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European Technology and Innovation Platform on Geothermal (ETIP-Geothermal)
Geothermal energy is gaining attention in Europe as a reliable, sustainable, and local energy source that supports decarbonisation goals. The Geothermal Implementation Working Group (IWG) has identified four main priorities: heating and cooling, electricity generation, underground thermal energy storage (UTES), and co-production of minerals with geothermal energy.
Data from IWG member states shows that heating and cooling is the top R&D priority, reflecting the fact that heating accounts for around half of Europe’s energy demand. UTES is also a key focus, as it can efficiently support seasonal heating and cooling when combined with heat pumps.
Although international collaboration is essential for advancing geothermal energy, it remains a relatively small part of energy systems and R&D funding in most European countries, except Iceland. R&D funding trends across Europe are inconsistent, with some countries increasing and others decreasing investment, highlighting the need for stronger advocacy for geothermal R&D. Most reported projects focus on geothermal heating and cooling for buildings and district heating, as well as geothermal exploration and related technologies.