Managing Political, Industry and Community Expectations for Development of Geothermal Resources – a Multinational Comparison

Abstract

While many countries have geothermal resources, there are significant differences in regulatory environment, size and nature of the geothermal resource, geographical and climatic conditions affecting resource accessibility, available infrastructure for development of the resource and distribution of electricity from it, demand for electricity or process heat, electricity market dynamics, need for energy independence, political, industry and community expectations for development of geothermal resources, land ownership and access issues, competing land uses, cultural values attached to the resource, likely adverse environmental or social effects of development, potential for other uses such as tourism, etc. Each nation has a unique set of needs to be considered in the development of policy regarding geothermal resources, and has a unique existing regulatory framework in which that policy can be developed. Some regulatory frameworks enable the development of workable policy whereas others may have competing lobbies, established mind-sets or entrenched practices that limit the advancement of enabling and equitable regulatory environments. Waikato Regional Council’s policy package for managing the protection and sustainable use of geothermal resources has been recognised world-wide as an example of best practice, and Council staff are in demand for providing advice to government ministers from other nations and their advisors. This has enabled staff to develop some familiarity with the different situations in other countries. This paper compares the New Zealand situation with that of several other countries and draws conclusion about what works for New Zealand, what parts of the New Zealand regulatory framework can be applied elsewhere, what parts would need modification for use elsewhere, and what parts are not applicable elsewhere.