Preliminary investigation on the suitable scope of geothermal Life Cycle Assessment

Abstract

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) stands as a critical tool for evaluating the environmental performance of geothermal energy systems, comparing to alternative energy generation and providing information for improvement. However, the geothermal industry does not have a standardized approach to LCA scope and other definitions, resulting in inconsistent methodologies and limited comparability across studies. These inconsistencies pose a challenge for practitioners, regulators, and researchers seeking reliable environmental data.
This paper presents a preliminary investigation into the challenges of defining suitable LCA scope, as well as environmental dimensions for geothermal applications. A literature review of geothermal LCA studies and methodological guidelines highlights variations in system boundaries, data availability, and technology-specific assumptions. To address these gaps, we propose a framework for engaging geothermal stakeholders through targeted surveys and expert consultations, integrating practical perspectives on scope relevance.
As part of an ongoing PhD program, this study seeks to identify critical gaps and outline research pathways that can advance the harmonization of LCA practice in the geothermal industry. The ultimate objective is to build a more consistent and robust foundation for assessing the environmental performance of geothermal energy across technologies and contexts.