Geoscience Ireland (GI) welcomes the current consultation on Geothermal Energy for the Circular Economy being undertaken by the Department of Environment, Climate & Communications (DECC). Public information sessions hosted by the Geoscience Policy Division of DECC include presentations by Geological Survey Ireland and the Geothermal Association of Ireland on the potential of the sector to contribute significantly to Ireland’s climate action plans. Consultants RPS are undertaking SEA and AA studies on the potential environmental aspects of the sector. The geothermal policy under preparation will also address the regulatory framework and issues of certainty, ownership, licencing and reporting.

GI along with seven European partners is leading an EU project on geothermal energy -GEE2– designed to improve participation by SMEs in the sector. Recent drilling of a 1km deep borehole by Geological Survey Ireland in Dublin city featured on RTE’s EcoEye . Temperature recorded at the bottom of the drillhole was 38C. 

Submissions on the draft policy can be made up to 1st March via GSPD@decc.gov.ie . Details of the policy and supporting studies can be found onhttps://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/feabb-minister-ryan-publishes-draft-policy-statement-on-geothermal-energy/