Greenhouse gas emissions reduction: Global geothermal catalogue update 2024

Abstract

Geothermal power generation typically (but not always) results in greenhouse gas emissions as a result of these gases being naturally present in geothermal fluids. Globally, there is an increasing focus on reducing naturally occurring emissions from geothermal electricity generation to contribute to wider decarbonization goals and efforts. Several countries have already implemented carbon emissions pricing, generally as a carbon-dioxide equivalent (CO2e) value, or are in the process of considering doing so. Three major factors will increase the focus of operators in reducing emissions: (1) increased direct costs due to carbon pricing, (2) societal pressure from the general public, and (3) investment funds or funding institutions with ESG targets that influence the pricing and availability of funding for both new and existing projects.
This paper provides an updated (to 31 December 2024) catalogue of global geothermal power plants that have meaningful greenhouse gas emissions reduction technologies in place, with details on the methods employed. Additionally geothermal power projects under development with emissions reduction technology, and existing plants undergoing retrofitting of emissions reduction technology are also included in this update.
The authors intend to republish this paper with an updated catalogue regularly, and we encourage feedback from readers to ensure this catalogue is updated accurately.