Development of Geothermal Energy in the Chinese Market

Abstract

Energy shortages have become a major issue in many parts of China since 2003. Frequent use of air conditioners makes power shortages more severe in urban areas. Geothermal energy sources as one kind of sustainable energy are of growing importance in China and have large potential, both for electric power production and for heating and cooling purposes. This paper describes the current situation of energy shortage in China, the national geothermal resource and application, the U.S based heat pump demonstration projects and other international cooperation in China, the geothermal energy market, potential and development policy in China. Although China will rely on coal in the long term, it is reasonable to use geothermal energy to fuel the economic growth especially in coastal regions where coal is not available locally, and to reduce the pollution caused by burning coal. The possibilities of cooperation on project feasibility studies, technical design and training, also the direct investment projects in China and expansion of European products in the Chinese market have been discussed.