Geothermal energy is gaining ground in Spain, especially in volcanic regions like the Canary Islands, where it is considered a strategic option for achieving energy self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Research and support from European funds have boosted the development of this renewable energy source, which requires significant investment and carries certain risks, but can also offer stable, clean electricity production that complements other renewables such as solar and wind power.
Interest in harnessing the natural heat of the subsoil translates into surveys, exploration and infrastructure development, which, although they require significant investment, open the door to greater diversification in the energy mix and contribute to the transition towards a more sustainable model.
Geothermal energy in the Canary Islands: history, challenges, and ongoing projects
The history of geothermal energy in the Canary Islands dates back to the late 70s, when the Spanish Geological and Mining Institute (IGME-CSIC) carried out drilling in Lanzarote to characterize the energy potential of the volcanic subsoil. The Lanzarote-1 borehole, located in Timanfaya National Park, reached a depth of 2.702 meters and marked a landmark event in geothermal research in the archipelago.
The oil crisis of the 70s spurred energy diversification, with research continuing on islands such as Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Palma. The unique conditions of the Canary Islands, with subsurface temperatures exceeding 600°C at shallow depths, laid the groundwork for future projects. The drop in crude oil prices in the 90s brought these initiatives to a halt, but the reactivation of funding and the rise of renewable energy have once again brought geothermal energy to the forefront.
Currently, Tenerife leads the way in geothermal exploration with projects supported by entities such as the Island Council, ITER, INVOLCAN, the company DISA, and the internationally renowned Reykjavik Geothermal. The investment exceeds €40 million, co-financed by the European Union's Next Generation funds. The work is focused on the southern part of the island, particularly in Vilaflor, following a comprehensive analysis of more than 17.000 hectares that has identified water and temperatures exceeding 150°C at a depth of two and a half kilometers.
Public-private collaboration is essential to address the high costs and risks of exploration. The Canary Islands Geothermal Energy Consortium (EGC), which includes both public bodies and private companies, is leading the surveys and aims to establish geothermal energy as a driver of economic and environmental transformation. If the results confirm the potential, the Canary Islands could have a 100% renewable electricity system by 2040.
However, regulatory uncertainty and the lack of a specific tariff make medium- and long-term planning difficult. Both companies and institutions are calling for clear regulations to attract investment and ensure the viability of future projects, citing European models in regions with similar conditions, such as the Azores in Portugal, as an example.
National recognition of geothermal energy
The promotion and dissemination of geothermal energy is also reflected in initiatives such as the awards presented by the Galician Geothermal Cluster Association (ACLUXEGA). These awards annually recognize entities, companies, institutions, and individuals who have promoted exemplary projects in the implementation and communication of this energy source.
In the latest edition, the awards were distributed across several categories: business, residential, renovation, and unique construction. Companies such as Corporación Hijos de Rivera and Alma Carraovejas were recognized for their projects, as were others dedicated to the development of housing, residential centers, unique facilities, or floriculture, demonstrating the versatility and positive impact of geothermal energy in various sectors.
During the awards ceremony, the progress of the Geothermal Map of Galicia was also presented , prepared in collaboration with INEGA, which illustrates the growth of geothermal installations in the region and its potential yet to be discovered.
The institutional support of organizations such as the Xunta de Galicia, along with the participation of professional associations and financial entities, reinforces the commitment to geothermal energy as an engine of innovation, employment and future sustainability.
Spain's commitment to geothermal energy is marking a turning point in its energy strategy. Initiatives in the Canary Islands, Galicia, and other regions demonstrate the potential of this technology to reduce dependence on oil and achieve more stable, cleaner, and environmentally friendly electricity production. Collaboration between public and private entities, along with recognition of outstanding projects, is key to consolidating geothermal energy as a fundamental component of energy development.
