable electricity mix It is still modest compared to other sources such as solar, wind or hydroelectric, its presence is strategic in countries with abundant underground resources. In the European Union, for example, geothermal energy only accounts for about 0,5% of renewable electricity generated., far from wind or solar, but with expectations of growth as new technologies and appropriate support frameworks are developed.
The sector's progress is linked to both investment and regulatory solvency. Globally, geothermal generation exceeded 99 TWh last year, with new projects standing out in countries such as New Zealand, the Philippines, Turkey, Indonesia, the United States, and Japan. More than half of the recently installed capacity is concentrated in these markets., which serve as a reference for countries aspiring to scale up their geothermal infrastructure.
