The IEA Geothermal Implementing Agreement (GIA) - Advancing into Its Third Term

Abstract

The Implementing Agreement for a Cooperative Programme on Geothermal Research and Technology (GIA) is now beginning its third 5-year term of operation after having very successfully completed its second. The organization recognizes the major challenges that face our world if a sustainable energy future is to be attained, and has developed its new mission accordingly: To promote the sustainable utilization of geothermal energy throughout the world by improving existing technologies, by developing new technologies to render usable the vast and widespread global geothermal resources, by facilitating the transfer of know-how, by providing high quality information and by widely communicating geothermal energy?s strategic, economic and environmental benefits. To help fulfill this mission, the GIA has developed new strategic objectives that will identify and promote policies to stimulate energy technology research, development, demonstration and deployment; enhance development of analytical tools; foster international networking and collaboration; and effectively communicate the key lessons learned. The GIA operates by providing a versatile framework for comprehensive international cooperation in geothermal RD&D under the auspices of the International Energy Agency (IEA). It connects national and industry programmes, with the aim of building specific expertise and enhancing effectiveness through establishing direct cooperative links among geothermal experts in participating countries and industries. The GIA?s current activities are directed principally toward coordination of country member geothermal programmes and assisting with industry member efforts; though, new activities are also initiated and implemented when needs are demonstrated.