Policies for the promotion of geothermal energy in Italy: Objectives or 2020 regulations and incentives

Abstract

The National Action Plan1 for renewable sources (PAN) has set the main objectives for 2020, regarding the development of the use of geothermal resources for the electricity generation and for thermal utilizations (especially by GHP). Achieving these goals will be possible only with a definite framework of rules, both from the point of view of incentive systems and authorization schemes. Geothermal framework is evolving fast in Italy, generating a) strong motivation of important companies in the electricity and investment sectors, b) perspective of utilization of geothermal resources with middle and low capacity geothermal plants, c) technological development of the national geothermal industry, d) significant benefits for the country and then for the regions and the local labour in the fields of environment, economy and employment. Promotion and incentivisation of district heating from geothermal sources (also with the help of heat pumps; with the use of geothermal probes exchange coupled to HP; if necessary in synergy with other sources).