Prioritise Inclusive, Early, and Continuous Societal Engagement to Maximise the Benefits of Geothermal Technologies

In this chapter, we investigate how increasing the role of geothermal energy in the European energy mix intersects with societal engagement in energy decision-making. Specifically, we explore how geothermal energy offers a low carbon, local-based and stable solution to heating and cooling and electricity production, unpacking opportunities and sector-specific challenges, how societal engagement can support a democratic energy system, and the implications for the geothermal sector considering its specific opportunities and challenges. Doing so, we address a key priority of the European Green Deal, supplying clean, affordable and secure energy, including actions on ‘diversifying energy supply’ and ‘investing in renewables’ of the REPower EU Plan.