8 Years on: Incremental Impact of Worldwide Implementation of the United Nations Framework Classification for Geothermal Energy Resources

Abstract

From the original publication of the specifications for the application of the United Nations Classification Framework (UNFC) to geothermal energy resources, followed by the October 2022 release of the supplementary specifications, this paper presents case studies that confirm the significant level of global uptake to date. The experience so far shows the importance of taking an international and multi-stakeholder approach, as well as embracing the full spectrum of geothermal energy applications. With organizations such as the International Geothermal Association, the International Renewable Energy Agency, the World Bank Energy Sector Management Assistance Program, Geothermal Rising, the US Department of Energy, the Geothermal Energy Association, the International Energy Agency Geothermal Implementing Agreement and the European Geothermal Energy Council having supported various stages of development and implementation of UNFC for geothermal energy resources, the outlook points to further positive impact.