Comparison of Geothermal Regulation between Chile, Philippines and New Zealand

Abstract

Geothermal projects combine aspects of high-risk exploration activities (as in petroleum sectors) and complex, localized electricity markets. Aligning support policies to the 3 basic dimensions of resource access, electricity market regulation and environmental consenting is vital. This paper studies 3 jurisdictions (Chile-newly developing, Philippines – recently restarting under private sector regulation, New Zealand) with similar public resource ownership – private energy market policies, that have found different regulatory solutions. What lessons can be learnt from these 3 jurisdictions?